Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Smoked mac and cheese oozing with melted cheese, featuring a perfect blend of smoky and savory flavors.

Indulge in the Comfort of Smoked Mac and Cheese – A Creamy, Flavorful Delight


  • Author: Louisa
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings

Description

This Smoked Mac and Cheese recipe is a game-changer, featuring a creamy cheese sauce infused with smoky flavors. Whether cooked on a smoker or in the oven with smoked cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone star at the dinner table.


Ingredients

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • Elbow macaroni: 1 lb (cooked al dente)
  • Butter: 4 tbsp
  • All-purpose flour: 4 tbsp
  • Whole milk: 3 cups
  • Heavy cream: 1 cup
  • Cheddar cheese: 2 cups, shredded (preferably smoked cheddar)
  • Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
  • Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened

Seasoning:

  • Salt: 1 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
  • Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder: 1 tsp
  • Cayenne pepper: 1/4 tsp (optional for heat)

For Topping:

  • Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup
  • Butter: 2 tbsp, melted
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
    • Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
  • Season the Sauce:

    • Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Combine Pasta and Sauce:

    • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until fully coated.
  • Prepare the Topping:

    • In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and smoked paprika.
  • Smoke the Mac and Cheese:

    • Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
    • Transfer the mac and cheese to a cast-iron skillet or aluminum pan. Spread the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
    • Place the skillet on the smoker and smoke for 1 hour, or until the top is golden and crispy.
  • Serve:

    • Remove from the smoker and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • No Smoker? Use smoked cheese in the sauce or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before smoking.
  • Protein Additions: Add smoked sausage, bacon, or pulled pork for extra heartiness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Smoked mac and cheese, smoked cheese recipe, barbecue mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, smoked pasta dish, comfort food