smoked macaroni and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best smoked macaroni and cheese recipe

Smoked Macaroni and Cheese

4.9 from 1859 votes

This smoked macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and infused with a delicious smoky flavor from the smoker. It is a simple recipe that uses basic ingredients but delivers a complex, comforting taste.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes.
2Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
4Gradually whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.
6Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Mix well.
7Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch disposable aluminum pan. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
8Place the pan in the smoker. Smoke for 20 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
9Remove from the smoker and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Whisk
9×13 inch disposable aluminum pan
Smoker or grill with smoker box
Wood chips (hickory or apple)
Mixing bowls

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 13g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use a mix of sharp cheddar and Gouda. You can also add cooked bacon or diced jalapenos for extra taste. If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill with a smoker box.

Watch Video Of How Smoked Macaroni and Cheese Works

This smoked macaroni and cheese recipe is a winner every time I make it. It is always a good idea for any occasion and works perfectly for family gatherings because everyone loves the creamy texture and the smoky twist. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Macaroni and Cheese

1. Can I make this smoked macaroni and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish without the breadcrumb topping and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to smoke it, add the breadcrumb topping and increase the smoking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it heats through.

2. What type of wood chips are best for smoking mac and cheese?

Mild woods like apple, cherry, or hickory work well. Apple wood gives a subtle sweet smoke, while hickory offers a stronger flavor. Avoid heavy woods like mesquite as they can overpower the dish.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Any short pasta like shells, rotini, or cavatappi works great. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for al dente.

4. How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out in the smoker?

Cover the pan with foil for the first 15 minutes of smoking to trap moisture. Then remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes to let the top get golden and crispy. Also, make sure your cheese sauce is not too thick before smoking.

5. Can I add meat or vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can mix in cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sauteed mushrooms and onions. Add them to the pasta and cheese sauce before pouring into the pan.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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