smoker mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
smoker mac and cheese recipe
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The Best smoker mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite smoker mac and cheese recipe. As a busy mom, I’m always looking for ways to make my family’s favorite dishes easier to prepare and more delicious.

Smoker mac and cheese is one of those recipes that never fails to impress, and it’s become a staple in our household. My kids love it when I make it for them, and I love how easy it is to customize the recipe to suit their tastes.

Whether we’re having a family dinner or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is always a hit. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make ahead of time, which makes it perfect for busy households like mine.

Smoker Mac and Cheese

Smoker Mac and Cheese

4.9 from 1743 votes

Creamy mac and cheese with a smoky flavor, cooked low and slow on a smoker. The cheese sauce is rich and the top gets a crispy, golden crust.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Cheese Sauce

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your smoker to 225°F using hickory or apple wood chips for a mild smoky flavor.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes.
4Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter.
6Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
7Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
8Add the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, and continue to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
9Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
10Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
11Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring until all the pasta is evenly coated.
12Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
13In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the panko breadcrumbs.
14Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
15Place the baking dish in the preheated smoker and cook for 45 minutes.
16The top should be golden brown and the edges bubbly when done.
17Remove the dish from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
18The cheese sauce will set slightly for a creamy texture.

🔧Equipment

Smoker
Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Wood chips (hickory or apple)
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For extra smokiness, add 1/2 cup of smoked gouda to the cheese sauce. You can also top with cooked bacon bits before smoking.

Watch Video Of How Smoker Mac and Cheese Works

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight meal.

The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make ahead of time, so you can prep it early in the day or even freeze it for later use.

I love how customizable this recipe is too – my kids have different tastes when it comes to cheese and pasta, so I can easily adjust the recipe to suit their preferences.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Smoker Mac and Cheese

Q: What is smoker mac and cheese?

Smoker mac and cheese is a variation of the classic comfort food dish that uses a smoker to give the cheese a rich, deep flavor. It’s made with pasta, cheese sauce, and other ingredients that are all smoked together to create a unique taste experience.

Q: How do you make smoker mac and cheese?

To make smoker mac and cheese, you’ll need some basic ingredients like pasta, cheese, and milk. You’ll also need a smoker or a charcoal grill to give the dish its signature flavor. Simply cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then mix it with the cheese sauce and other ingredients before smoking them together.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese in this recipe. Some people prefer a sharper cheddar or a milder mozzarella, while others like to mix different cheeses together for a unique flavor. Experiment with different cheeses until you find one that you enjoy.

Q: How long does it take to smoke mac and cheese?

The smoking time will depend on your preference for how strong you want the flavor to be. Generally, it takes around 30 minutes to an hour to smoke the mac and cheese, but this can vary depending on your smoker or grill.

Q: Can I reheat smoker mac and cheese?

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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