Description
Elevate your mac and cheese with smoky flavors in this Ultimate Smoked Mac and Cheese recipe. Perfect for BBQ lovers, this creamy, cheesy dish is ideal for any gathering or BBQ feast!
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni – 1 lb
- Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp
- All-purpose flour – 4 tbsp
- Whole milk – 2 cups
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded
- Smoked cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Cream cheese – 4 oz
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Dijon mustard – 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Onion powder – 1 tsp
- Paprika – 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Hot sauce (optional) – a few dashes
- Bread crumbs – 1/2 cup (for topping)
- Fresh parsley – for garnish
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory, applewood, or cherry wood)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Add cheeses (sharp cheddar, smoked cheddar, mozzarella, cream cheese, parmesan), stirring until melted and smooth. Season with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
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Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Stir cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well-coated.
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Prepare for Smoking: Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F, using wood chips for smoke. Transfer the mac and cheese to a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan.
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Smoke the Mac and Cheese: Place the pan in the smoker for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring halfway through. Add breadcrumbs during the last 10 minutes for crunch.
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Garnish and Serve: Once smoked and golden, remove from the smoker. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Add BBQ Meat: Pulled pork, smoked sausage, or brisket can be mixed in.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese alternatives.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or extra hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for gouda, fontina, or Monterey Jack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Smoking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, bbq
Keywords: Smoked Mac and Cheese, BBQ Mac and Cheese, Smoky Mac and Cheese, Ultimate Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food Recipes