Introduction
Hi, I’m Olivia! 😊 Let’s create something delicious today—Smoked Mac and Cheese! 🍴✨ Every meal is better when made with love, and this smoky, cheesy goodness is no exception. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, I’m sure you’ll enjoy adding that perfect smoky flavor to your mac and cheese. 🧀🔥
Smoked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or potlucks. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with irresistible smoky flavor. I hope this recipe brings some extra joy to your kitchen and becomes a new favorite for you and your loved ones! 💛 Happy cooking!
Table of Contents
Submitted by Chef Olivia
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
Servings: 6
Yield: 1 casserole dish
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups
- Gouda cheese (shredded): 1 cup
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Butter: 4 tbsp
- Breadcrumbs: ½ cup
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your smoker to 225°F and prepare the wood chips (hickory or applewood work best).
Step 2: Cook the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in heavy cream and gradually add the shredded cheeses. Mix until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
Step 4: Combine the macaroni and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
Step 6: Place the dish in the smoker and cook for 1 hour. Let the smoky flavors infuse while the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
Cook’s Note:
For extra smoky flavor, consider mixing smoked cheddar with regular cheddar. You can also add cooked bacon or jalapeños for a bold twist.
Serving and Storing Smoked Mac and Cheese
Serving Suggestions: Pair your smoked mac and cheese with BBQ ribs, smoked chicken, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freezing Tips: If you want to freeze smoked mac and cheese, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
The Story Behind Smoked Mac and Cheese
Every great recipe has a story, and smoked mac and cheese is no exception. It all began one summer evening at a backyard barbecue. Chef Olivia, known among friends and family for her creative takes on classic dishes, was experimenting with her smoker. She wanted to create a dish that would capture the smoky aroma of a summer grill while delivering the creamy comfort everyone loves.
The idea struck as she looked at a bowl of mac and cheese—a childhood favorite that had been a staple at family dinners. What if she combined the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the deep, smoky flavor of the grill?
Olivia went to work, blending sharp cheddar and creamy Gouda, adding just a hint of smoked paprika for an extra kick. She cooked the macaroni until perfectly al dente, folded it into the cheese sauce, and sprinkled breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish. Into the smoker it went, as the warm, fragrant scent of hickory filled the air.
When the dish emerged, golden and bubbling with smoky perfection, it was an instant hit. Her friends couldn’t stop raving about the bold twist on a classic comfort food. It wasn’t long before smoked mac and cheese became a family favorite, appearing at BBQs, potlucks, and even holiday dinners.
Today, Olivia shares this recipe with you, hoping it brings the same joy to your table. Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout or a cozy night in, smoked mac and cheese is more than a dish—it’s a celebration of comfort, creativity, and the magic of smoky flavors.