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Creamy smoked mac and cheese in skillet

Smoked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Guide to Creamy, Smoky Perfection


  • Author: MALAK
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

The ultimate comfort food gets a smoky BBQ upgrade with this rich, creamy, and flavor-packed smoked mac and cheese recipe.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (16 oz) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil elbow macaroni to al dente, drain, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk into a roux.
  3. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking until thickened.
  4. Turn off heat and stir in cream cheese, cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  6. Combine pasta and cheese sauce in a disposable aluminum tray or cast-iron skillet.
  7. Top with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle paprika if using.
  8. Preheat your smoker to 225°F using applewood or hickory pellets.
  9. Place tray in smoker uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, rotating halfway through.
  10. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for best melt. For added flavor, mix in bacon, jalapeños, or brisket before smoking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Smoker
  • Cuisine: American BBQ

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 710mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: smoked mac and cheese, BBQ sides, pellet grill recipes, gouda mac and cheese