Description
A comforting dish of smoked mac and cheese that combines creamy cheese sauce with pasta and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup smoked gouda cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Once the mixture thickens, add the cheddar and gouda cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix until well combined.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and smoke for about 30 minutes at 225°F for added flavor.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: smoked mac and cheese, comfort food, easy recipes, pasta dishes