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Crispy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe Perfect for Dinner

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This smoked mac and cheese recipe combines creamy cheese sauce, smoky flavor, and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a decadent dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If using a grill, set it up for indirect heat and add wood chips for smoking.
  2. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens—about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar, smoked Gouda, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If using liquid smoke, add a small amount here.
  7. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  8. In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
  9. Place the dish in your smoker and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  10. Remove from the smoker and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta to keep it from becoming mushy after baking.’, ‘Shred your own cheese for a smoother sauce.’, ‘Keep stirring the sauce to prevent lumps.’, ‘Watch the breadcrumbs closely to avoid burning.’, ‘Experiment with different wood chips for unique smoky flavors.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked mac and cheese, crispy topping, comfort food, cheesy recipe, family dinner, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-smoked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-perfect-for-dinner/