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Best Easy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: Best Easy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 275 g
Ingredients: elbow macaroni 16 oz; sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 3 cups; monterey jack cheese, shredded 1 cup; whole milk 2 cups; half-and-half 1 cup; unsalted butter 4 tbsp; cream cheese 4 oz; kosher salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.5 tsp; smoked paprika 1 tsp; garlic powder 0.5 tsp; panko breadcrumbs 1 cup

Creamy smoked mac and cheese with a golden, smoky crust elevates classic comfort food to barbecue perfection. This family-favorite vegetarian side is a must-have at any cookout.

Cook 65 min Difficulty NORMAL 520 kcal

#vegetarian #mediterranean

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

elbow macaroni 16 oz
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 3 cups
monterey jack cheese, shredded 1 cup
whole milk 2 cups
half-and-half 1 cup
unsalted butter 4 tbsp
cream cheese 4 oz

Seasonings/Sauce

kosher salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.5 tsp
smoked paprika 1 tsp
garlic powder 0.5 tsp
panko breadcrumbs 1 cup

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 44 g 33%

Protein 19 g 15%

Fat 29 g 52%

Serving size 275g

Cooking steps

1

Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Grease a 9x13-inch aluminum pan for the mac and cheese.
2

Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for 1 minute less than package directions, then drain well to prevent mushiness.
3

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add milk, half-and-half, and cream cheese, whisking until fully combined and smooth.
4

Lower heat to medium-low and stir in cheddar, Monterey Jack, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Once cheese is mostly melted, fold in drained macaroni.
5

Pour mac and cheese into the prepared pan. Top evenly with panko breadcrumbs. Place pan uncovered in the smoker and smoke for 45–60 minutes, until golden and lightly crisped on top. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient that gives smoked mac and cheese its signature flavor?

The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and smoked paprika defines the rich, creamy, and smoky character of this dish. The cheese blend delivers depth and richness, while the smoked paprika enhances both color and a subtle, barbecue-inspired smokiness.

Q. How can I avoid overcooking the macaroni and ensure a perfect texture?

To prevent mushy pasta, boil the macaroni for 1 minute less than the package says. This keeps it slightly firm, so it won't become overdone while absorbing the cheese sauce and smoke in the smoker.

Q. What's the best way to get a golden, crunchy topping?

Sprinkling panko breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before placing it uncovered in the smoker creates a golden, crunchy crust. The indirect heat and smoke help the panko brown without burning.

Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?

Each serving provides approximately 520 kcal, with 19 grams of protein. Carbohydrates are 44 grams per serving, and fat is 29 grams, making it a hearty, satisfying side. The protein-to-carb ratio is about 0.43.

Best Easy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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