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Smoked Mac and Cheese

Smoked Mac and Cheese

This rich and creamy smoked mac and cheese features a crisp panko topping and the perfect kiss of smoke flavor, making it an unforgettable BBQ side dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: BBQ, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 837
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni noodles cooked al dente
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp ground mustard powder
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups smoked gouda cheese shredded
Breadcrumb Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 2 tbsp Hey Grill Hey Sweet Rub

Equipment

  • 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet
  • Smoker

Method
 

  1. Cook macaroni noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat smoker to 225°F using a mild hardwood like cherry or apple.
  3. In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt butter, then whisk in flour and mustard powder to form a roux.
  4. Whisk in half and half, bring to boil, then reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Add cheddar and gouda cheese until melted.
  5. Turn off heat and fold in cooked noodles until coated in sauce.
  6. In a bowl, combine melted butter, sweet rub, and panko. Sprinkle over mac and cheese.
  7. Smoke mac and cheese for 1 hour. Serve warm and melty!

Notes

Use a mild wood and keep the smoker under 225°F for best results. Add extras like bacon or green chiles for flavor twists. Smoked mac tastes best fresh but can be reheated if needed.