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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.
Servings 8 people
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes

Equipment

  • 12-inch Cast Iron Skillet
  • Smoker

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

Instructions

  • Cook macaroni noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Preheat smoker to 225°F using a mild hardwood like cherry or apple.
  • In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt butter, then whisk in flour and mustard powder to form a roux.
  • 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.
  • Turn off heat and fold in cooked noodles until coated in sauce.
  • In a bowl, combine melted butter, sweet rub, and panko. Sprinkle over mac and cheese.
  • 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.
Calories: 837kcal
Course: BBQ, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bbq side, comfort food, smoked mac and cheese, smoker recipes