Smoked Macaroni and Cheese with Steak and Shrimp Recipe

Name: smoked macaroni and cheese
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 8 ounces elbow macaroni; – 1/2 cup unsalted butter for the roux and richness in the sauce; – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for thickens the cheese sauce; – 1 teaspoon mustard powder adds depth and subtle sharpness to the roux; – 2 cups half-and-half creates a smooth, rich base for the cheese sauce; – 4 ounces cream cheese enhances creaminess and thickens the sauce; – 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese delivers sharp flavor and meltability; – 1 1/2 cups shredded gouda cheese adds smoky, buttery notes; – 1 cup panko bread crumbs provides a crispy, golden crust; – 1/4 cup melted butter ensures the topping browns evenly; – 2 tablespoons sweet rub or seasoning adds additional flavor complexity

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Why You’ll Love This smoked macaroni and cheese

Ease of preparation: This smoked macaroni and cheese recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can have a comforting, smoky dish ready in no time, suitable for all cooking skill levels.
Health benefits: Combining quality cheeses and half-and-half, this dish offers a good source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. When using moderate portions and optionally substituting plant-based or lighter dairy alternatives, it fits well within balanced diets while satisfying hearty comfort food cravings.
Versatility: The recipe adapts effortlessly to various dietary needs whether vegan with plant-based cheeses, gluten-free using alternative pastas, or reduced-calorie by substituting lighter ingredients. This flexibility makes smoked macaroni and cheese a popular choice for diverse preferences.
Distinctive flavor: The infusion of mild smoky notes, courtesy of backyard smoking using fruitwoods like cherry or apple, brings a rich depth to the classic creamy mac and cheese. The crisp panko breadcrumb topping adds texture, elevating the traditional comfort food into a uniquely delicious experience.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This smoked macaroni and cheese
2. Essential Ingredients for smoked macaroni and cheese
3. How to Prepare the Perfect smoked macaroni and cheese: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your smoked macaroni and cheese
5. Mastering smoked macaroni and cheese: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store smoked macaroni and cheese: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About smoked macaroni and cheese
8. smoked macaroni and cheese

Essential Ingredients for smoked macaroni and cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni (cooked al dente) – provides the perfect pasta base with the right bite
1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter – essential for the roux and richness in the sauce
1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour – thickens the cheese sauce for a creamy texture
1 teaspoon mustard powder – adds depth and subtle sharpness to the roux
2 cups (480 ml) half-and-half – creates a smooth, rich base for the cheese sauce
4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese – enhances creaminess and thickens the sauce
3 cups (about 340 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese – delivers sharp flavor and meltability
1 1/2 cups (about 170 grams) shredded gouda cheese – adds smoky, buttery notes
Breadcrumb topping:

1 cup (90 grams) panko bread crumbs – provides a crispy, golden crust
1/4 cup (57 grams) melted butter – ensures the topping browns evenly
2 tablespoons (about 15 grams) sweet rub or seasoning (optional) – adds additional flavor complexity

Special Dietary Options:

Vegan: Use plant-based cheese alternatives such as cashew cheese and substitute half-and-half with almond or soy milk.
Gluten-free: Replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta varieties and ensure panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free or omit topping.
Low-calorie: Opt for reduced-fat cheese, use skim milk instead of half-and-half, and reduce butter amounts to lighten the dish.

How to Prepare the Perfect smoked macaroni and cheese: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Cook the macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Properly cooked pasta ensures the perfect texture for the creamy sauce.

Second Step: Preheat the smoker

Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using mild hardwoods such as cherry, apple, maple, or pecan for a subtle smoky flavor that complements the cheese without overpowering it.

Third Step: Make the roux and cheese sauce

In a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon mustard powder until smooth, cooking for a couple of minutes to develop flavor and remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in 2 cups half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly, then reduce heat.

Fourth Step: Add cheeses

Blend in 4 ounces cream cheese, whisking until smooth and fully melted. Stir in 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 1/2 cups shredded gouda cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Fifth Step: Combine pasta and sauce

Remove skillet from heat. Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing gently but thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated.

Sixth Step: Prepare breadcrumb topping

In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko bread crumbs, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sweet rub seasoning if using. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese in the skillet to form a crisp topping.

Seventh Step: Smoke the dish

Place the skillet uncovered inside the preheated smoker. Smoke for about 1 hour, allowing the smoky flavor to infuse and the breadcrumb topping to become golden and crisp. For a stronger smoky flavor, extend time up to 2 hours but monitor to prevent drying.

Final Step: Serve and enjoy

Remove from smoker and let cool slightly. Serve warm directly from the skillet. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled steak or shrimp as part of a comfort food feast. For dietary adaptations, use plant-based cheeses and gluten-free pasta or lighter dairy alternatives in the sauce.

Tip: Maintaining the smoker temperature under 225°F is key to keeping the macaroni creamy and preventing drying out.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your smoked macaroni and cheese

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

For vegan diets, swap cheddar and gouda with plant-based cheese alternatives like cashew or coconut-based cheeses.
Use gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, chickpea, or lentils instead of traditional elbow macaroni for gluten-intolerant individuals.
Replace half-and-half with almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free options.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add smoked mushrooms or caramelized onions in the cheese sauce for extra smoky depth and texture.
Experiment with smoked spices such as chipotle powder, smoked sea salt, or paprika for added layers of flavor.
Use dairy-free cream sauces or pureed roasted vegetables like butternut squash to enhance creaminess and reduce calories.

Mastering smoked macaroni and cheese: Advanced Tips and Variations

Pro cooking techniques: Use a blend of cheeses with different melt points to achieve a perfectly gooey yet firm texture. Try double smoking or alternating wood chips like hickory with fruitwoods for complex, layered smoky flavors.
Flavor variations: Add ingredients like smoked bacon bits, roasted garlic, or jalapeños to introduce heat and umami. Consider alternative cheese options such as smoked gouda or fontina for a richer profile.
Presentation tips: Serve macaroni and cheese in individual cast iron ramekins topped with breadcrumb crusts for an elegant, crispy finish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and freshness.
Make-ahead options: Prepare the sauce and pasta base in advance; refrigerate and reheat with smoking just before serving for convenience without compromising flavor.

How to Store smoked macaroni and cheese: Best Practices

Storage Method	Guidelines	Duration
Refrigeration	Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor.	3-4 days
Freezing	Freeze portions in suitable containers; thaw overnight before reheating to preserve creaminess.	1-2 months
Reheating	Reheat gently in oven or on stovetop at low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.	As needed
Meal prep considerations	Make in batches, portion accordingly, and use airtight packaging to save time and reduce waste.	Varies

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About smoked macaroni and cheese

What temperature and wood should I use to smoke macaroni and cheese?

Preheat your smoker to 225°F for the best results. Use mild fruitwoods like cherry or apple, which add a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the creamy cheese. This low temperature allows the mac and cheese to heat evenly and absorb smoke over about one hour.

How long should smoked macaroni and cheese stay in the smoker?

Smoking mac and cheese typically takes about 1 hour at 225°F. If you prefer a stronger smoky taste, you can extend the time up to 2 hours, but be careful not to dry it out. Check the texture to ensure it remains creamy and smooth.

Can I prepare smoked mac and cheese ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can make smoked mac and cheese a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the smoker or oven before serving to revive the smoky flavors and creamy texture.

Should smoked macaroni and cheese be covered while smoking?

It’s best to smoke your macaroni and cheese uncovered. Smoking uncovered allows the smoke to directly infuse the dish and helps form a slight crust on top, adding a pleasant texture contrast. Foil can be used if you want to retain moisture but may reduce smoke exposure.

How do I store and reheat leftover smoked mac and cheese?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or smoker at a low temperature (around 300°F) until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore creaminess during reheating.

1 thought on “Smoked Macaroni and Cheese with Steak and Shrimp for a Bold Comfort Food Twist”

Clara Sanchez

July 15, 2025 at 2:47 am

This was a hit at our family BBQ last weekend! I used a mix of cheddar and gouda for an extra gooey texture, and it worked perfectly. Thanks for the great idea. 😊

★★★★★

Smoked Macaroni and Cheese with Steak and Shrimp for a Bold Comfort Food Twist