Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni – These little curved pasta pieces are the perfect vehicle for holding all that rich, cheesy goodness. They’re hearty, yet soft, and catch all the creamy sauce, making every bite a savory experience.
- Smoked Gouda – Now, this is where the magic happens. Smoked gouda adds a deep, smoky flavor that takes the dish to the next level. Its creamy texture blends beautifully with the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
- Cheddar Cheese – Cheddar is the backbone of any mac and cheese. It provides a sharp, tangy kick that balances the richness of the gouda. The two cheeses complement each other perfectly for a flavor explosion.
- Heavy Cream – This is what makes the sauce oh-so-creamy. It gives the dish a velvety texture and helps to bind the cheese together, making the sauce extra luscious.
Instructions
- Boil the pasta – Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. This ensures your pasta will hold its shape and not turn mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Make the cheese sauce – While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a pan. Then, whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once smooth, add in the smoked gouda and cheddar, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce – Once the pasta is done, drain it and combine it with the rich cheese sauce. Make sure the sauce fully coats each piece of pasta for maximum cheesy goodness.
- Smoke the dish – For that smoky kick, transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish. Place it in a smoker or a grill with indirect heat. Smoke it for 30 minutes to infuse that delicious smoky flavor.
- Serve and enjoy – Once the mac and cheese is beautifully smoked, take it out of the smoker, give it a quick stir, and it’s ready to serve. The smoky aroma will have everyone coming to the table in anticipation.
Notes
Serving
This recipe serves 6 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. Serve it on its own for a comforting meal, or pair it with a fresh side salad for a more balanced spread. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can serve it in a sandwich or alongside crispy bread.
For a fun twist, try sprinkling some fresh herbs on top, like parsley or thyme, or adding a dash of paprika for a smoky, spicy finish.
Tips and Hacks
To take your smoked mac and cheese to the next level, here are some tips and hacks:
- Crispy topping – For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and broil for a few minutes. The crunchy topping pairs beautifully with the creamy interior.
- Add veggies – If you’re looking for a little extra flavor, toss in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach. These add color and a burst of freshness.
- Make it ahead – This dish can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare the mac and cheese, store it in the fridge, and then reheat it in the oven before serving.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the mac and cheese for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
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