Description
This Smoked Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines creamy cheddar and smoked gouda cheeses with a hint of smoked paprika for a rich, savory twist on a classic comfort dish. The macaroni is cooked to perfection, then coated in a smooth cheese sauce and finished by baking or smoking until bubbly and golden, creating a delightful smoky flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Melt Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it does not brown.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder into the melted butter, cooking and stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to form a smooth roux without lumps.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and smoked gouda until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
- Bake or Smoke: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake or smoke at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown, infusing a smoky flavor if smoked.
Notes
- To achieve a rich smoky flavor, use a smoker to cook the macaroni and cheese instead of baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
- You can substitute smoked gouda with smoked mozzarella or another smoked cheese if desired.
- If baking, cover the dish with foil the first 15 minutes to prevent over-browning, then uncover to brown.
- For a crispier top, add a breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter before baking.
- Serve warm immediately for best creaminess and flavor.
