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Crispy Smoked Mac and Cheese

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A comforting mac and cheese recipe with a crispy crust and subtle smoky flavor, made using a cast iron grill skillet for a unique twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked gouda, shredded
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and turns light golden.
  3. Slowly whisk in 3 cups warmed whole milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup smoked gouda, and 1/2 cup parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add 1 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter and optional garlic powder.
  7. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the preheated cast iron grill skillet, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs on top.
  8. Place the skillet on the grill over indirect medium heat (about 350°F). Add wood chips to the smoker box or foil pouch. Cover and smoke for 25-30 minutes.
  9. In the last 5 minutes, move the skillet directly over heat to crisp the topping without burning. Watch closely for a golden crust.
  10. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt quality. Maintain indirect heat to avoid burning the topping. Well-seasoned cast iron skillet helps prevent sticking. You can bake in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes if no grill is available, but it won’t have the smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked mac and cheese, crispy mac and cheese, cast iron skillet, grilled mac and cheese, comfort food, smoky mac and cheese

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/crispy-smoked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-cast-iron-grill-skillet-guide/