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Smoked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Smoked Mac and Cheese. Infused with a rich, smoky flavor, this creamy dish combines tender pasta and a blend of cheeses for a mouthwatering experience. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its delightful aroma and cheesy goodness.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Optional: cooked bacon or sautéed onions

Instructions

  1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux until golden brown (about 1 minute). Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in sharp and mild cheddar cheese along with smoked paprika until melted.
  3. Mix cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in a large bowl until evenly coated.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Author: Stefanie Weber
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cream cheese for extra richness. For added crunch, swap panko for regular breadcrumbs or add crispy fried onions on top before baking.