Irresistible Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe

There's something magical about the smell of cheese melting away in a smoky haze, and that’s exactly what Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese offers. Imagine creamy, dreamy pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy blanket, kissed by the smoky goodness from the grill. comforting cheesy pasta It’s the dish that can make even the most stoic family member crack a smile when it hits their plate.

This recipe isn’t just comfort food; it’s a memory maker. Picture this: You're outside with friends and family, laughter fills the air, and suddenly someone shouts, “Who brought the smoked mac and cheese?” That’s when you know you've truly arrived at summer's best gathering. Whether it's Memorial Day, a backyard BBQ, or just because it's Tuesday (and you need mac and cheese), this dish promises to deliver an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Ingredients for Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Use about 1 pound of elbow macaroni for that classic mac and cheese texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choose about 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar for robust flavor.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: About 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack adds creaminess and melts beautifully.
• Milk: Use whole milk (or half-and-half) to achieve the creamiest sauce.
• Butter: About half a cup of unsalted butter will enrich your sauce perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need half a cup for thickening your cheese sauce.

For the seasoning:

• Garlic Powder: A teaspoon adds depth to your cheese sauce.
• Smoked Paprika: A teaspoon of this gives that smoky kick we’re going for.

For topping:

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Use one cup for that delightful crunch on top of your mac and cheese.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add in one pound of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare your cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in half a cup of all-purpose flour until smooth. Cook for about two minutes until it turns light golden brown—this will thicken your sauce nicely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

Slowly whisk in four cups of whole milk into your roux until well combined. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly (about five minutes). Stir in three cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and two cups of shredded Monterey Jack until completely melted.

Step 4: Season It Up

Add one teaspoon each of garlic powder and smoked paprika to your cheesy goodness. Stir well! Taste it—if it needs more love (salt or pepper), go ahead!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni with your luscious cheese sauce. Stir until every noodle is coated in cheesy bliss.

Step 6: Smoke It!

Pour everything into a greased baking dish. Top with one cup of panko breadcrumbs for that crunchy topping we all love! Preheat your smoker to about 225°F (107°C) and place the dish inside. Smoke for about an hour until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and serve warm with some extra cheese sprinkled on top if you're feeling indulgent!

Now you have yourself a fabulous Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese recipe that's bound to be the star at any gathering! Enjoy every gooey bite while reminiscing about good times with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by smoking the macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente. While that cooks, melt butter and mix in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened. Finally, combine your smoked pasta with the cheesy sauce for ultimate flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preference; gouda or cheddar works wonderfully. Add some crispy bacon bits for crunch or toss in sautéed jalapeños for a spicy kick. Get creative and make this dish uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Sharing this recipe with friends at last year’s cookout was unforgettable; their delighted faces as they devoured my Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese made all the effort worthwhile! tasty turkey burger recipe.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese?

To prepare Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese, you'll need elbow macaroni, a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella, milk, butter, flour for the roux, and spices such as garlic powder and paprika. Additionally, a good quality smoker will enhance the flavor. Don't forget to have some breadcrumbs on hand for that crunchy topping! Using high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference in the final dish.

How long does it take to smoke mac and cheese?

Smoking mac and cheese typically takes around two hours. The key is to maintain a low temperature of about 225°F to 250°F in your smoker. This allows the noodles to cook gently while absorbing that delicious smoky flavor. Make sure to check for doneness; the cheese should melt beautifully without becoming too rubbery.

Can I make Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Simply assemble your dish without smoking it first, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before smoking. perfect burgers for grilling When you're ready to serve, just place it in the smoker as directed. This option is perfect for busy hosts wanting to enjoy their time at gatherings.

What sides pair well with smoked mac and cheese?

Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with various sides. Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add freshness, while coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast. For heartier options, consider BBQ ribs or smoked brisket to complement the creamy texture of the mac and cheese. A light salad can also balance out the richness of your main dish.

Conclusion for Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese :

In summary, Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic favorite that brings everyone together at gatherings. By using quality ingredients and following proper smoking techniques, you can create a creamy dish with rich flavors that will impress your guests. delicious party dip Whether you prepare it ahead or serve it fresh off the smoker, this recipe is sure to become a holiday staple that everyone will love!

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Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese

Print Recipe

Memorial Day Smoked Mac and Cheese is a creamy, smoky twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for any gathering. This indulgent dish features al dente elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, enhanced by delightful smoky flavors from the grill. Topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, it's sure to impress family and friends at your next barbecue or casual dinner. Easy to prepare, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 4 cups whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux; cook until golden brown.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until slightly thickened, then stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted.
4. Season the cheese sauce with garlic powder and smoked paprika; adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce until well-coated.
6. Pour into a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and smoke at 225°F for about an hour until bubbly.

• Author: Selena
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. For extra texture and spice, consider adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed jalapeños. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of milk.