Hey there, fellow foodies! Today, I will share a super easy and tasty recipe for smoked macaroni and cheese. This dish is perfect for impressing your friends and family; the best part is that you don’t need to boil the macaroni! Let’s get started!
No-Boil Smoked Macaroni and Cheese
One of the main joys of this recipe lies in its simplicity – the ability to effortlessly combine all the ingredients in a single pan and let it cook with minimal intervention.
As smokers are known for their slow and low cooking style, many slow cooker recipes can be easily adapted for a smoker. In fact, this particular recipe is a delightful variation of a slow cooker classic that my family has cherished for years.
As we delve into the instructions for this delectable dish, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of keeping the macaroni submerged during the initial stages of the cooking process. Submerging the macaroni ensures that each macaroni piece achieves a uniformly soft texture.
However, if you enjoy those delightful crispy edges, feel free to leave a small portion of the macaroni exposed. The gentle infusion of smoke will add a lovely snap to those particular bites, changing the texture and enhancing the flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of butter (cut into 8 pieces)
- 1 heaping cup of macaroni
- 1 cup of milk
- ¼ teaspoon of pepper
- 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- Optional: 4 ounces of cream cheese (for extra creamy results)
- Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika
- Optional: a pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat your smoker.
- Spray a pan with cooking spray and place the butter pieces in the pan.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the pan in the order listed above. There’s no need to stir at the start.
- Smoke the macaroni and cheese for 2 hours at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Stir every 30 minutes to make sure everything is evenly cooked.
- For a crispy top, use a brulé torch to lightly brown the surface or place the pan under the broiler for 2 minutes.
Tips For Smoked Macaroni and Cheese
To begin with, selecting the appropriate pasta is of utmost importance. Opt for small shapes, such as elbows or shells, as they tend to cook more evenly without boiling.
Furthermore, utilizing high-quality cheese that effortlessly melts and possesses a rich flavor is crucial. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere works wonders in providing both creaminess and depth of taste.
Moreover, adding a touch of mustard or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile of the cheese sauce. It is also imperative to meticulously follow the recipe instructions, including the recommended cooking time, as baking durations may vary depending on your oven.
Lastly, allowing the macaroni and cheese to rest for a few minutes after baking grants it the necessary time to set and attain that desired creamy texture. Adhering to these guidelines can effortlessly create a delectable, no-boil macaroni and cheese that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Final Thoughts
Remember, you can always customize this recipe to your liking. Feel free to add your favorite smoked meat, like pulled pork, to make it even more delicious.
Just make sure to keep the macaroni and milk ratio the same. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your masterpiece of smoked macaroni and cheese as a side dish for four people or a main course for two!
…
