Smoked Mac and Cheese 🧀 w/ @yoeats23

Ingredients

• 12 oz Elbow Macaroni (uncooked)
• 8 oz Smoked Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 4 oz Smoked Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• 3 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
• 3 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour (for roux)
• 2 cup Whole Milk (room temperature)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (for extra richness)
• 1 tsp Liquid Smoke (adds smoky depth)
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
• 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (for topping, toasted with butter)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain in a colander and set aside.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: boiling

2. Make the Roux

   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until lightly golden.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: medium

3. Create the Cheese Sauce

   Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and add the shredded smoked cheddar and smoked mozzarella, stirring until fully melted. Stir in liquid smoke, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

   Time: PT7M

   Temperature: low

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

   Time: PT2M

5. Prepare Topping

   In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Set aside.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: medium

6. Assemble and Bake

   Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a pre‑heated oven at 375°F for 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden.

   Time: PT15M

   Temperature: 375°F

7. Rest and Serve

   Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes portioning easier.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

22g

Carbohydrates

48g

Fat

35g

Fiber

2g