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Creamy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crunchy Bread Crumb Topping Made Easy

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A creamy, rich mac and cheese with a subtle smoky flavor and a crunchy bread crumb topping that adds perfect texture contrast. This comforting dish is quick, easy, and perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked gouda, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until smooth and slightly nutty.
  3. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of warmed whole milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer and stir frequently until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded smoked gouda until melted and smooth. Add 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crunchy. (Optional: Place in smoker at 225°F for 20-30 minutes before adding topping and finishing in oven.)
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente holds up better when baked. Warm milk before adding to avoid lumps. Mix bread crumbs with melted butter and smoked paprika for best crunchy topping. If using a smoker, keep temperature low to avoid drying pasta. For gluten-free, substitute flour and bread crumbs accordingly. Adding a pinch of liquid smoke can enhance smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, crunchy bread crumb topping, comfort food, easy mac and cheese, smoky cheese recipe

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