Dadgum That's Good: Smoked Mac & Cheese

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess

smoked gouda

🥗Healthier: regular gouda

💰Cheaper: cheddar

Regular gouda is less expensive and still provides a creamy texture.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier, while margarine is a budget-friendly option.

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheddar lowers calories, while processed cheese is often cheaper.

Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until bubbly.

Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.

Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Add cheddar cheese and smoked gouda, stirring until fully melted and combined.

Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper; mix well.

Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with bread crumbs.

Smoke in a preheated smoker at 225°F for 30-45 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Remove from smoker and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens