How to Make Smoked Mac and Cheese on a Traeger Grill

Smoked mac and cheese is a culinary delight that elevates the traditional comfort food to a new level of flavor sophistication. By infusing natural wood smoke into the cheese and baking the dish on a grill, this recipe delivers a rich, smoky essence that transforms every bite. Here’s how to achieve the ultimate smoked mac and cheese experience.

What Is Smoked Mac and Cheese?

Smoked mac and cheese involves two key steps that distinguish it from the homemade variety:

1. Smoking the Cheese: The cheese is smoked before being incorporated into the sauce.
2. Grill Baking: The assembled dish is baked on a grill, enhancing it with additional smoky flavors.

Choosing the Right Cheese

Cheddar cheese is ideal for smoked mac and cheese due to its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. Mild cheeses like cheddar absorb the smoke flavor well, while stronger cheeses can overpower it. For best results, grate the cheese before smoking to ensure even flavor distribution.

Making the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The secret to creamy smoked mac and cheese lies in the sauce, a variation of the classic French Mornay sauce. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Ingredients:

   • 5 tablespoons butter
   • 5 tablespoons flour
   • 2½ cups milk or half-and-half
   • 8 ounces grated smoked cheese

2. Steps:

   • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until foamy.
   • Whisk in the flour until the mixture is golden brown.
   • Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the smoked cheese until melted.

Assembling and Smoking the Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions, but drain 2 minutes early to avoid overcooking on the grill.
2. Mix and Match: Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce. For added flavor, mix in smoked meats like brisket or bacon, or vegetables like grilled peppers.
3. Toppings: Top with breadcrumbs, panko, or crumbled crackers for a crunchy texture.

Smoking Process

• Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to 350°F.
• Bake: Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and bake on the grill for 30 minutes.

Best Wood for Smoking

Opt for strong-flavored woods like hickory to impart a robust smoky taste to the mac and cheese, as the short smoking time requires a potent wood flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your smoked mac and cheese with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Smoked mac and cheese is more than just a meal; it's an experience that combines classic comfort with gourmet flair. By carefully selecting your ingredients and mastering the smoking process, you can create a dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy the smoky, cheesy goodness with every bite!