Go Back
+ servings

Ultimate Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Panko Crust

A creamy, smoke-infused mac and cheese topped with a buttery, golden panko crust. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for barbecues, holidays, or any comfort food craving.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dinner, Holidays, Pasta, Side Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 695

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese Base
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup monterey jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
Panko Topping
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. Preheat your smoker to 225 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch aluminum baking pan with cooking spray.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar, smoked gouda, and monterey jack cheeses, along with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Assemble and Smoke
  1. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
  3. Place the pan in the preheated smoker. Cook for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
  4. Remove from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly for easier serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 695kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 28gFat: 44gSaturated Fat: 26gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 950mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8g

Notes

For a milder smoke flavor, use only smoked gouda and skip the smoked paprika. You can substitute the panko with crushed buttery crackers or sourdough breadcrumbs for a California twist. To make ahead, assemble the dish without the topping, refrigerate, then add topping and smoke just before serving. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat well in a 350°F oven. Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the smoker. Serve alongside grilled tri-tip or a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!