Rich and Smoky Protein-Packed Mac and Cheese

If you’re a fan of mac and cheese, get ready to experience a smoky twist on the classic dish! This smoked protein mac and cheese brings together creamy cottage cheese, sharp cheddar, and a rich BBQ flavor that elevates comfort food to a whole new level. Perfectly satisfying on its own or as a hearty side, this dish is about to become your new favorite.

Imagine digging into a bowl of macaroni that’s not only creamy and cheesy but also infused with that irresistible smoky flavor from the smoker. This recipe is packed with protein, making it a filling option for any meal. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding in your favorite smoked proteins or veggies to make it even more delicious.

Creating the Perfect Smoky Mac and Cheese

The rich flavors of smoked protein mac and cheese will bring a delightful twist to your traditional macaroni experience. This dish combines the creaminess of cottage cheese with the sharpness of cheddar, enhanced by the alluring smoky notes from the smoker.

Positioned in a rustic cast iron skillet, this mac and cheese not only pleases the palate but also makes for a stunning presentation.

Ingredients and Their Importance

The key to this dish lies in its simple yet robust ingredients. Elbow macaroni serves as the perfect base, providing a familiar and comforting texture.

Cottage cheese and shredded cheddar blend seamlessly to create a luscious sauce that coats every piece of macaroni.

Optional protein powder brings an additional protein boost, making this dish a filling option for any meal.

Preparation Steps for Smoky Goodness

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni until it reaches the ideal al dente texture.

Meanwhile, blend cottage cheese, cheddar, and milk to form a creamy sauce that will envelop the pasta.

Heat the sauce gently to achieve the desired thickness before combining it with the cooked macaroni.

Smoking Technique for Enhanced Flavor

Preheating the smoker is essential to ensure that the mac and cheese is infused with that sought-after smoky flavor.

Using wood chips or pellets like apple or cherry adds a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese beautifully.

Transfer the mac and cheese to the cast iron skillet and top it with extra cheese or a sprinkle of paprika before placing it in the smoker.

Serving Suggestions

Once the mac and cheese is smokily perfected and has a golden, bubbling top, it’s time to serve.

Pair it with smoked chicken and colorful veggies for a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.

This setup creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

This smoky mac and cheese is versatile and can easily be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables.

Its protein-packed nature makes it a nourishing option that still feels indulgent, merging comfort and nutrition in every bite.

Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side, it promises to be a hit with everyone.

Smoked Protein Mac and Cheese Recipe

This high-protein mac and cheese features a creamy cottage cheese-based sauce, enhanced by a smoky finish from the smoker. The combination of elbow macaroni, cheddar, and optional protein powder creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. You’ll love the balance of flavors and textures, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cottage cheese (non-fat or low-fat)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (shred by hand if possible)
• ½ cup unflavored protein powder (optional)
• 1 cup milk (non-fat or your preferred type)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp pepper (to taste)
• Wood chips or pellets for smoking (apple, hickory, or cherry)
• Optional topping: extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of paprika or BBQ rub

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Protein Sauce: In a blender, combine cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, milk, optional protein powder, and cornstarch. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat over medium. Bring to a light simmer and stir until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine with Pasta: Fold the cooked macaroni into the sauce until fully coated.
5. Prepare for Smoking: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using mild-flavored wood (apple or cherry). Lightly oil a cast iron skillet or foil pan for the mac and cheese.
6. Transfer and Top: Spoon the mac and cheese into your skillet or foil pan. Optionally, sprinkle extra shredded cheese, paprika, or a light BBQ rub on top for a smoked crust.
7. Smoke the Mac and Cheese: Place the pan into the smoker and smoke uncovered for 30–45 minutes. It’s ready when the top is lightly golden, smoky, and bubbling gently around the edges.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the mac and cheese rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce set and makes for cleaner scooping.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Smoking Time: 30–45 minutes
• Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 450kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g