Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by all. When prepared on a Traeger grill, this classic dish gets an elevated smoky flavor, creating a unique twist on a family favorite. Cooking it on a pellet grill ensures perfectly creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and an irresistible golden crust. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, mac and cheese on the Traeger is sure to impress.
Mac and cheese is one of those dishes that brings comfort with every bite. Its creamy texture and gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. With a crispy, golden topping and smoky flavor from the Traeger, this version takes comfort food to a whole new level.
Cooking mac and cheese on a Traeger brings a depth of flavor you simply can’t get from the stovetop. The wood pellets used in the Traeger grill infuse the dish with a rich, smoky undertone that enhances the creamy cheese sauce. Plus, grilling allows the mac and cheese to achieve a crispy top while keeping the inside perfectly creamy and indulgent.
The Benefits of Cooking Mac and Cheese on a Pellet Grill
Using a Traeger grill for mac and cheese is not only about flavor—it also helps with texture. The grill’s consistent heat and indirect cooking process create a beautifully baked mac and cheese that’s perfectly creamy on the inside and wonderfully crunchy on top. The wood-fired flavor adds complexity, making this mac and cheese stand out from others.
Essential Ingredients for Mac and Cheese Traeger Recipe
To make this Traeger mac and cheese recipe, you’ll need a few simple but essential ingredients that deliver incredible flavor and texture.
1: The Perfect Cheese Blend
A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of Gruyère or Parmesan gives this mac and cheese the ideal balance of creaminess and flavor. The sharp cheddar offers tanginess, mozzarella provides that meltiness, and the Gruyère or Parmesan adds complexity.
2: Pasta Selection for the Best Texture
Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with other shapes like shells or cavatappi. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce to maintain the perfect texture after grilling.
3: The Role of Heavy Cream and Butter
Heavy cream is essential for creating a smooth, velvety cheese sauce, while butter adds richness and a buttery finish. This combination ensures the sauce is perfectly creamy and coats each piece of pasta beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Mac and Cheese on the Traeger
Follow these simple steps to make mac and cheese on your Traeger grill.
Step 1: Preheat Your Traeger Grill
Start by preheating your Traeger to 350°F. Set it to indirect heat mode and let the grill come to temperature while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Preparing the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the shredded cheese and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta on the Traeger
Cook your pasta according to package instructions but slightly undercook it to maintain its texture on the grill. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Combining the Cheese Sauce and Pasta
Toss the cooked pasta in the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish that fits on your Traeger grill.
Step 5: Grilling the Mac and Cheese for That Perfect Smoky Flavor
Place the baking dish on the preheated Traeger and grill the mac and cheese for 25–30 minutes. Check periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook. After grilling, top the mac and cheese with extra shredded cheese and let it melt under the heat for a few more minutes for that perfect golden, crispy topping.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Mac and Cheese on a Traeger
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your mac and cheese turns out perfect every time.
How to Get the Best Smoky Flavor
For the best smoky flavor, use applewood or hickory pellets. These woods complement the richness of the cheese while providing a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish.
Adjusting Cooking Time for Creaminess
If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, reduce the grilling time slightly or cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first 15–20 minutes of cooking. This will keep moisture in and prevent the cheese sauce from becoming too thick.
Using the Right Wood Pellets
The type of wood pellets you use in your Traeger can make a big difference in flavor. For a lighter, sweet smoky profile, try fruitwood pellets like apple or cherry. For a more intense, bold flavor, hickory or mesquite pellets work well.
Delicious Variations of Mac and Cheese on a Traeger
Feel free to get creative with these fun variations to make your mac and cheese even more exciting.
Variation 1: Bacon Mac and Cheese
Add crispy bacon bits into the mac and cheese mixture before grilling for an extra layer of flavor. The smoky bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Variation 2: Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
For a spicy twist, stir in cooked shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. Top with crumbled blue cheese for a tangy kick that balances out the creamy cheese sauce.
How to Serve and Store Mac and Cheese on a Traeger
Once your mac and cheese is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are a few tips on how to serve and store it properly.
Best Serving Suggestions for Mac and Cheese
Serve your mac and cheese as a main dish or as a hearty side dish. Pair it with grilled meats, such as Traeger smoked ribs, or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage Tips to Keep Mac and Cheese Fresh
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the Traeger at a low temperature to prevent the cheese from separating.
There’s no better way to enjoy mac and cheese than by cooking it on your Traeger grill. The smoky flavor and creamy texture make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe will surely be a hit.
Final Thoughts on Mac and Cheese Traeger Recip
Give this mac and cheese recipe a try the next time you fire up your Traeger. With its perfect balance of creaminess and smoky flavor, it will become your new go-to comfort food.
Share this recipe with friends and family and make your next meal something truly special. Traeger mac and cheese is a fun and delicious way to experience this classic dish in a new way. Happy grilling!
