Mississippi Grilled Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Bites

Introduction

If you're looking for the ultimate grilled comfort food, these Mississippi Grilled Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Bites are perfect! With a crispy, golden-brown crust and a creamy, smoky center, these bites are made entirely on the Arteflame grill for unmatched flavor and texture. Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious dish that's great as an appetizer or a side dish for your barbecue feast!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the macaroni

1. Boil water on the flat cooktop surface using a heat-resistant pot.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain.

Step 3: Make the cheese sauce

1. On the flat cooktop near the center, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the milk, smoked Gouda, and sharp cheddar.
3. Mix in salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and form bites

1. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
2. Allow it to cool slightly before shaping into bite-sized balls.
3. Coat each bite in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in panko.

Step 5: Grill the mac & cheese bites

1. Lightly butter the griddle surface to prevent sticking.
2. Place the coated mac & cheese bites on the flat cooktop near the outer edges for even heating.
3. Grill each bite for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips

• For extra crispiness, press the mac & cheese mixture into a tray, chill, then cut into squares before grilling.
• Use smoked wood for an even deeper smoky flavor.
• Always butter the griddle surface for the best golden crust.

Variations

1. Spicy Jalapeño: Add finely chopped jalapeños to the mac & cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Bacon Lover's: Mix in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory addition.
3. Truffle Delight: Drizzle truffle oil over the bites for an upscale flavor.
4. Buffalo Ranch: Toss the bites in buffalo sauce and serve with ranch dressing.
5. Pesto Parmesan: Mix in pesto and sprinkle parmesan for an Italian twist.

Best Pairings

• Grilled brisket or ribeye for a hearty meal.
• A crisp coleslaw to add refreshing crunch.
• Sweet and smoky barbecue sauce for dipping.
• A glass of cold craft beer or sweet tea to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

Mississippi Grilled Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Bites are the perfect combination of creamy, crispy, and smoky flavors, all made effortlessly on the Arteflame grill. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or looking for a delicious homemade comfort food, these bites will be a hit!