Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 27 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This smoked Gouda mac and cheese is a rich and creamy comfort food classic, featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a smooth, smoky cheese sauce made with smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it combines luxurious creaminess with a deep smoky flavor for an irresistible dish.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
  2. Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
  3. Make the roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
  4. Add milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
  5. Simmer and thicken: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Incorporate cheeses and seasoning: Stir in the shredded smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until all the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the rich, smoky cheese mixture.
  8. Serve: Serve the smoked Gouda mac and cheese immediately while warm and creamy for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For added texture, top with toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • Leftovers reheat well; add a splash of milk when warming to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American