Description
This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy twist on the classic comfort food, featuring a blend of smoked Gouda, cheddar, and cream cheese for a smoky, cheesy flavor that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 (8 oz) box elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp mustard powder
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and a paste forms, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add mustard powder: Whisk in the mustard powder until it is evenly incorporated into the roux.
- Incorporate half and half: Gradually pour in the half and half while whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring no lumps remain and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Add cream cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Melt the cheeses: Add the shredded cheddar and grated smoked Gouda cheese to the sauce. Whisk until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is rich and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Remove the pan from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, stirring gently until all the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Cook pasta until just al dente as it will continue to soften in the cheese sauce.
- You can add cooked bacon or breadcrumbs for added texture.
- For extra smoky flavor, consider a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
- To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop.
