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Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

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This smoked gouda mac and cheese is ultra-creamy, deeply flavorful, and topped with a golden, crunchy panko crust. The smoky gouda takes classic comfort food to a whole new level—perfect for cozy nights, potlucks, or whenever you need a cheesy pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 12 oz smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard (or 1 tsp Dijon mustard)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Slowly whisk in whole milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until smooth. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in shredded smoked gouda and sharp cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard. Mix until cheese is fully melted and sauce is silky. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until all pasta is coated. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk.
  6. Transfer macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top.
  7. Melt remaining 2 tbsp butter. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes, watching closely.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, shred cheese yourself for a smoother sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta—it will finish baking in the oven. If making ahead, assemble without the topping and refrigerate; add panko just before baking. For gluten-free, use GF pasta and flour. Add-ins like bacon, veggies, or extra spices are welcome. If the sauce thickens too much, loosen with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked gouda mac and cheese, mac and cheese, comfort food, baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, gouda recipes, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, family dinner, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/smoked-gouda-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-creamy-comfort-food/