Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
If you’re searching for next-level comfort food with a decadent twist, it’s time to make this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe. Imagine velvety, smoky cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, with hints of sharp cheddar and a touch of Dijon – all topped with the option for a little fresh parsley to really set it off. This dish isn’t just weeknight dinner; it’s an experience you’ll crave on cozy nights or whenever you need a little cheesy hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe is carefully chosen for maximum flavor and lusciousness. Keeping the list simple helps each flavor shine, from the creamy dairy to the smoky cheese and subtle spices that make this comfort classic irresistible.
- 12 oz elbow macaroni: The classic shape holds onto all that luscious cheese sauce, making every bite extra satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Helps build the rich roux – it’s key for that silky-smooth cheese sauce!
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce to the perfect, cling-to-your-pasta consistency.
- 2 cups whole milk: Whole milk gives body and balance – don’t swap for skim, or you’ll lose richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to an ultra-creamy, dreamy texture in this gourmet dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A dash of Dijon adds a gentle tang that brightens up all that cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Just enough to perfume every scoop with mellow, savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): For those who love an extra tease of smokiness in their mac and cheese.
- 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese: The star of this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe, infusing every bite with smoky, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Keeps things bold, sharp, and deliciously familiar.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the sauce with a salty, umami-packed punch.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Sprinkled on top for a touch of color and freshness against all that decadence.
How to Make Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a rolling boil, then add your elbow macaroni. Cook it until just al dente – you want them tender but still with a bit of bite since they’ll continue cooking when combined with that glorious cheese sauce. Drain the noodles well so you don’t water down your creamy base, and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s just foamy, then sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden hue and a bubbly texture – this step is crucial as it ensures your cheese sauce will be silky, not grainy.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to banish any lumps. Keep the pot over medium heat and stir until the mixture thickens slightly – about 4–5 minutes. At this stage, whisk in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. The aroma alone will have you swooning!
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Turn the heat down to low and toss in your smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses a handful at a time, stirring after each addition. This is the showstopper moment of every Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe – be patient and let each portion melt fully before adding the next. The result should be a glossy, thick, and creamy sauce that’s basically irresistible.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Gently fold your cooked elbow macaroni into the sauce, making sure every noodle is coated in that lavish cheese mixture. Let it sit over low heat for just a minute to marry the flavors and warm everything through. Serve it up hot, and for that extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top if desired.
How to Serve Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple flourish of chopped fresh parsley is the classic finish, but you can also add a scattering of crispy breadcrumbs, a dusting of extra smoked paprika, or even a handful of sliced green onions. Don’t be afraid to get creative—every garnish adds a little extra flair to this crowd-pleasing mac and cheese.
Side Dishes
This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe is fantastic on its own, but it also plays well with others. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted veggies (think broccoli or Brussels sprouts), or grilled chicken for a heartier meal. It’s the perfect side for barbecue nights or potluck spreads, too!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the mac and cheese into ramekins and sprinkle with breadcrumbs, then bake until bubbly and golden on top—the ultimate mac and cheese “soufflé.” Hosting a party? Serve small portions in mini mugs or as sliders tucked into soft rolls for next-level finger food. And don’t forget: a dash of hot sauce tableside never hurts for those who crave a kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe actually develops even more depth as it sits, making tomorrow’s lunch or dinner downright craveworthy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your mac and cheese, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to two months. Pro-tip: undercook the pasta just a smidge if you know you’ll freeze it, so it doesn’t get too soft when reheated.
Reheating
The best way to revive leftover mac and cheese is a gentle reheat. Simply pop it in a saucepan with a splash of milk, stirring over low heat until creamy again. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between—just add a bit of milk before microwaving to keep things luscious.
FAQs
What makes smoked Gouda stand out in this mac and cheese?
Smoked Gouda brings an incredible depth and nuance to the dish, thanks to its signature smoky notes and creamy texture. It melts like a dream, creating a sauce that’s both rich and perfectly balanced.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, shells, cavatappi, or even penne will work beautifully—choose a pasta shape that can hold plenty of cheesy goodness in every bite.
How do I get a crispy topping if I want to bake it?
Once your mac and cheese is mixed and in a baking dish, sprinkle over buttered breadcrumbs (and maybe an extra handful of Gouda!) and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbling on top.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. Or mix in diced jalapeños for some bold heat that pairs well with the smoky Gouda.
Can I make this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Everything else in this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe remains the same, so you won’t lose any flavor or creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably special about sharing a baked dish of creamy, luxurious mac and cheese with friends or family. This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe brings smoky, cheesy comfort to every table, and it’s just waiting for you to make it your own. Whether you serve it as a main, a side, or sneak bites straight from the pot, I hope it finds a special place in your kitchen, too!
Print
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe. With a blend of smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, this stovetop mac and cheese is a flavorful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni:
12 oz
Unsalted Butter:
2 tablespoons
All-Purpose Flour:
2 tablespoons
Whole Milk:
2 cups
Heavy Cream:
1/2 cup
Dijon Mustard:
1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Smoked Paprika (optional):
1/4 teaspoon
Smoked Gouda Cheese, shredded:
2 cups
Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded:
1 cup
Parmesan Cheese, grated:
1/4 cup
Parsley for garnish (optional):
chopped
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni: In salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and cream. Cook until slightly thickened. Stir in mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add the cheeses: Reduce heat, stir in the Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stir until coated, and serve hot. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra smokiness, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or more smoked paprika.
- Bake with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
