Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Get ready to experience mac and cheese like never before with this incredible Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe. This isn't your ordinary boxed dinner – it's a creamy, smoky, and absolutely irresistible twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups smoked Gouda cheese freshly grated
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted water according to package directions until just al dente – don't overcook as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the grated cheeses in batches, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.