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Creamy Loaded Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

creamy loaded smoked gouda mac and cheese - featured image
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A creamy, smoky mac and cheese featuring smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, and parmesan cheeses with a crunchy buttery breadcrumb topping. Perfect comfort food for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese (about 8 oz)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (about 2 oz)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30 g)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (about 100 g, panko recommended)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz 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 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until bubbly and golden but not browned.
  3. Slowly pour in 3 cups whole milk and ½ cup heavy cream while whisking continuously. Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1 tsp Dijon mustard, ½ tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in 2 cups shredded smoked gouda, 1 cup sharp cheddar, and ½ cup grated parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  7. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and 1 tsp smoked paprika.
  8. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the surface.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick before baking, add a splash of milk to loosen it. Whisk the roux carefully to avoid lumps. Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Let the dish rest before serving to thicken the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked gouda, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese, smoky cheese

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