Print

Creamy Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese for Two Easy Recipe with Crispy Topping

creamy smoked gouda mac and cheese for two - featured image
Print Recipe

A cozy and indulgent mac and cheese recipe for two featuring creamy smoked Gouda cheese and a golden, crispy panko topping. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal without leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda (about 4 ounces)
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add 6 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium skillet or saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and nutty-smelling.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of whole milk, pouring slowly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking as the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes, until smooth and velvety.
  4. Stir in ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low and stir in 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda and ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar until fully melted and smooth. Add a splash more milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and gently stir to coat evenly.
  7. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated.
  8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a small oven-safe dish (about 6×6 inches). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
  9. Bake under a preheated broiler or in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Let cool for a couple of minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushy mac and cheese. Whisk milk slowly to prevent lumps. Use panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter for a crispy topping. Watch the broiler closely to avoid burning. For gluten-free, substitute pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked Gouda, creamy mac and cheese, crispy topping, easy recipe, comfort food, pasta, cheese sauce

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/creamy-smoked-gouda-mac-and-cheese-for-two-easy-recipe-with-crispy-topping/