Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

from butterbeready.com
40 min
6 servings

Rich, creamy, nutty, and bold; this smoked gouda mac and cheese is wildly delicious with lip-smacking flavor. Makes a great side dish for any get togethers and occasions alike! Crumbled bacon added on top takes it to another level!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb short pasta, elbow macaroni or shells
  • 16 ounces (2- 8 ounce blocks) smoked gouda cheese, grated and divided
  • 8 ounce extra sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • salt, to taste
  • *Optional: 4 slices of bacon, crumbled

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F.

  2. 2

    Cook pasta according to package directions, al dente, and then set aside.

  3. 3

    In a large dutch oven or pot, heat butter over medium-low heat. Once butter has melted, add in flour, and whisk until all flour disappears. Then slowly add in heavy cream and milk. Stir and let mixture come up to a slight boil. Add in all spices and stir again. Lastly, add in 8-ounces of smoked gouda cheese and white cheddar cheese. Whisk until all cheese has melted. 

  4. 4

    Add in pasta and mix everything together to fully incorporate making sure all pasta is coated in sauce and add salt to preference level. 

  5. 5

    Transfer mixture into a large lightly greased baking dish, then top with remaining 8-ounces of smoked gouda cheese all over dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until mac and cheese is golden and bubbly throughout.

  6. 6

    Let cool for 15 minutes and serve warm. Add crumbled bacon on top, if desired.