Description
A rich and creamy Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe featuring a smoothly crafted cheese sauce made with smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar, and cream cheese, combined with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni for an indulgent comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 (8 oz) box elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted sweet cream butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp mustard powder
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups grated smoked Gouda cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and forms a paste, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Mustard Powder: Whisk in the mustard powder until it is evenly incorporated into the roux.
- Add Half and Half: Gradually pour in the half and half while whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, making sure no lumps remain and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Add Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Whisk until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Cheddar and Gouda: Add the shredded cheddar and grated smoked Gouda cheese to the sauce. Whisk until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and fold in the cooked macaroni, stirring gently until all the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
- Be sure to whisk continuously when adding liquids to the roux to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- You can substitute the half and half with whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Prepare the macaroni just until al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy its creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
