Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Kick your mac and cheese game up a notch with this anything-but-traditional smoked gouda mac and cheese version. It’s creamy, cheesy and irresistibly smoky, making this the perfect twist on an old classic comfort food. Perfect for cozy nights in or as a show-stopping side at gatherings, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Bonus: this recipe is highly customizable, so if you want to make it your own (add bits of bacon! mix in some ham! turn it up with a crumbly topping and extra cheese!) you have plenty of ways to do so.

This mac and cheese with smoked gouda is a bit more intensive than a simple box of mac and cheese, but that’s kind of the point. When you’re craving an indulgent comfort food, but you want something a bit more satisfying for your palate, this smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe is the clear winner.

Ingredients for Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

• Elbow macaroni: Feel free to mix it up with any uncooked short pasta of your choice.
• Butter: This is a key ingredient for making mac and cheese as creamy and rich as it is.
• All-purpose flour: The flour helps to create a thicker cheese sauce that really clings to the macaroni.
• Whole milk: Use whole milk for the richness provided by the fat.
• Spices: You’ll use salt, pepper, garlic powder, ground mustard and paprika to really elevate the flavors of this dish.
• Cheese: To give this mac and cheese it’s extra cheesy flavor, you’ll be using smoked Gouda, shredded cheddar, and shredded Parmesan to create a gooey, cheesy, smoky flavor.
• Parsley: Use minced fresh parsley as a garnish. While optional, it definitely adds just the right look, taste and touch to this meal.

Directions

Step 1: Cook macaroni

Preheat oven to 400°F. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain; set aside.

Step 2:  Make cheesy sauce

In a large sauce pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour gradually; cook until lightly browned, whisking constantly. Gradually add milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, mustard and paprika. Bring to a simmer; cook until sauce has thickened, or about three to four minutes. Whisk occasionally to keep the sauce combined and from sticking. Add cheeses until all cheeses have fully melted. Stir this mixture into the macaroni.

Step 3: Bake

Transfer the cheese and pasta to a greased 13×9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake until cheese is bubbly and edges are just golden brown, or about 35 to 40 minutes. Top with finely chopped parsley, if desired.

Recipe Variations

• Add meat: Bake bacon separately and crumble into the mac and cheese prior to baking. Other yummy meat additions include ham, hunks of steak, or if the mood is striking – chunks of hot dogs.
• Add herbs: This decadent dish is delightful with dried herbs. Favorites include crushed and dried rosemary, thyme, oregano, parsley or basil.
• Add a crunchy topping: For added texture, mix breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with some melted butter, seasonings of your choice and the Parmesan, and sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking.

How to Store Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and put it in the fridge. Enjoy within three to four days.

Can you freeze smoked gouda mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze leftover mac and cheese to enjoy within three months. Freeze completely cooled mac and cheese in an airtight, freezer-safe container or throw-away freezer pan with cover. It’s best to freeze before baking for best consistency. When you want to enjoy, simple remove from the freezer to the fridge to allow it to thaw overnight. The next day, top and bake as you would normally.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Tips

Why is my mac and cheese not creamy?

One of the best parts about homemade mac and cheese is that you have an absurdly creamy texture. If that’s just not happening for you, there are a few reasons why that might be. If you use too much flour in your roux, the sauce can become too thick and lumpy, which will result in a less-than-creamy consistency when it comes to making the mac and cheese. Make sure to not overcook your mac and cheese as well. You can add a little more butter if you need to.

What should I serve with mac and cheese?

This smoked gouda mac and cheese is wonderful on its own, but if you want to pair it with something, steamed broccoli, dinner rolls and air-fried chicken nuggets would be perfect.

How do I add veggies to mac and cheese?

One of the simplest ways to add some fiber into this meal is to drop in lightly steamed broccoli florets or peas. The cheeses and the green veggies pair well together, plus the green adds a nice touch of vibrancy to this dish.