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Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 652
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Method
 

  1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
  2. Melt 3 tbsp butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook 1 to 2 minutes until golden and nutty. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth, then simmer until thickened, 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the smoked Gouda, cheddar, Dijon, and cayenne until fully melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the sauce over the pasta and stir until every piece is well coated.
  5. Turn on the broiler. Transfer the mac and cheese to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Toss the panko with 2 tbsp melted butter and scatter over the top. Broil 2 to 3 minutes until the panko is golden and crisp, watching closely. Serve hot.

Notes

Shred the cheese yourself for a smooth sauce. The Dijon and cayenne here are not spicy; they just nudge the richness awake. If you miss any smoky notes, stir a pinch of smoked paprika into the sauce before adding the cheese.