Create a gourmet Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese that delivers deep smoky flavor and a perfectly creamy sauce. This recipe fixes common pitfalls to give you elevated comfort food.
Author:Ben Androshov
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop or Baked
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound elbow macaroni
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk, warmed
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
4 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (optional topping)
Instructions
Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the mixture is smooth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Do not boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Add the shredded cheddar, smoked Gouda, and Gruyère cheeses one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding the next.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
For a baked finish: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Toss panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Notes
Warming the milk prevents lumps when making the béchamel base.
Shred your own cheese; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy.
Smoked Gouda provides the key flavor; do not substitute if you want the intended taste.