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Creamy macaroni and cheese served in a bowl with melted cheese on top.

Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese

A comforting and rich macaroni and cheese with a smoky flavor, perfect for any gathering or family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta Cook until just al dente.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter Helps control salt.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk For a creamier sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups smoked Gouda cheese, freshly shredded Freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
  • 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded Freshly shredded cheese for best melt.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
  • Extra smoked Gouda or Parmesan cheese For topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than package time; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  4. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk and cream; cook until the sauce thickens.
  6. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Stir in smoked Gouda, white cheddar, and Parmesan until smooth.
  8. Combine the cheese sauce with the drained pasta.
  9. Transfer to a buttered baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a creamier outcome, stir in a splash more cream before baking. For a crustier top, broil 1–2 minutes at the end while watching closely. Can add crispy bacon or breadcrumbs for texture.