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Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Delight

Creamy Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Delight for Cozy Nights

Indulge in this Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese Delight, a comforting and creamy casserole perfect for chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Ideal for capturing the creamy cheese sauce.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 8 ounces Smoked Gouda Cheese Opt for freshly grated for the best melt.
  • 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese Feel free to mix in different varieties for a unique touch.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for the roux.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Warmed to avoid lumps.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Enhances creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds subtle smokiness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Introduces tangy freshness.
  • to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Offers perfect crunch on top.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Provides additional richness and depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Melted Butter For the breadcrumb topping.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • separate saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with warm water.
  2. In a separate saucepan, melt unsalted butter until bubbly, then whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in warmed milk and cream until smooth. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened, then stir in smoked Gouda, cheddar, smoked paprika, mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until every piece is coated evenly.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
  5. Mix toasted panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese until crumbly, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 22gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 900IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This recipe can easily be adapted for vegan or gluten-free diets.

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