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Creamy Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.9 from 70 reviews

A creamy and indulgent Gouda Mac and Cheese that combines tender pasta with a rich, buttery cheese sauce made from smooth Gouda cheese. Perfect as a comforting main dish or side, this recipe is simple to prepare and highlights the smoky, nutty flavor of Gouda.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded Gouda cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light golden and bubbly, forming a roux.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded Gouda cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and gently stir until every piece is coated evenly with the creamy Gouda sauce.
  6. Serve: Serve the Gouda Mac and Cheese warm, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
  • Use smoked Gouda for a more pronounced smoky flavor.
  • To add texture and flavor, consider topping with breadcrumbs and broiling briefly for a crispy crust.
  • This dish can be customized by stirring in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed vegetables.
  • Be careful not to overcook the pasta to avoid a mushy texture.

Keywords: Gouda Mac and Cheese, macaroni and cheese, creamy cheese sauce, comfort food, stovetop mac and cheese