Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
This creamy Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic comfort food by combining the rich, smoky flavor of Gouda with sharp cheddar. Made with a smooth heavy cream and milk cheese sauce, it promises indulgence in every bite, perfect for a cozy meal or special dinner side.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 ounces Gouda cheese, freshly shredded
- 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente or to your desired firmness. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and rinse the pasta. Return the pasta to the pot to keep warm.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is combined and has thickened slightly, forming a roux.
- Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk, continuously mixing to ensure a smooth and lump-free sauce. Reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Add the freshly shredded Gouda and sharp cheddar cheeses to the sauce along with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and hot sauce if using. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt fully and the sauce becomes smooth and thick, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir well to coat every piece evenly. Serve the mac and cheese immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt and better flavor.
- Reserving some pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- For a smokier taste, consider using smoked Gouda instead of regular Gouda.
- Feel free to add a crispy breadcrumb topping and bake if you prefer baked mac and cheese.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Gouda Mac and Cheese, macaroni and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, Gouda cheese recipes, easy mac and cheese