Gouda Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Gouda Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that many of us know and love. This creamy, cheesy dish not only warms the heart but also tantalizes the taste buds with its rich, smoky flavor. Originating from the traditional macaroni and cheese recipes that date back to the 18th century, this version incorporates the nutty, buttery notes of Gouda cheese, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

People adore Gouda Mac and Cheese for its perfect balance of creamy texture and savory taste, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The convenience of preparing this dish, combined with its ability to please even the pickiest eaters, makes it a favorite in many households. Join me as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering Gouda Mac and Cheese that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded Gouda cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for breadcrumbs)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil the Pasta**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 2. **Drain and Rinse**: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

3. **Melt the Butter**: In the same pot you used for the pasta, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we just want it melted. 4. **Add Flour**: Once the butter is melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This is called a roux, and it will help thicken our cheese sauce. 5. **Pour in the Milk**: Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. 6. **Season the Sauce**: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This will add depth to the flavor of your cheese sauce. 7. **Add the Cheese**: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded Gouda cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce

8. **Mix Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure that all the pasta is coated in that delicious, creamy cheese sauce. 9. **Taste and Adjust**: At this point, I like to taste the mac and cheese. If you feel it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch more salt or pepper.

Preparing the Breadcrumb Topping

10. **Prepare Breadcrumbs**: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This will give them a nice crunch when baked.

Baking the Mac and Cheese

11. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your mac and cheese bakes evenly. 12. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. 13. **Add Breadcrumbs**: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This will create a lovely crunchy topping. 14. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Serving the Gouda Mac and Cheese

15. **Cool Slightly**: Once baked, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a bit and make it easier to serve. 16. **Garnish and Serve**: If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Storage and Reheating

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Gouda Mac and Cheese recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy comfort food. The rich, smoky flavor of Gouda elevates the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level, making it a standout dish for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. You can also experiment with variations by adding in your favorite proteins, like crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this Gouda Mac and Cheese so versatile! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how you customized it or any tips you discovered along the way. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite of this delicious Gouda Mac and Cheese! Print