Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

There is probably one unique mac and cheese recipe in the world for every human, maybe even several.

That is because this comfort food wins in every country, with every human.

This smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe is a delight because it brings elegance to a dish that you may typically consider a lunchtime meal.

With this easy smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe, though, you can have mac and cheese for dinner and call it a beautiful evening.

Be sure to try my Broccoli Mac and Cheese and Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese recipes next!

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Why I love Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

Cheese can be so personal to so many people. Cheese lovers will have their favorites and their foes in cheese as well. This smoked gouda mac and cheese will please almost everybody and is the best-smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe I’ve seen.

• Delicious – This dish is a cheese lover’s fantasy come true. The smoked gouda makes this a truly unique flavor in classic comfort food.
• Loaded with cheese – Three different kinds of cheese in this dish land this recipe its comfort food label.
• Easy – This is a traditional mac and cheese recipe where you cook the sauce on the stove and then blend it with the pasta. Easy.
• Versatile – You can do a lot with this dish, which is what makes it the best-smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe I have tried. It makes for a great main dish, but it’s also a beautiful side. So many variations with this one, and it’s a winner every time.

What kind of cheese is best for mac and cheese?

The best kind of cheese for mac and cheese is the kind that your people will like. If you don’t have picky eaters, this smoked gouda mac and cheese is going to become a favorite. Still, any cheese works here. Make it creamier and softer tasting with some Havarti variations, or make the cheese stand out and pop with an old cheddar or something like this smoked gouda.

Do you have to put milk in mac and cheese?

The milk is what gives the sauce its creamy texture, which is what makes every mac and cheese recipe a winner. However, you can lighten up the cream sauce by using water or chicken broth instead. Beef stock will work as well, depending on what meat you are adding to the meal if anything.

What are the 3 best cheeses for mac and cheese?

I personally find cheese to be a very personal choice, so the best cheese for your dishes will always be the ones that you and your family enjoy. That said, the most popular and well-loved cheeses are cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Gruyere is nice too, with a nutty and salty tone to it that tastes great with pasta.

How to serve Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

There are so many things you can do with this as a main dish. Go light with salad and rolls on the side, or make this a side to a main meal such as a sweet pork roast or barbecue ribs. Mac and cheese can easily be served with anything, even Christmas dinner, so make it your own.

Cooking Tips:

The key to ensuring your sauce turns out exactly the way that you want it to is to take your time with the roux at the beginning of the sauce. Work with the butter and the flour, but not for too long.

Variations:

This smoked gouda mac and cheese is a recipe that you can add a lot to without compromising the beauty of the gouda in this recipe. Bacon is always a personal favorite when I want to make mac and cheese more interesting, but ham, sausage, or chicken are all great choices as well.

Ingredients:

• Elbow macaroni
• Unsalted sweet cream butter
• Flour
• Mustard powder
• Half and half
• Cream cheese
• Grated smoked Gouda cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese

How To Make Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese:

Step 1. Using a large pot, cook the macaroni according to the back of the box, drain, and set aside

Step 2. Using a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour and whisk until smooth.

Continue to whisk until a paste forms.

Step 3. Whisk in the mustard powder

Step 4. Gradually pour in while whisking the half and half. Bring the mixture to a boil

Step 5. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cream cheese until smooth

Step 6. Whisk in the cheddar cheese and Gouda cheese until melted

Step 7. Remove from heat and fold in the macaroni until completely coated

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How to store Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

You want to store your smoked gouda mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge.

How to reheat Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

This will go soggy or mushy in the microwave if you are reheating it. Put it in a casserole dish and reheat at 325 for about 15 minutes, or longer if from frozen.

How much does Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese last on the fridge?

This smoked gouda mac and cheese should last up to five days in the fridge. It can last up to six months in the freezer.

Can I make ahead Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can make this meal ahead of time. This smoked gouda mac and cheese will taste just as great if made a day or two in advance. It is easy to reheat and makes for an even easier weeknight dish on its own.

Related Recipes you Might Enjoy:

Seafood Mac and Cheese – Seafood mac and cheese is a delicacy on some of the best menus in the world. 

Easy Taco Mac and Cheese – This mac and cheese is as easy as its name says and brings mountains of flavor into your favorite comfort food dinner. 

Broccoli Mac and Cheese – When your doctor or your family wants you to add more veg to your diet, stuff it in some mac and cheese and it doesn’t feel so bad.