Gouda Mac and Cheese

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Gouda mac and cheese is a tasty twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe combines sharp cheddar and Gouda cheese for a rich, creamy dish. You can make this delicious meal in just 50 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

The recipe serves 6 people and is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. The panko breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch to the creamy pasta.

Exact Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Gouda mac and cheese:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon steak seasoning
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces Gouda cheese, shredded

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

You’ll love how these simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful dish. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gouda cheeses gives this mac and cheese a unique taste you won’t forget.

Remember to have some extra black pepper on hand for garnishing if you like a bit more kick. Now you’re all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes until light brown. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Stir in salt, pepper, and steak seasoning. Add cheddar and Gouda cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Pour into a greased baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy your creamy Gouda mac and cheese!

Possible Substitutes List & Recipe Variations

You can switch up your Gouda mac and cheese with these tasty substitutions:

• Cheese: Try Havarti, Gruyère, Edam, or mild cheddar instead of Gouda
• Pasta: Use shells, penne, or rotini for a fun twist
• Milk: Swap whole milk for 2% or plant-based options

Want to add some extra flavor? Here are some yummy variations:

• Mix in cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty touch
• Stir in some sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions
• Sprinkle in dried herbs like thyme or oregano
• Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for heat

You can also bake your mac and cheese for a crispy top. Just transfer it to a baking dish, add extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F until golden.

For a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese and milk. You can also add steamed broccoli or peas for some extra veggies.

Remember, these are just suggestions. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Make your Gouda mac and cheese even better with these handy tips:

Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect melting.

Don’t overcook your pasta. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the cheese sauce.

For extra creaminess, try adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to your sauce.

Experiment with different cheeses. Mix in some smoked Gouda or aged cheddar for more depth of flavor.

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. Warm it gently on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave.

For a crispy top, broil the mac and cheese for a few minutes before serving. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.