Gouda Mac and Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes mac and cheese to the next level with the smoky, buttery flavor of Gouda. It’s easy to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Gouda Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and customizable to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Elbow macaroni
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground mustard (optional)
• Paprika (optional for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Gouda and cheddar cheeses until melted and smooth.
5. Season with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and ground mustard if using.
6. Fold in the cooked macaroni and stir to coat all the pasta in the creamy cheese sauce.
7. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with a little extra cheese or paprika, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden finish.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 as a main dish or 8 as a side. Total time is approximately 25–30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Bacon Gouda Mac: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch.
• Truffle Mac: Add a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving for a gourmet touch.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Veggie Mac: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Baked Version: Pour into a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream, stirring often until smooth.
You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular Gouda instead of smoked?

Yes, regular Gouda will give you a milder flavor without the smokiness. Both work beautifully.

What kind of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can also use shells, cavatappi, or penne for variety.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Does Gouda melt well?

Gouda melts smoothly and creates a creamy, luscious sauce, especially when combined with cheddar.

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it, refrigerate, and reheat gently when ready to serve. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely. The cheesy, creamy flavor is a hit with both kids and adults.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Use a bit more heavy cream or add a spoonful of cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.

Can I bake this instead of serving stovetop?

Yes. Pour into a greased baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.

What cheeses pair well with Gouda?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and Fontina all complement Gouda nicely in mac and cheese.

What can I serve with Gouda Mac and Cheese?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, green salad, grilled meats, or BBQ-style mains.

Conclusion

Gouda Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish with a deliciously smoky twist. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s perfect as a standalone meal or a hearty side. Simple enough for weeknights and special enough for holidays, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the boxed stuff.

Gouda Mac and Cheese

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Taco Spaghetti is a one-pot fusion of tacos and pasta, combining seasoned beef, zesty tomatoes, spaghetti, and melted cheese into a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal perfect for busy nights.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One-Pot Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade blend)
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 12 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
2. Add ground beef and garlic. Cook until beef is browned, then drain excess fat.
3. Stir in taco seasoning until the beef is well-coated.
4. Add Rotel, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Break spaghetti in half and submerge in the liquid.
6. Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
7. Turn off heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream if desired.

Notes

• Swap ground beef for chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat for variation.
• Add cream cheese for a richer, creamier version.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 525
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 78mg