Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese – Ultra-Creamy Comfort with a Smoky Twist

There are few dishes as universally loved as mac and cheese, but when smoked gouda enters the picture, something magical happens. This Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese takes everything you adore about the classic—creamy sauce, tender pasta, rich cheese—and elevates it with a subtle smokiness that feels indulgent, grown-up, and deeply comforting all at once.

This is the kind of mac and cheese that makes people pause after the first bite. The smokiness doesn’t overpower; instead, it wraps itself gently around the creaminess, adding depth and warmth that lingers. It’s cozy enough for a weeknight dinner, impressive enough for holiday tables, and bold enough to stand on its own as a main dish.

Smoked gouda is the star here, but it’s supported by a blend of cheeses that ensure perfect melt and balance. Sharp cheddar adds tang, milk keeps things silky, and a buttery breadcrumb topping provides just the right amount of texture. Whether baked until bubbly or served straight from the stovetop, this mac and cheese delivers serious comfort with just a hint of sophistication.

This recipe is especially perfect for colder months, potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you want to serve something familiar yet unforgettable. It’s classic comfort food with a chef-level upgrade—without complicated steps or fancy equipment.

Ingredients:

• Elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Garlic, minced
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Breadcrumbs or panko
• Olive oil or melted butter (for topping)
• Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the smoked gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season the cheese sauce with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until evenly coated.
8. Transfer to a baking dish if baking.
9. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter.
10. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
11. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
12. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

Creamy baked macaroni and cheese made with smoked gouda and sharp cheddar for rich, smoky comfort.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Dish, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Mac & Cheese Base

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups smoked gouda cheese shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Topping

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish

Method

 

1. Cook pasta until al dente; drain.
2. Make roux with butter, garlic, and flour.
3. Whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
4. Stir in cheeses and seasonings until smooth.
5. Combine pasta with sauce and transfer to baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly.

Notes

For extra creaminess, serve straight from stovetop without baking.

Tips & Tricks:

• Shred cheese from a block for smoother melting.
• Use whole milk for the creamiest sauce.
• Don’t overbake—just until bubbly to keep it creamy.

Variations:

• Bacon Smoked Gouda Mac: Stir in crispy bacon pieces before baking.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne or diced jalapeños.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve alongside roasted vegetables, green salad, or grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with barbecue, holiday roasts, or simple weeknight proteins.

Storage Information:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

FAQ:

• Is smoked gouda very strong? It’s smoky but mild, especially when blended with cheddar.
• Can I make this ahead? Yes—assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
• Can I skip baking? Absolutely. Serve straight from the stovetop for ultra-creamy mac.

History / Fun Facts:
Macaroni and cheese dates back centuries, but smoked cheeses became popular additions as home cooks sought deeper flavors without complexity. Smoked gouda, originally from the Netherlands, brings a subtle campfire-like warmth that transforms classic mac and cheese into a modern comfort-food favorite.