Gouda Mac and Cheese
This homemade macaroni and cheese is creamy, velvety, and delicious, thanks to the combination of cheddar and gouda cheeses.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Silicon whisk (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dry elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 and 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper plus more for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces gouda shredded
- Paprika for topping
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni to al dente in well-salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high until melted. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour to form a paste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently with a silicone whisk, until flour is lightly browned.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Add in the shredded cheddar and gouda. Stir until cheese is completely melted.
- Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once the sauce is bubbling, reduce heat down to low. Let simmer over low heat until thickened. The sauce is ready when it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without sliding off.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to combine. Serve topped with paprika and additional black pepper.
Notes
Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the elbow macaroni to al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures that the pasta retains its texture and doesn't become mushy when mixed with the cheese sauce.
Creating the Cheese Sauce: Take your time when preparing the cheese sauce to achieve the perfect consistency. Stir the sauce constantly and allow it to simmer over low heat until thickened. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Cheese Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Mild cheddar or gruyere can be used as substitutes for gouda, offering unique flavor variations. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more
Creating the Cheese Sauce: Take your time when preparing the cheese sauce to achieve the perfect consistency. Stir the sauce constantly and allow it to simmer over low heat until thickened. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Cheese Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Mild cheddar or gruyere can be used as substitutes for gouda, offering unique flavor variations. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more