Gouda Mac & Cheese: Smoky, Bacon-y Bliss

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crumble

There's nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of macaroni and cheese. This recipe takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level with the smoky depth of smoked Gouda and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon crumbles. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or any occasion that calls for a truly decadent and satisfying meal.

Keywords:

Macaroni and cheese, smoked gouda, bacon, comfort food, creamy, baked, cheese sauce, pasta

A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

Imagine this: a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce, infused with the smoky richness of smoked Gouda, clinging lovingly to perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Then, picture the delightful contrast—the sharp, salty crunch of crispy bacon crumbles scattered generously across the top, adding a textural dimension that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Each bite is a harmonious blend of velvety smoothness and satisfying crispness, a true testament to the magic of culinary alchemy.

The Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crumble

Yields:

6-8 servings

Prep time:

15 minutes

Cook time:

35 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 4 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

For the Topping (optional):

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms (this is your roux).
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded smoked Gouda cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and the crumbled bacon.
6. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. For an extra crispy topping (optional): combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is divine on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad for a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrients and flavor.
• A side of grilled chicken or steak for a complete and balanced meal.

Tips and Tricks for Mac and Cheese Perfection:

• Use high-quality smoked Gouda for the best flavor.
• Don't overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente.
• Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent burning.
• Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set.

Hashtags:

#macandcheese #comfortfood #smokedgouda #bacon #cheeselover #bakedmacandcheese #pasta

Labels:

American Comfort Food