Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crumble
This Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Bacon Crumble recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and unbelievably delicious, this baked pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The smoky Gouda adds a sophisticated touch, while the crispy bacon provides a delightful salty crunch. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Keywords:
Mac and Cheese, Smoked Gouda, Bacon, Comfort Food, Creamy, Cheesy, Baked, American, Pasta, Easy
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe isn't just about throwing some ingredients together; it's about creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The richness of the smoked Gouda pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar, creating a complex cheese sauce that is both creamy and decadent. The crispy bacon adds a delightful salty crunch, providing a beautiful textural contrast to the soft pasta. And the simple baking process results in a golden-brown, bubbly top that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | Elbow Macaroni | 1 pound |
| Sauce | Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Sauce | All-purpose Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Sauce | Milk | 3 cups |
| Sauce | Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sauce | Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sauce | Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cheese | Shredded Smoked Gouda Cheese | 4 cups |
| Cheese | Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
| Topping | Bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled | 8 slices |
| Topping | Breadcrumbs (optional) | To taste |
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with crispy bacon crumble and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks
- For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Fontina.
Serving Suggestions
This mac and cheese is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. A glass of crisp white wine or a light beer complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
| Calories | ~450 |
| Fat | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Protein | ~15g |
Hashtags
#MacAndCheese #ComfortFood #BaconLovers #SmokedGouda
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