Nothing says comfort food quite like a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent bowl of mac and cheese. But what if we take it up a notch? Enter Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese—a rich, smoky twist on the classic that’s baked to perfection with a crispy, golden topping. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
With a velvety cheese sauce made from smoked Gouda and sharp cheddar, this mac and cheese is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. The crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making every bite irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich & Creamy – Silky smooth cheese sauce coats every bite.
✅ Smoky & Flavorful – The addition of Gouda brings a subtle, smoky depth.
✅ Golden, Crispy Topping – Baked with a crunchy breadcrumb crust for the perfect texture.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make this a go-to recipe.
Total Time Required
⏳ Prep Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 2 cups Gouda cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in Gouda, cheddar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine & Transfer
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well until fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish or a side with grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Health Benefits
🥛 Calcium-Rich: Gouda and cheddar are packed with calcium, essential for strong bones.
🧀 Protein-Packed: Cheese provides a good amount of protein for muscle repair.
🔥 Comfort Food with a Homemade Twist: Avoids the preservatives found in store-bought mac and cheese.
Tips & Variations
💡 Make it Extra Creamy: Swap whole milk for heavy cream.
💡 Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or lobster.
💡 Spice it Up: Add cayenne, mustard powder, or red pepper flakes for heat.
💡 Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and swap panko for GF breadcrumbs.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
3. What’s the best pasta shape for mac and cheese?
Elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or shells work best because they hold the cheese sauce well.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. How do I reheat mac and cheese without drying it out?
Add a splash of milk or heavy cream before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. You can also microwave it with a little milk for a creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves cheesy, creamy, and crispy baked pasta. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting weeknight dinner or bringing it to a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try and let me know—what’s your favorite mac and cheese topping? 🧀👇
Baked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness
- 2 cups Gouda cheese shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in Gouda, cheddar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine & Transfer
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well until fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes, then serve hot and enjoy!
