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A large pot filled with creamy gouda mac and cheese. A wooden spoon scoops some of the mac and cheese out of the pot.
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Easy Gouda Mac and Cheese

Homemade gouda mac and cheese is made with a velvety smooth cheese sauce in just a few simple steps!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Author: Katie G.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 ounces gouda cheese freshly shredded
  • 2 ounces sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions, until al dente or to your desired firmness. Reserve 1/4 cup of the water in the pot, drain and rinse the pasta and then return it to the pot.
  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large saucepan set over medium heat. Add in the flour and whisk constantly for 2 to 3 minutes, until combined and thickened.
  • Very slowly whisk in the heavy cream and milk, mixing continuously, until incorporated and smooth. Reduce the heat to low.
  • Add in the grated cheese, salt, pepper and hot sauce, if using, stirring constantly until the cheesy is melted and the consistency is smooth and thick, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Gluten free: You can make this mac and cheese gluten free by using gluten free pasta and 1:1 gluten free flour. 
Bake the mac and cheese: You can bake this dish at the end if you prefer. Transfer the mac and cheese to a 2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle an extra 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly. 
Storage: Store leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 456mg | Potassium: 255mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1005IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 325mg | Iron: 1mg