Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

This smoked Gouda mac and cheese is marvelously smooth and creamy with a bit of a bite. It's an elevated version of a true comfort-food classic.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Calories: 329 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 0.25 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2.5 cups milk
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2.5 tablespoons butter
• 1 (12 ounce) package shell pasta

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Bake in the preheated oven until heated through, about 15 minutes.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.

Step 3

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shell pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 9 minutes.

Step 4

Drain pasta and transfer to a large bowl. Pour cheese sauce over top and mix until thoroughly combined. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.

Step 5

While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in flour and stir until mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, and pepper, then bring to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in shredded cheese; cook, whisking constantly, until sauce is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 5 to 10 minutes.