Easy Creamy Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

There’s something about mac and cheese that just feels like home but this version takes it up a notch. Smoked Gouda mac and cheese is creamy, rich, and packed with just the right amount of smoky flavor. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to win over a crowd.

I make this when we need a little comfort in a bowl, and let me tell you kids and adults both scrape the dish clean every time. The smoked Gouda brings a bold, savory edge while the buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch. It’s dreamy, cheesy, and totally irresistible!

Why You’ll Love Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

If you love classic mac and cheese but want something a little more special, this recipe is for you. Smoked Gouda brings a deep, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with cheddar and Parmesan, making this mac extra creamy and rich. It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry staples, and is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to potlucks and holidays.

Simple Ingredients

These ingredients keep it simple but full of flavor:

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni or cavatappi work best to soak up the cheesy goodness. Choose a shape that holds sauce well.
• Smoked Gouda Cheese: This is the star! It brings smoky depth and richness that sets this mac apart.
• Additional Cheese Blend: Cheddar adds sharpness, Parmesan brings a salty bite, and fontina melts like a dream.
• Milk (or Cream): Whole milk gives creaminess, but a splash of heavy cream makes it extra luxurious.
• Butter: Used to start the roux and add that unmistakable buttery base.
• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce so it coats every bite of pasta.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are a must. I like to add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for a little extra something.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Optional, but a buttery, crispy topping adds texture and makes it feel extra special.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Turn the heat to low. Stir in smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
5. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
6. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle on top.
7. Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm.

Top Tips

• Grate your cheese fresh for the creamiest melt pre-shredded cheese has additives that can make the sauce grainy.
• Don’t overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
• Use a baking dish for family-style serving great for potlucks or Sunday dinners.
• Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking so it stays crispy.
• Let it rest a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens up perfectly.

Recipe Variations

• Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky, salty twist.
• Stir in steamed broccoli or roasted cauliflower for some veggie power.
• Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne.
• Swap in gluten-free pasta and flour for an allergy-friendly version.

Recommended Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cheese grater
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Colander

Make Ahead Tips

You can prep the cheese sauce and pasta ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge, then reheat and combine when ready to serve. Assemble with breadcrumbs right before baking.

How to Store and Reheat

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk, or reheat in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots
• BBQ chicken or pulled pork
• Garlic bread or cornbread for an extra cozy touch

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

Mac and cheese has deep roots in American comfort food, but smoked Gouda brings a European twist with its rich, aged flavor. This recipe bridges the gap between classic and gourmet. Whether you’re serving picky kids or cheese-loving adults, this version hits the spot.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Michelle

Rich and creamy smoked Gouda mac and cheese with a buttery breadcrumb topping easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Dishes

Servings 6

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
• Cheese grater
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Colander

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream optional for extra richness
• 1 1/2 cups shredded smoked Gouda
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder optional
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional for topping
• 1 tbsp butter melted, for breadcrumb topping

Instructions

 

• Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
• Add Milk and Cream: Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Turn the heat to low. Stir in smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
• Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
• Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional): Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with panko breadcrumbs and sprinkle on top.
• Bake (Optional): Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm.

Notes

• For a smoother sauce, add cheese off the heat.
• Smoked Gouda melts better if grated finely.
• Optional: Add a splash of Dijon mustard for extra zing.

Keyword Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese