Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
Description
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.
Ingredients
•
1 (12 ounce) package shell pasta
•
2 1/2 tablespoons butter
•
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
•
2 1/2 cups milk
•
1/2 teaspoon salt
•
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
•
4 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
Directions
1
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.
2
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.
3
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.
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.
5
Bake in the preheated oven until heated through, about 15 minutes.