Smoky Bacon and Gouda Mac and Cheese 🧀✨

 New Recipe

Smoky Bacon and Gouda Mac and Cheese 🧀✨

Ingredients:

• For the pasta:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
  • 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

• For the sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded gouda cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Mix-ins and topping:

  • 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

---

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the roux and sauce:

   • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until lightly golden.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

3. Add the cheeses:

   • Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

4. Combine the pasta and sauce:

   • Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly. Mix in half of the crumbled bacon.

5. Prepare the topping:

   • In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter.

6. Bake (optional):

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture and remaining bacon on top.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley (if desired) and serve hot.

---

Optional Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the cheese sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli florets or roasted red peppers before baking.
• Gourmet Twist: Use a mix of gruyere, fontina, or blue cheese for a more complex flavor.