Bacon Cheddar and Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese

Prepare to elevate your mac and cheese game! This smoked gouda bacon mac and cheese recipe delivers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Creamy, cheesy, and infused with the smoky goodness of gouda and the savory crunch of bacon, this dish redefines comfort food. No matter your skill level in the kitchen, get ready for a mac and cheese experience that will leave you craving more.

What You’ll Need

To create this irresistible smoked gouda and bacon mac and cheese, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Bacon: 6 strips of thick-cut bacon, for that irresistible smoky flavor that perfectly complements the gouda mac and cheese with bacon
• Pasta: 1 pound of uncooked macaroni noodles, the classic choice for a creamy mac and cheese experience
• Butter: 6 tablespoons of salted butter, divided
• Flour: 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, the base for a thick and velvety cheese sauce
• Milk: 3 cups of whole milk, adding creaminess and body to the sauce
• Seasonings: 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of stone ground mustard, to enhance the depth and complexity of flavors
• Cheeses: 1 cup of sharp cheddar, 1 cup of smoked gouda, and 1/2 cup of white cheddar, all shredded, to create a perfect blend of cheesy goodness in this smoked gouda and bacon mac and cheese
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup of Italian breadcrumbs, for a golden and crunchy topping

Bringing It All Together

Prep and Cook

Get started by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9x13" baking dish. Next, cook your macaroni according to package directions for al dente pasta. Once cooked, toss the noodles with 2 tablespoons of butter and a touch of salt. Spread this mixture into your prepared baking dish and set it aside.

Cook Bacon to a Perfect Crisp

Now, let's get that smoky flavor going! Cook your bacon until it's nice and crispy. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and reserve the bacon grease. We'll use that for extra richness in our bacon gouda mac and cheese.

Create the Sauce

If you have about 1/4 cup of bacon grease, you're good to go. If not, supplement with butter to reach that amount. Melt the fat over medium-high heat, then whisk in the flour until it turns a light brown and releases a nutty aroma. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and continue to cook, stirring occasionally.

Season and Thicken

Season your sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and mustard. Keep simmering until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. It's okay if it's still a little thin at this stage. Remove from the heat and stir in most of the shredded cheese, saving some for the topping.

Combine and Bake

Chop your cooled bacon into bits and mix it into the macaroni along with the creamy cheese sauce. Sprinkle the reserved cheese over the top and bake for 15 minutes. This is where the smoked gouda bacon mac and cheese truly starts to come together.

Breadcrumb Topping

While the mac and cheese bakes, melt the remaining butter in a pan and toss in the breadcrumbs. Cook until they're golden brown and toasted.

Finishing Touches

Once the initial baking time is up, sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese. Pop it back in the oven for another 5-8 minutes or until the breadcrumbs turn a beautiful golden color.

Serve and Enjoy! 

Your irresistible mac and cheese is ready! Serve it hot and savor the incredible blend of flavors and textures.

Customizing Your Smoked Gouda Bacon Mac and Cheese

Flavor Exploration

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations. Try adding Gruyère for a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack for a smoother melt, or even a hint of blue cheese for a bold twist.

Spice It Up or Tone It Down

For those who crave a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a welcome kick to the cheese sauce. Conversely, if you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of sharp cheddar or swap it out for a milder variety like Colby or Havarti.

Dietary Considerations 

This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary needs. Use gluten-free macaroni and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version. To create a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and replace the bacon grease with vegetable broth or olive oil when making the roux. The result will still be a creamy and flavorful gouda mac and cheese that everyone can enjoy.

Topping Options

Take your mac and cheese to the next level with various toppings. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, while fresh herbs like parsley or chives lend a touch of brightness. For a more indulgent experience, try topping with caramelized onions or crispy fried shallots.

Perfect Pairings

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your smoked gouda and bacon mac and cheese with complementary sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac and cheese. Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and flavorful element. Pair your mac and cheese with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.

Wrapping Up

There you have it, a decadent smoked gouda and bacon mac and cheese recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Its smoky, cheesy, and savory blend offers a comforting yet sophisticated dish. 

But why stop there? Your culinary journey doesn't have to end here. Visit our website to discover a treasure trove of gourmet food finds and elevate your everyday meals into extraordinary feasts.