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Smoky, Creamy Memorial Day Mac and Cheese

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  • Author: Pamela
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Indulge in the smoky, creamy Memorial Day mac and cheese—a gourmet twist on a classic comfort dish. A luscious blend of smoked gouda and sharp cheddar envelops tender elbow macaroni, creating a rich and velvety experience. Perfect for summer gatherings, this mac and cheese is sure to steal the spotlight at your next picnic or barbecue.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup toasted bread crumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. 1. Boil the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. 2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in heavy cream, then gradually add smoked gouda and cheddar until melted and smooth.
  3. 3. Combine: Mix the cooked macaroni with cheese sauce in a bowl. If thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  4. 4. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and top with toasted breadcrumbs. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  5. 5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving alongside grilled meats or veggies.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg