Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

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Prepration Time
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Total Time
  • 10 minutes
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Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Prepration Time
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Total Time
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Prepration Time
  • 25–30 minutes
Total Time
  • 45 minutes
Serving
  • 6 People

Ingradients

For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or any short pasta shape
  • Salt (for boiling water)

 

For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter for dairy-free option)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • 2 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk like cashew or oat)
  • 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
  • ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, enhances cheese flavor)
Optional Topping:
  • Breadcrumbs or panko
  • Extra shredded smoked gouda
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives
  • Crispy bacon bits or breadcrumbs for texture

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
    • Whisk in flour to make a roux; cook for 1–2 minutes without browning.
    • Gradually whisk in milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer.

  3. Add the Cheese:

    • Remove from heat and gradually stir in smoked gouda and cheddar (if using) until melted and smooth.
    • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

  4. Combine Pasta & Sauce:

    • Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.

  5. Bake (Optional):

    • Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and more cheese if desired.
    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

  6. Serve:

    • Garnish with herbs or crispy toppings and serve warm.

Pros:

  1. Creamy & Flavorful: Smoked gouda gives it a rich, savory depth that stands out from regular mac and cheese.
  2. High in Protein & Calcium: Great source of protein and bone-strengthening calcium.
  3. Comforting & Filling: Ideal for cold weather or as a satisfying side or main dish.
  4. Customizable: Can be baked, stovetop, or made creamy without baking.
  5. Great for Gatherings: Crowd-pleasing comfort food loved by both kids and adults.

Cons:

  1. High in Saturated Fat: From cheese and butter, which may affect cholesterol levels.
  2. High Sodium Content: Cheese and seasoning can add up quickly for those watching salt intake.
  3. Low in Fiber & Vitamins: Lacks vegetables unless added.
  4. Not Low-Carb/Keto Friendly: Contains pasta and milk sugars.
  5. Contains Common Allergens: Milk, gluten, and sometimes eggs—may not suit allergy sufferers.

Suitable for Aged People?

Yes, this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is generally suitable for aged individuals due to:

  • Soft Texture , making it easy to chew and digest.
  • Good Source of Protein and Calcium , important for maintaining muscle and bone strength.
  • Mild Flavor , often appealing even to seniors with reduced appetite or taste sensitivity.

However:

  • Heart Health Concerns: High saturated fat and sodium may not be ideal for those with hypertension or heart disease.
  • Digestive Sensitivity: Some seniors may find rich cheese heavy or hard to digest.
  • Nutritional Balance: Lacks fiber and vitamins unless paired with veggies or a salad.

👉 Tip: Use low-fat cheese, reduce salt, and mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrients.

⚠️ Who Should Avoid This Recipe?

This recipe may not be suitable for:

  1. People with Heart Disease: Due to high saturated fat and cholesterol.
  2. Hypertensive Individuals: High sodium content from cheese and seasoning.
  3. Lactose Intolerant or Vegan Diets: Contains dairy unless substituted.
  4. Gluten Allergy / Celiac Disease: Regular pasta contains gluten; use gluten-free pasta instead.
  5. Low-Carb or Ketogenic Dieters: Too many carbs from pasta to fit within keto guidelines.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
450
Total Fat
20g
25%
Saturated Fat
12g
60%
Cholesterol
65mg
22%
Sodium
550mg
24%
Total Carbohydrate
45g
16%
Dietary Fiber
2g
7%
Total Sugars
4g
Protein
20g
40%
Vitamin A
600 IU
12%
Vitamin C
0mg
0%
Calcium
500mg
38%
Iron
1.5mg
8%
Potassium
180mg
5%