Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

This is one of those recipes that turns a simple side dish into the star of the meal. Rich smoked gouda, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a creamy homemade cheese sauce come together for a mac and cheese that's perfect alongside BBQ, brisket, ribs, pulled pork, or as a meal all on its own.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pasta
  • 2 cups smoked gouda, freshly grated
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tbsp Crove Food Co. Beef Rub & Seasoning
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

How to Make Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Build the Cheese Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 60 seconds to form a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously. Add the Crove Beef Rub, Cajun seasoning, chili powder, and red pepper flakes. Continue stirring until smooth.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the smoked gouda and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is silky smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions.

Drain the pasta and immediately fold it into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 4: Bake for the Perfect Finish

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a cast iron skillet or baking dish. Top with crumbled bacon and an extra handful of cheddar cheese.

Bake for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and a light golden crust begins to form.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot alongside your favorite barbecue meats or enjoy it as the main event.

Sam's Tips

  • Freshly grate your cheese for the smoothest sauce.
  • Smoked gouda can be strong, so pairing it with cheddar keeps the flavor balanced.
  • Want even more smoke? Cook it in a pellet grill at 375°F instead of the oven.
  • This recipe is incredible topped with pulled pork, brisket, or burnt ends.

What to Serve with Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

  • Smoked pulled pork
  • Brisket
  • Baby back ribs
  • BBQ chicken
  • Pork belly burnt ends
  • Grilled sausage

The Bottom Line

If you're looking for a mac and cheese that can hold its own next to great barbecue, this Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is it. The combination of smoky gouda, sharp cheddar, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon creates a side dish that people will ask for again and again.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6-8 people