This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for cozy nights in or family dinners. With a rich Gouda flavor and a smooth, velvety texture, it’s sure to become a fast favorite on your table.
Start by melting a tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add your bread slices and toast them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Once toasted, set them aside to cool. While that’s happening, preheat your oven to 350°F and give a 9x13-inch baking dish a quick spray with cooking spray.
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite, around 8 minutes. Drain it well and transfer it to a big mixing bowl. Once your toast has cooled, pop the slices into a resealable bag and crush them up using a rolling pin or the bottom of a saucepan until you have some nice breadcrumbs.
Now, mix your Cheddar and Gouda cheeses together and divide them into four equal piles. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt half a cup of butter. While that’s melting, whisk together a cup of milk and the cornstarch in a small bowl until the cornstarch dissolves. Slowly add this mixture to the melted butter, then gradually whisk in the remaining half cup of milk and the half-and-half. Keep whisking and cooking until the sauce thickens up to a creamy, milkshake-like consistency, about 3 to 5 minutes. Then, add two of the cheese piles, one at a time, stirring until each is fully melted.
Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir everything together so it’s well coated. Spread half of the mac and cheese into your prepared baking dish, sprinkle one pile of cheese on top, then add the rest of the mac and cheese. Top it with the remaining cheese and finish off with those crunchy breadcrumbs you made earlier.
Pop it into the oven and bake until it’s bubbly and golden on top, about 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool just a bit before digging in!
- Use sharp Gouda for a more intense cheese flavor.
- Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps and ensure smoothness.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy noodles after baking.
This dish combines creamy, melted cheese with tender pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The rich flavor of Gouda adds a unique twist to a classic favorite, making it both familiar and exciting.
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A side of crispy bacon or garlic bread also pairs well, adding texture and extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.
