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This Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe is amazing. It is creamy, smoky, and very cheesy.

Everyone loves a good mac and cheese dish. This version uses smoked gouda for a deep flavor.

It is perfect for family dinners or parties. You will love how easy it is to make.

This Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe tastes like a dream. It is much better than the boxed kind.

Follow this guide to learn how to make Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese.

Your kitchen will smell like heaven very soon. Let us start cooking this tasty meal!

When I first introduced to Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

I first tried this recipe at a potluck. My friend brought a big, warm tray. It looked so golden and bubbly.

I took one big scoop of it. The smoky taste surprised me right away. It was not like normal mac and cheese.

It felt fancy but also very cozy. I asked her for the secret ingredient. She told me it was smoked gouda cheese.

I went home and searched for the recipe. I found the Pioneer Woman version online. Now, I make it for every holiday.

My family asks for it every single week. It is a true crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Equipment List

Large pot for boiling pasta.
Colander to drain water.
Large saucepan for the sauce.
Whisk for smooth mixing.
Baking dish (9×13 inch).
Cheese grater for fresh cheese.
Measuring cups and spoons.

Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

1 pound elbow macaroni pasta.
4 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
1/4 cup salted butter.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
3 cups whole milk.
1/2 cup heavy cream.
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika.
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the Macaroni

Cook your pasta in salted boiling water. Follow the package directions for timing. Cook it until it is “al dente.” This means it is still slightly firm.

2. Drain the Pasta

Pour the pasta into a colander. Drain all the water out well. Set the cooked macaroni aside for now.

3. Make the Roux

Melt butter in a large saucepan. Use medium heat so it does not burn. Add the flour to the melted butter. Whisk them together for about one minute.

4. Add Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and cream. Keep whisking while you pour it in. This prevents lumps from forming in sauce. Cook until the mixture gets thick.

5. Season the Sauce

Add the mustard powder and black pepper. Stir in the smoked paprika for color. This adds a nice kick to the base.

6. Melt the Cheese

Turn the heat down to very low. Add 3 cups of the smoked gouda. Add all of the sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted.

7. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every single noodle. It should look very creamy and thick.

8. Prepare for Baking

Grease your baking dish with some butter. Pour the mac and cheese into it. Spread it out evenly with a spoon.

9. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the remaining smoked gouda on top. Add the Panko breadcrumbs over the cheese. This adds a great crunch to every bite.

10. Bake the Dish

Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. The top should be bubbly and brown. Serve it warm to your hungry guests.

Tips to Make the Best Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has a waxy coating. Fresh cheese melts much smoother and tastes better.
Do not overcook the pasta. It will cook more in the oven. Mushy noodles are not good for this recipe.
Use whole milk. This makes the sauce much richer and creamier. Skim milk makes the sauce too thin.

Add salt slowly. The cheese is already quite salty. Taste the sauce before adding extra salt.
Try different toppings. You can add crushed crackers instead of Panko. Bacon bits also taste great on top.
Let it rest. Wait five minutes before serving the dish. This helps the sauce set around the noodles.

FAQs about Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Can I use regular gouda instead?

Yes, you can use regular gouda cheese. However, you will lose the smoky flavor.

How do I store the leftovers?

Put leftovers in an airtight glass container. Keep them in the fridge for three days.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw it in the fridge before you bake.

What goes well with this dish?

It goes great with grilled chicken. A green salad also balances the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Pioneer Woman Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe is a winner. It is the ultimate comfort food for any day.

The smoky cheese makes it taste very special. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. It is also fancy enough for a holiday.

Your friends will definitely ask for the recipe. I hope you enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite of it.

Cooking at home is a great way to show love. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. Happy cooking to you and your family!