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Savory Mac and Cheese with Gouda and Bacon

Savory Mac and Cheese with Gouda and Bacon

3.34 from 3 votes
A rich and creamy mac and cheese elevated with smoky bacon and nutty Gouda cheese. This comforting dish is perfect as a main course or a hearty side, combining classic flavors with a gourmet twist.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk warmed
  • 1.5 cups shredded Gouda cheese divided
  • 0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 0.25 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs optional, for topping
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for breadcrumbs

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Add butter to the skillet with bacon fat. Once melted, whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of Gouda, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Continue stirring until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
  6. Add cooked macaroni and crispy bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  7. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese, then top with remaining 0.5 cup Gouda.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese with the other cheeses. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.