Nothing beats a warm, creamy, and cheesy bowl of Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something comforting yet quick. The combination of sharp cheddar and smoky gouda cheese creates an ultra-smooth and velvety cheese sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Best of all, you can make it in just under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients!
If you love homemade mac and cheese, this Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese is about to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into the best gouda mac and cheese recipe and discover how easy it is to make.
Why You’ll Love This Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Rich & Creamy: A velvety cheese sauce made with cheddar and gouda.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it as a main course or a side dish.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh cheese.
Ingredients You Need
To make the best Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese, you will need:
Pasta:
- 1 pound uncooked macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
Cheese Sauce:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup powdered milk, diluted in 2 ½ cups of warm water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup freshly shredded gouda cheese
Optional Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- More smoked paprika for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil and season with salt.
- Add macaroni and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux (Thickening Base for the Sauce)
- In another skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
- Add all-purpose flour and stir constantly to create a smooth roux.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until it turns light brown.
3. Add Milk & Seasonings
- Slowly whisk in the diluted powdered milk, stirring constantly.
- Add salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add the Cheese
- Remove the skillet from heat and add cheddar and gouda cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.
5. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well to coat every piece with cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Sprinkle some smoked paprika on top for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm and creamy!
Tips for the Best Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese
1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
- Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Buy a block of cheddar and gouda, then shred it yourself for a creamier sauce.
2. Don’t Skip the Roux
- The roux helps thicken the cheese sauce, making it smooth and luscious.
- Stir continuously while cooking to prevent lumps.
3. Adjust the Thickness
- If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.
- If too thin, let it cook for an extra 1-2 minutes to thicken.
4. Use Quality Cheese
- Sharp cheddar gives a bold, tangy flavor.
- Smoked gouda adds a unique depth with its mild smokiness.
5. Customize Your Mac & Cheese
- Add protein: Mix in cooked bacon, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- Boost with veggies: Stir in broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
How to Store & Reheat Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat with a splash of warm milk over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Oven: Place in a baking dish, add a little milk, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 643 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 38g
- Sodium: 1241mg
- Calcium: 664mg
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the mac and cheese and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk before serving.
2. Can I Use Whole Milk Instead of Powdered Milk?
Absolutely! Use 2 ½ cups of whole milk for the creamiest texture.
3. What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
- Gruyère: Adds a nutty flavor.
- Parmesan: For extra sharpness.
- Mozzarella: For extra gooeyness.
4. Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
🧀 Creamy Stovetop Gouda Mac & Cheese – Ready in 20 Minutes! 🍽️
Description
There’s nothing like a warm, cheesy bowl of mac & cheese to bring comfort to any day. This Stovetop Gouda Mac & Cheese is ultra-creamy, rich, and packed with flavor! The combination of cheddar and gouda melts into the silkiest sauce, coating every bite of tender pasta. Best of all, it comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy side dish. One bite, and you’ll never go back to boxed mac & cheese again! Try it and let me know what you think! ❤️
Ingredients
✅ 1 lb uncooked macaroni
✅ ¼ cup unsalted butter
✅ ¼ cup all-purpose flour
✅ ¾ cup powdered milk diluted in 2 ½ cups warm water
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ¼ tsp smoked paprika
✅ 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
✅ ½ cup freshly shredded gouda cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Stir in flour and cook until golden brown.
3️⃣ Slowly add diluted powdered milk, whisking constantly. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until slightly thickened.
4️⃣ Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and gouda until melted and smooth.
5️⃣ Add the cooked pasta and mix until fully coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
6️⃣ Adjust seasoning if needed, sprinkle with extra smoked paprika, and serve hot!
Notes
🧀 Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor!
🥛 Powdered milk trick: Diluting it properly creates the creamiest mac & cheese.
❄️ Storage: Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheating: Add a splash of warm milk and heat in the oven for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving an ultra-creamy, cheesy, and satisfying mac and cheese, this Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese is a must-try! With its quick prep time, rich flavor, and smooth texture, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or as a decadent side dish.
Now that you have the best stovetop mac and cheese recipe, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy! Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra gouda on top for that extra cheesy bite. 😋🔥