Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

Serves: 8

Ingredients

• Mac & Cheese:
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded smoked gouda
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar
  • ½ cup grated parmesan
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Corn Bread Topping:
  • 2 cups cornbread stuffing mix
  • 1 jalapeño, diced
  • 5 tbsp butter, melted
  • ½ cup crispy cooked pancetta, diced
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan
  • 1 tbsp chopped sage

Directions

1. Boil pasta in salted water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, until it smells nutty.
3. Gradually add warm milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened.
4. Lower the heat and stir in all the cheese, dijon, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted.
5. Stir pasta into the cheese sauce and pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
6. Combine all topping ingredients in a bowl. Spread evenly over the top.
7. Bake about 20 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.