Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, making sure it doesn’t brown.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Gouda until fully melted and smooth.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Optional baking: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and broil until the top is golden brown.