Need a cozy dinner idea that pairs with wine? Dive into a pot of this smoked gouda mac and cheese, paired with Spoken Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon for a bold duo.
Proudly made in Washington State, Spoken Barrel bottles two bold reds, including a flavorful Cabernet Sauvignon and complex, rich Meritage Red Blend. Highlighting the exceptional quality of grapes from Washington’s famed Columbia Valley, the resulting collection is both rugged and refined – the signature of Spoken Barrel.
Speaking of rugged and refined, what is better than a cozy pot of mac and cheese, spruced up with smoked gouda?! Make this warm recipe on the coldest and pour a glass of Washington wine to pair with it. 
To go with the smoked gouda mac and cheese, we chose the Spoken Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon. This big red wine is just complex enough, with notes of dark chocolate and oak, to play well with the smokey, rich mac and cheese. It’s velvety and smooth, just like the creamy cheese pasta. Dig in!
Print
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Creamy, dreamy mac and cheese gets a smoky upgrade with Gouda and a hint of cayenne. Perfect comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 lbs (454 g) Cavatappi Pasta
- 1 1/2 cups (355 ml) whole milk
- 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 lbs (227 g) smoked Gouda (grated)
- 1/2 lbs (227 g) sharp cheddar (grated)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp ground white pepper
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cups (80 ml) chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- In a large deep-sided skillet, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, add the cavatappi pasta and 1 tsp kosher salt.
- Bring back to a boil and stir frequently for 10 minutes, until almost all the water has been absorbed and the pasta is cooked.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the remaining ingredients, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is fully combined.
- Serve the mac and cheese with a sprinkling of chives.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, blend a portion of the cheese sauce before adding it to the pasta.
- If smoked Gouda is unavailable, substitute with a similar strong cheese like Gruyere or aged cheddar.
- For best results, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose which can affect the texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 60
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the smoked gouda with another cheese?
Yes, you can substitute smoked gouda with another cheese like sharp cheddar or a combination of cheeses, but the smoky flavor will be different.
What is the best way to prepare the pasta for the mac and cheese?
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the cheese sauce.
How should I serve the mac and cheese with the Cabernet Sauvignon?
Serve the mac and cheese warm in bowls, and pour the Cabernet Sauvignon into glasses to allow its flavors to complement the richness of the dish.
