Ingredients
✓ 2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling pasta)
✓ 8 ounces white or yellow cheddar (2 cups)
✓ 8 ounces smoked gouda (2 cups)
✓ 4 ounces cream cheese
✓ 4 ounces deli American cheese (about 6 slices)
✓ 2 cups whole milk
✓ 1 cup evaporated milk
✓ 1 pound macaroni pasta
✓ 3 tablespoons butter (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing pan)
✓ ¼ cup flour
✓ 2 tablespoons hot sauce
✓ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
✓ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✓ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✓ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✓ ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
✓ ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
✓ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
✓ Cook macaroni pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
✓ In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
✓ Gradually add whole milk and evaporated milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
✓ Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese, cheddar, and smoked gouda until fully melted.
✓ Add deli American cheese, hot sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne.
✓ Stir in the drained pasta and mix well.
✓ Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown on top.
✓ Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or substitute half-and-half for whole milk. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 15