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5-Ingredient Smoked Gouda-Thyme Mac and Chees

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This 5-Ingredient Smoked Gouda-Thyme Mac and Cheese is a creamy, smoky twist on the classic comfort dish. Made with just a few ingredients, it delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort — perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
  • 2 cups smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, strip thyme leaves from stems and prepare other ingredients.
  3. Return the drained pasta to the pot over low heat.
  4. Stir in butter until melted.
  5. Add shredded smoked gouda and milk, stirring constantly until cheese melts and sauce becomes creamy.
  6. Mix in fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  • Swap smoked gouda with fontina, gruyère, or white cheddar for variety.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms for more depth.
  • For spice, stir in red pepper flakes.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of milk.

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