Creamy Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese – Ultimate Comfort Food!

Introduction

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, but when you add roasted poblano peppers and smoked gouda, it transforms into something truly special. This Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, smokiness, and mild spice, making it a dish you’ll crave over and over again. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal, a crowd-pleasing side, or a new twist on a classic, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Roasted Poblanos:

• 2 poblano peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups smoked gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Topping (Optional):

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Poblanos

1. Preheat your broiler or oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Roast for 5-7 minutes per side, until the skin is charred and blistered.
4. Remove from the oven and place the peppers in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or a sealed bag for 10 minutes.
5. Peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and dice the roasted poblano peppers. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
7. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (according to package instructions). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

8. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
9. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
10. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps.
11. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
12. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
13. Lower the heat and add smoked gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted.

Step 4: Combine Everything

14. Stir in the roasted poblano peppers.
15. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping (Optional)

16. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and smoked paprika.
17. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 6: Bake (Optional, for a Crispy Top)

18. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
19. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and top with the breadcrumb mixture.
20. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

21. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled chicken or crispy bacon for added protein.
• Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
• Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While smoked gouda provides a rich, smoky flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or Havarti for different textures and tastes.

2. Are poblano peppers spicy?

Poblano peppers have a mild heat level, making them a great choice for adding flavor without overwhelming spice. If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when ready to serve.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a mac and cheese recipe that is creamy, smoky, and packed with gourmet flavor, this Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese is a must-try. The roasted poblanos add a unique depth of flavor, while the smoked gouda brings that irresistible richness that makes this dish unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and elevate your mac and cheese game to the next level!

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