Spicy-Sweet Poblano & Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy mac and cheese takes an exciting turn with this poblano smoked gouda mac and cheese recipe that brings together bold southwestern flavors and rich, melty cheese.

Smoky gouda adds a luxurious depth to every comforting bite of tender pasta.

The poblano peppers introduce a gentle warmth and subtle smokiness that dance beautifully with the cheese complex profile.

These roasted green chiles contribute a mild heat that doesn’t overwhelm but instead enhances the dish’s overall character.

Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, this mac and cheese elevates the classic comfort food to a gourmet experience.

cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts will find themselves reaching for seconds of this irresistible culinary creation.

Prepare to be delighted by each savory, cheesy spoonful that promises pure deliciousness.

Switch Things Up – Gouda Mac and Cheese Ideas

• Vegan Cashew Mac: Replace gouda with blended cashew cream, use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, swap dairy cream for plant-based milk, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for added dietary flexibility.
• Spicy Jalapeño Version: Substitute poblano peppers with diced jalapeños for extra heat, add pepper jack cheese for more kick, include cayenne pepper in the sauce for increased spiciness.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Replace pasta with riced cauliflower, use almond flour instead of wheat flour for roux, maintain smoked gouda for rich flavor, keep original roasting technique for peppers.
• Protein-Packed Option: Mix in diced chicken or crispy bacon bits, incorporate Greek yogurt for protein boost, use whole wheat pasta for added nutrition, maintain original cheese and pepper preparation methods.

Best Ways to Serve Poblano Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

• Southwestern Fiesta Plate: Serve this creamy mac and cheese alongside grilled chicken or spicy pulled pork for a hearty Mexican-inspired meal that packs flavor punch.
• Fresh Garnish Delight: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, diced green onions, or pickled jalapeños on top to add bright colors and zesty freshness to the dish.
• Crispy Crunch Companion: Pair with crunchy tortilla chips, cornbread, or a light green salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy texture of the mac and cheese.
• Comfort Meal Upgrade: Transform this mac and cheese into a complete dinner by adding protein like shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon bits directly into the casserole before baking.

Storage Tips for Gouda Mac and Cheese

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring it's sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss.
• Transfer mac and cheese to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months, wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place mac and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

• What makes poblano peppers special in this mac and cheese?

Poblano peppers add a rich, mild heat and smoky depth that elevates the classic mac and cheese, providing a distinctive southwestern twist with their complex flavor profile.

• Can I use a different type of cheese if I don't have smoked gouda?

While smoked gouda gives a unique smoky flavor, you can substitute with regular gouda, sharp cheddar, or a blend of cheeses to maintain a similar creamy texture and rich taste.

• How do I know when the poblano peppers are properly roasted?

The poblano peppers are ready when the skin is completely blackened and blistered. This charring process helps easily remove the skin and intensifies the pepper’s natural flavor.

Poblano Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese – Reasons to Savor

• Transform classic mac and cheese into a gourmet experience with smoky poblano peppers and rich gouda, creating a sophisticated twist on a beloved dish.
• Learn professional cooking skills like roasting peppers, making a roux, and creating a creamy cheese sauce, boosting your culinary confidence.
• Impress friends and family with a restaurant-quality mac and cheese that brings unexpected depth and complexity to the table.
• Easily adapt the recipe by swapping cheeses or adding different mix-ins to suit your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.

Ingredients List for Poblano Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese

• Poblano Peppers: Fresh green peppers that provide a mild, smoky flavor and subtle heat to the mac and cheese.
• Pasta: The foundational element that creates the classic mac and cheese texture and absorbs the creamy sauce.
• Smoked Gouda Cheese: A rich, smoky cheese that adds depth and complexity to the dish's flavor profile.

• Butter, Flour: These ingredients combine to create a blonde roux that serves as the base for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Provides richness and helps create a luxurious, velvety sauce texture.
• Mustard Powder: Adds a subtle tangy undertone that enhances the overall cheese flavor.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's overall taste.
• Breadcrumbs: Provide a crispy, golden topping that adds textural contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Gear Needed for Gouda Mac & Cheese Creation

• Large pot: For boiling pasta and creating roux.
• Broiler pan: To char poblano peppers under high heat.
• Whisk: Essential for creating smooth roux and blending sauce.
• Cutting board: For chopping poblano peppers.
• Sharp knife: To slice and prepare poblano peppers.
• Mixing bowl: For tossing pasta with sauce and peppers.
• Baking dish: To assemble and bake mac and cheese.
• Cheese grater: For shredding smoked gouda and other cheeses.
• Colander: To drain cooked pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.

Stepwise Guide for Poblano Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Char Poblano Peppers

Place poblano pepper strips skin-side up under broiler.

Roast until skin becomes completely blackened and blistered.

Transfer hot peppers into sealed plastic bag to steam and cool.

Once cooled, gently peel off charred skin.

Step 2: Prepare Pasta

Bring large pot of salted water to rolling boil.

Add pasta and cook approximately 75% of recommended package time, ensuring pasta remains slightly firm.

Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Create Roux Foundation

Melt butter in heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.

Gradually whisk in flour, stirring constantly until mixture turns light golden and develops nutty aroma.

Continue stirring to prevent burning.

Step 4: Develop Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour cream into roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

Add mustard powder for depth of flavor.

Simmer and stir until sauce thickens and coats back of wooden spoon.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese Blend

• Smoked Gouda
• Sharp cheddar
• Monterey jack

Stir until completely melted and sauce becomes silky smooth.

Step 6: Season and Enhance

• Chopped roasted poblanos
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

Stir to distribute flavors evenly.

Step 7: Assemble Casserole

Transfer cooked pasta into cheese sauce.

Fold gently to coat evenly.

Pour mixture into greased baking dish.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs across top for crunchy texture.

Step 8: Bake and Finish

Bake in preheated oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes.

Switch to broiler setting and cook additional 2-3 minutes until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy.

Gouda Mac & Cheese – Advice for Greatness

• Watch poblanos under broiler closely, rotating to ensure even charring without scorching.
• Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs sauce better and prevents mushy final dish during baking.
• Whisk continuously while adding cream to prevent lumps and achieve creamy, velvety consistency.
• Combine smoked gouda with sharp cheddar for complex, rich flavor profile that enhances overall taste.
• Toast breadcrumbs briefly before adding to ensure golden, crispy crust without burning during final broiling.

Poblano Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Poblano smoked gouda mac and cheese brings comfort and bold southwestern flavors to classic pasta. Rich cheese sauce and roasted peppers create a memorable dish that satisfies deep cravings for hearty, delicious comfort food.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 poblano peppers
• 4 cups small pasta
• 1/3 cup smoked gouda cheese
• 1/3 cup aged white cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 1/4 cups heavy cream

Cheese and Sauce Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons mustard powder

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Position oven rack near broiler and place poblano peppers skin-side up. Char peppers until skin turns completely black and blistered, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Transfer roasted peppers to sealed plastic bag and allow to steam for 10 minutes. Carefully peel off charred skin and slice peppers into thin strips.
3. Fill large pot with salted water and bring to rolling boil. Cook pasta for approximately 6-7 minutes, ensuring pasta remains slightly firm and underdone.
4. In separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour, stirring continuously until mixture turns golden and releases nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Slowly incorporate cream and mustard powder into roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until sauce thickens and coats back of spoon.
6. Reduce heat and gradually fold in smoked gouda and additional cheeses. Stir until completely melted and sauce appears smooth and glossy.
7. Incorporate roasted poblano strips and seasonings into cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
8. Drain pasta and fold into cheese mixture, ensuring each noodle is well coated. Transfer to greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs across top.
9. Bake in preheated 350°F oven for 15-18 minutes. Finish under broiler for 2-3 minutes until breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• Roast poblanos carefully to avoid burning, ensuring even char for easy skin removal.
• Undercook pasta slightly to prevent mushiness during final baking stage.
• Create smooth sauce by whisking gradually and maintaining consistent medium heat.
• Use freshly grated cheese for superior melting and creamier texture.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 63 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg