Lavender and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

#MacAndCheese #BestRecipeEver #ComfortFood #CheeseLovers #HomemadeCooking #TastyMeals #FoodiesOfInstagram #CookingLife #CheesyDelights #KitchenMasterpiece

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Lavender-Infused Milk
  • 1.5 cups of Smoked Gouda Cheese (grated)
  • 1 cup of Sharp White Cheddar (grated)
  • 1/2 cup of Italian Bread Crumbs
  • 1/2 cup of Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 2 cups of Elbow Macaroni
  • 1/4 cup of Unsalted Butter
  • 1/4 cup of All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Dry Mustard
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • A handful of Fresh Thyme

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, according to the packet instructions. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously until a light roux forms.
  4. Gradually add the lavender-infused milk, continuing to whisk until smooth and creamy. Add the dry mustard and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Turn the heat down to low and add the smoked gouda and sharp white cheddar, stirring until the cheese is completely melted into the sauce.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mix until the macaroni is well-coated.
  7. Place the macaroni mixture into a baking dish, evenly topping with a mix of Italian and panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Lavender and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a lightly dressed green salad or steamed vegetables. Enjoy this gourmet twist on a family favorite!