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Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac

Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac That's Pure Comfort

This Roasted Poblano and Smoked Gouda Mac is a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Dry Small Pasta
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 medium Poblano Peppers Adds a mild, smoky flavor
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Essential for the roux
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the béchamel sauce
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Offers richness
  • 1 tablespoon Mustard Powder Enhances flavor
  • 1/2 cup Mascarpone Cheese Gives a creamy texture
  • 1 cup Smoked Gouda Cheese Infuses a distinct smokiness
  • 1 cup Aged White Cheddar Cheese Provides depth and sharpness
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Contributes to rich flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning Adds a delightful spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for additional kick
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Boosts the smoky profile
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning
  • to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Creates a delightful crunch

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Large Pot
  • large saucepan
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your broiler on high. Cut the poblano peppers into strips and broil for 6–10 minutes until charred. Seal in a plastic bag for 10 minutes, then peel and finely chop.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the dry small pasta until al dente, about 2-3 minutes shy of the package instructions. Drain and rinse.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of heavy cream while whisking continuously until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese, 1 cup smoked gouda, 1 cup aged white cheddar, and 1 cup sharp cheddar until melted smoothly. Fold in chopped poblano peppers and additional seasonings.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix gently to ensure each noodle is coated.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs on top and bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 5mg

Notes

For a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or using spicier cheese. Prepare a day ahead and refrigerate, baking when ready.

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