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Easy Gochujang Mac and Cheese

Gochujang Mac n' Cheese delivers a captivating combo of spicy and cheesy flavors! Bring the bold flavors of Korean cuisine to your Thanksgiving table with this easy-to-prepare recipe. It can be easily scaled up to serve larger crowds, and is sure to impress your guests as they savor each forkful.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian, Korean
Keyword: game day food, korean mac and cheese, potluck, spicy mac and cheese, thanksgiving food
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Equipment

Ingredients

Gochujang Mac and Cheese

  • 1 lb macaroni noodles
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter half a stick
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp gochujang Korean red pepper paste, adjust to spice preference
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded gruyere plus more for topping
  • 1 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar plus more for topping
  • butter or oil spray for greasing the pan

Spicy Crumb Topping

  • ½ cup panko Japanese style bread crumbs
  • 1 tbsp gochugaru Korean red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare Noodles and Topping

  • Boil the macaroni noodles, removing them from heat just before they reach al dente (1 minute less than package instructions.) Drain the water. Do not rinse with cold water.
  • Combine the spicy crumb topping ingredients. Mix until everything is evenly distributed - shaking it for 10 seconds in a closed container works very well.

Make Cheese Sauce

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk in the flour gradually until mixed well.
  • Add gochujang and continue whisking until it forms a paste.
  • While whisking, pour in the milk. Gently heat the mixture until it begins to bubble.
  • Add the shredded cheeses. Continue whisking and cooking until the cheeses are fully melted. Remove from heat and set aside.

Combine and Bake

  • Combine the macaroni noodles with the cheese sauce. Mix well, being careful not to crush or tear at the pasta.
  • Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
  • Top with extra gruyere and cheddar. Then add the spicy crumb topping.
  • Bake at 350℉ for 10-15 minutes until the topping is nice and crisp.

Notes

Note 1. Gochujang can be purchased at Asian grocery stores like H-Mart, 99 Ranch, and Weee! Asian Grocery App. It comes in a range of spice levels so you can choose the spice option that is best for you.
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