Description
This Cajun Mac and Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining creamy white cheddar cheese sauce with spicy andouille sausage and red peppers. Baked to golden perfection and topped with smoked paprika, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Sausage
- 2 and 1/2 cups uncooked elbow noodle pasta
- 6 andouille sausages, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese Sauce
- 2 8oz blocks of white Cheddar cheese, grated (approximately 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Smoked paprika (for topping, about 1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked elbow noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Peppers and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red pepper and andouille sausage. Cook until the peppers are tender and the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 and 1/2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in 4 cups of grated white cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed peppers and sausage, and cheese sauce. Mix well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Mac and Cheese!
Notes
- Use a sharp white cheddar for the best flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- For a crunchier topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Substitute andouille sausage with smoked sausage if unavailable.
