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Cajun Mac and Cheese with Andouille Sausage

Creamy, spicy, and smoky mac and cheese loaded with Cajun flavor and seared Andouille sausage — a Southern comfort classic perfect for dinner or entertaining.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Sausage
  • 12 oz Andouille sausage sliced
  • 1 tsp olive oil or butter
Topping
  • 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp butter melted
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta until al dente and set aside.
  2. Brown Andouille sausage slices in olive oil; remove and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, make a roux with butter and flour, whisking for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until thickened.
  5. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Remove from heat; stir in all cheeses until melted.
  7. Combine pasta, sausage, and cheese sauce.
  8. Transfer to baking dish, top with breadcrumb mixture, and bake 15–20 minutes.
  9. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.