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Cajun Mac Cheese Andouille Sausage

Irresistible Cajun Mac Cheese with Andouille Sausage Delight

This Cajun Mac Cheese with Andouille Sausage is a creamy, spicy comfort food that warms your soul.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni gluten-free optional
For the Sausage
  • 12 ounces Andouille Sausage substitute with turkey sausage if desired
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese medium or sharp variety preferred
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese mozzarella can be used
  • 1 cup Smoked Gouda substitute with another smoked cheese if needed
  • 4 tablespoons Butter or margarine for dairy-free
  • 0.25 cup Flour gluten-free flour for compliant option
  • 2 cups Whole Milk non-dairy milk can be used
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning adjust based on spice tolerance
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika regular paprika can be a substitute
  • to taste Salt and Pepper season to taste
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs regular breadcrumbs can be used
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese any hard cheese can substitute

Equipment

  • large baking dish
  • Pot
  • skillet
  • saucepan
  • Large bowl
  • whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and generously grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, typically about 7-9 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
  3. Cook the sliced Andouille sausage in a large skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until it's nicely browned.
  4. Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook 1-2 minutes until lightly colored, then gradually add milk and mix until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gouda) and all the seasonings until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni and the browned sausage in a large bowl, then pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top, tossing gently until well coated.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan with melted butter, then sprinkle this topping over the macaroni.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Allow cooling for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days; enjoy reheated for a comforting meal.

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