Description
This Cajun Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy white cheddar cheese sauce with spicy andouille sausage, sautéed red peppers, and a touch of smoked paprika for a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Baked to perfection, it makes a hearty and satisfying single serving meal with bold Cajun flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 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 (about 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow noodle pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Peppers and Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red pepper and andouille sausage pieces. Sauté until the peppers are tender and the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- 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 to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes without browning. Gradually whisk in 1 and 1/2 cups of milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups grated white Cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed red peppers, and sausage with the cheese sauce until evenly combined. Top with additional grated cheese and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use whole milk for a creamier sauce or substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
- To save time, you can prepare the sauce while the pasta cooks.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
