Description
A comforting Cajun-inspired dish featuring creamy macaroni, smoky Andouille sausage, and a blend of rich cheeses.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb pasta (cavatappi or elbow)
- 8 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced Andouille sausage until crispy.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet and whisk in the flour for about 2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream and bring to a simmer to thicken.
- Mix in the cheese until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the sautéed sausage and season with spices.
- Fold in the cooked pasta until coated in sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Adjust spice levels to fit personal tastes. Can replace Andouille with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Cajun, Mac and Cheese, Comfort Food, Andouille Sausage