Description
This One Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Cheese Mac is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring smoky smoked sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese-infused macaroni. Prepared all in one skillet, this quick 30-minute meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with a spicy Cajun twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces macaroni
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat skillet and oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- Sauté sausage and vegetables: Add the sliced smoked sausage, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cajun seasoning: Stir in the Cajun seasoning to coat the sausage and vegetables evenly, enhancing the smoky and spicy flavors.
- Add chicken broth and boil: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine pasta and dairy: Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk to the skillet.
- Stir until creamy: Stir the ingredients continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference to enhance the overall flavor.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve the dish hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use a smoked sausage of your choice such as Andouille or Kielbasa for authentic smoky flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- For a creamier texture, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a bit of cream.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by substituting sausage with smoked tofu or tempeh and using vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
