Name: Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 and 1/2 cups uncooked elbow noodle pasta; 6 andouille sausages, diced; 1 red pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 and 1/2 cups milk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 8oz blocks of white Cheddar cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Smoked paprika

Jump to Recipe

Get ready for a flavor-packed adventure with this Cajun Mac and Cheese! Imagine the ultimate comfort food—creamy macaroni and cheese—kicked up a notch with spicy andouille sausage, sweet red bell pepper, and the unmistakable smokiness of Cajun seasoning. This dish is rich and cheesy, with a gentle heat and a gorgeous golden crust. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just looking to shake up your weeknight dinner rotation, Cajun Mac and Cheese delivers satisfying Southern flair in every delicious forkful!

Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cajun Mac and Cheese lies in its balance of simple, familiar ingredients and bold, exciting extras. Each item brings something special to the table, whether it’s creamy texture, savory depth, or a hit of irresistible spice.

Elbow noodle pasta: The classic shape holds onto that luscious sauce perfectly, so every bite is cheesy.
Andouille sausages: Go for authentic Cajun-style sausages—they provide smoky, spicy flavor in every bite.
Red pepper: Adds sweetness, color, and a fresh splash against all the richness.
Olive oil: Just a bit gets those peppers and sausage sizzling and caramelized.
White Cheddar cheese: Freshly grated is best for smooth melting and big flavor.
Butter: Essential for the roux in your creamy cheese sauce—don’t skip!
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce and gives it just the right texture.
Milk: Brings creaminess and softens the cheese for that dreamy mac and cheese consistency.
Salt: Just a touch to balance the flavors (and remember, your Cajun seasoning probably has some salt, too).
Cajun seasoning: The signature spice blend that transforms this from classic to Southern star.
Smoked paprika: For color and a final whisper of smoky sweetness on top.

How to Make Cajun Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Sauté Toppings

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your elbow noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—they’ll absorb just the right amount of sauce later. While the pasta is bubbling away, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in your diced red pepper and andouille sausage. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes. You want those sausages deeply browned and the peppers softened and sweet. Once ready, use a slotted spoon to transfer everything to a bowl, leaving behind any excess oil, and carefully wipe the pan clean.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pan, melt your butter over medium heat—it’s the base of your unbelievably creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the flour and salt, whisking until combined to make a fragrant roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to keep lumps at bay. Keep cooking until the mixture is smooth and just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low, then add most of your shredded white Cheddar cheese (save a bit for that gorgeous topping). Stir until the cheese is fully melted, then mix in the Cajun seasoning. The kitchen will smell incredible and now you’re just moments away from assembling!

Step 3: Combine, Finish, and Bake

Gently fold the cooked noodles, peppers, and sausage into the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is gloriously coated and there are no dry spots—this is Cajun Mac and Cheese in the making. Pour the mixture into your favorite baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese generously over the top, and then dust with smoked paprika for knockout color and flavor. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then transfer to the broiler for a few minutes until the top is bubbling and perfectly browned. Don’t wander off—keep a close eye so it gets toasty but doesn’t burn! Let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in. For extra zing, sprinkle a bit more Cajun seasoning before serving.

How to Serve Cajun Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way for both presentation and flavor. Try a sprinkle of sliced green onions for color and crunch, or add more smoked paprika or fresh cracked black pepper for a dash of drama. Fresh chopped parsley, a few extra shavings of white Cheddar, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate your Cajun Mac and Cheese to restaurant-worthy heights.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness of your mac and cheese with fresh, zesty sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect partner, or go classic Southern with skillet cornbread. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans also make wonderful (and easy) additions to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Cajun Mac and Cheese family-style straight from a big, steaming casserole dish for a cozy vibe, or get playful by piling it into mini ramekins for individual servings. For parties, spoon it into small cups or bake into muffin tins—mac and cheese cupcakes, anyone? Pair with a nice cold beer or a glass of sweet tea for ultimate Southern comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cajun Mac and Cheese stores beautifully! Transfer any extra into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days, making for fantastic lunches or easy weeknight dinners. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent unwanted condensation.

Freezing

If you’re planning ahead or want to save some for a rainy day, Cajun Mac and Cheese freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label with the date, and you can keep them frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To revive your leftovers, reheat gently in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quick fix, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. If the sauce has thickened up, just add a splash of milk and stir before heating to bring back that luscious, creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow noodles are classic, you can use shells, cavatappi, or even penne—just look for a pasta shape that holds sauce well for the full Cajun Mac and Cheese experience.

What if I can’t find andouille sausage?

No worries—Kielbasa or another smoked sausage makes a great substitute, though you’ll miss a bit of that signature Cajun flavor. If you want to add more heat, a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce does the trick.

How spicy is Cajun Mac and Cheese?

It has a gentle kick from the Cajun seasoning and andouille, but it’s not blow-your-head-off hot! Feel free to adjust the spice level—use a mild Cajun blend or add an extra pinch for more fire.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. All the fabulous Cajun Mac and Cheese flavor, minus the gluten worries.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Definitely. Omit the andouille sausage and load up on sautéed mushrooms, extra peppers, or roasted veggies for a hearty and satisfying take on Cajun Mac and Cheese. The cheese and seasoning bring plenty of flavor even without the meat.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Mac and Cheese brings a parade of flavors to your table—cheesy, smoky, and with just enough Southern spice to keep things exciting. It’s comforting yet bold, cozy yet lively, and every bite feels like a celebration. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite at your table!

Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the spicy goodness of Cajun Mac and Cheese, a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. This recipe combines tender elbow noodles with savory andouille sausages, red peppers, and a creamy, Cajun-spiced cheese sauce, all baked to perfection.

Instructions

Cook Noodles: Boil water and cook elbow noodles. In a pan, sauté red peppers and andouille until browned. Remove and set aside.
Prepare Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, add flour and salt. Gradually pour in milk, then add shredded cheese and Cajun seasoning. Stir until smooth.
Combine and Bake: Mix noodles, peppers, sausage, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and paprika. Bake and broil until golden brown.