One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s just something magical about comfort food that comes together in one skillet. If you’re craving bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and a dish that satisfies the whole family, this One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Mac and Cheese is for you.

Here’s why it’s a go-to dinner winner:

One-pan simplicity – Fewer dishes, less hassle, and more time to relax.
Deep, smoky flavors – Thanks to cajun seasoning, smoked sausage, and cheese, every bite is rich and satisfying.
Quick and easy – From stove to plate in under 45 minutes.
Family-friendly – Even picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Customizable – Swap the sausage, choose your cheese, or sneak in some veggies.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this creamy sausage mac hits the spot every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Keep it simple in the kitchen—here’s what you’ll need:

Large skillet or sauté pan – Preferably 12 inches and oven-safe.
Wooden spoon – For stirring without damaging pan surfaces.
Chef’s knife – To slice sausage and dice veggies.
Cutting board – Keep your stations tidy and organized.
Measuring cups and spoons – Precision makes perfect flavor.
Grater – Freshly shredded cheese melts like a dream.

No fancy appliances required – this is rustic cooking at its best.

Preparation Tips

Want to make your cooking smoother and faster? These tips will help:

Prep ingredients ahead – Dice your onions, slice the sausage, and shred cheese earlier in the day to save time later.
Use smoked sausage for more flavor – Kielbasa or Andouille adds extra depth.
Grate your cheese fresh – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which prevent smooth melting.
Warm your liquids slightly – Adding warm broth or milk reduces the time it takes to simmer.
Customize spice level – Want more kick? Toss in extra cayenne or hot sauce!

Have everything ready before the stove heats up—trust me, it’s way less stressful that way.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this cheesy cajun classic:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (Andouille preferred)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional: fresh parsley or green onion, chopped (for garnish)

Tip: Look for Cajun seasoning without added salt if you’re watching your sodium. You can always season to taste later.

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these easy steps for mac and cheese success:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned and slightly crispy on the edges—about 5–6 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan until translucent and fragrant—2–3 minutes.
Return sausage to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add pasta and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well to combine everything.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Optional: For a bubbly, golden top, place the skillet under a broiler for 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, smoky goodness!

You’ll notice the aroma is downright irresistible once the cheese starts melting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Avoid these common ones:

Overcooking the pasta – It’ll turn mushy. Cook just until al dente while remembering it continues cooking off heat.
Using pre-shredded cheese – It won’t melt as smoothly. Fresh is best!
Adding too much salt early – Cajun seasoning and sausage already contain salt. Taste before adding more.
Leaving it unattended – Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.

Keep an eye on texture and taste as you go. Your skillet will thank you.

Best Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with:

Cornbread – Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the spice.
Garden salad – Crisp greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette contrast the richness.
Steamed green beans or broccoli – Something light and fresh to round out your plate.
Southern coleslaw – Creamy crunch brings cool relief to the Cajun heat.

Add a light veggie side and you’ve got a well-rounded weeknight dinner.

Expert Recipe Tips

Want to take things up a notch? Try these pro tips:

Add a smoky kick with a few dashes of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.
Swap the sausage – Use turkey sausage for a leaner option or vegan sausage for a plant-based twist.
Creamier texture? Add a splash of heavy cream at the end or fold in cream cheese.
Make it spicy – Toss in jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce.
Add veggies – Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms taste great and add nutrients.

Make this recipe your own – it’s flexible and forgiving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storage: Let the mac and cheese cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Rewarm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to revive the creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring each time.

Avoid microwaving too long at once—slow and steady keeps it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap regular macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on the cooking time—it tends to cook quicker.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

No problem. Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and skip the green chilies. Add extra cheese for a milder, kid-friendly version.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gouda all work beautifully. Blend your favorites for unique flavor.

How do I make this vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage or substitute with sautéed mushrooms for a savory, meaty texture. Swap chicken broth for veggie broth.

Can I bake this instead of cooking it on the stove?

Yes! After bringing everything to a simmer, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm, hearty meal that comforts and satisfies all in one bite. This One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Mac and Cheese brings together bold flavors, creamy texture, and serious ease—making it one of those “keep forever” recipes.

Whether it’s your first time making a one-pan pasta or you’re already a mac and cheese lover, this Cajun twist is guaranteed to spice up your weeknight dinner routine.

Have you tried it yet? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your version in the comments, and don’t forget to pin or share this recipe with friends and fellow foodies.

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Happy cooking—and as always, from our kitchen to yours, enjoy every bite! 🍽️