Description

Bold, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy, this One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac is a quick dinner hero you’ll crave again and again. Loaded with smoky sausage, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack, and seasoned with a kick of Cajun spice, this easy recipe delivers serious comfort food vibes in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a hearty comfort food fix, or a one-pan wonder to impress the family, this dish checks all the boxes. The smoky, spicy notes paired with gooey cheese and pasta make this an unforgettable favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

12 oz smoked Cajun sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Sear sliced sausage until browned on both sides, 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, 3–4 minutes.
Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Lower the heat, then add in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
Fold the pasta and browned sausage into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Optional: Broil the skillet for 2–4 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes