Name: One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Cheese Mac
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 lb smoked Andouille or Cajun-style sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the richness of a creamy cheese sauce with the smoky, spicy kick from Cajun sausage. It’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The hearty sausage, melty cheeses, and flavorful Cajun seasoning make this dish deeply satisfying. It’s a perfect comfort food meal that feels both indulgent and easy to prepare.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
2 tablespoons butter
1 lb smoked Andouille or Cajun-style sausage, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley

directions

Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked macaroni and browned sausage back into the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: ~600 kcal per serving

Variations

I like switching up the cheeses for different flavor profiles—try pepper jack for extra spice or smoked gouda for even more smokiness. For a lighter version, I use turkey sausage and low-fat milk. Sometimes, I toss in bell peppers or spinach for added veggies and color.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm portions in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the creamy cheese sauce, so I prefer to enjoy it fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I sometimes use rotini or penne if I’m out of elbow macaroni. Any short pasta shape that holds sauce works well.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild to moderate heat level. I adjust the Cajun seasoning to my taste, and choose a milder or spicier sausage depending on my preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I make it up to a day in advance and reheat it before serving. It’s great for meal prep.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this?

I usually pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage Cheese Mac is my go-to when I want a fast, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. It’s creamy, spicy, cheesy, and totally comforting—everything I crave in a one-pan meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, this recipe never fails to impress.