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Sausage Mac & Cheese Bake

When you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like comfort food at its finest, this Sausage Mac & Cheese Bake delivers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 14 ounces smoked sausage sliced into rounds
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2½ cups milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
  • ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, lightly brown the sausage slices in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove from heat.
  4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Continue cooking until the sauce begins to thicken.
  6. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Add garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and paprika.
  8. Combine the cooked macaroni, sausage, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl.
  9. Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  10. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
  11. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the topping is lightly golden.
  12. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Notes

  • Smoked kielbasa, turkey sausage, or chicken sausage all work well in this recipe.
  • Add diced bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
  • Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.