If you’re craving comfort food that wraps you in warmth with every bite, I have just the thing: my Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe. This isn’t just any mac and cheese—it’s decadently cheesy, perfectly spiced, and loaded with savory sausage that brings so much flavor and heartiness. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your go-to weeknight dinners (or weekend indulgences!). So, grab your apron and let’s make something truly comforting together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and meaty, it hits every note you want for a cozy meal.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Everyday pantry staples come together to create a sauce that’s ridiculously delicious.
- Customizable Heat: Whether you like mild, sweet, or hot sausage, you control the spice level effortlessly.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy nights or casual dinner parties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe, you’ll want ingredients that build depth and creaminess without any fuss. Each one works together to create that silky, cheesy magic, plus a touch of savory sausage goodness. When shopping, opt for freshly grated sharp white cheddar–it truly makes all the difference.
- Dry elbow pasta: Classic shape for holding onto creamy sauce; don’t overcook or it gets mushy!
- Bulk Italian sausage: Pick mild, sweet, or hot—your choice for the perfect punch of flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness when making the roux; go for unsalted so you can control the salt.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Helps sauté onions nicely without burning; adds subtle fruitiness.
- Yellow onion: Gives a sweet, aromatic base that compliments sausage beautifully.
- Garlic: Just a couple cloves to layer in that warm, comforting flavor.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly when making the roux.
- Milk: Use whole milk for that luscious creaminess; you can substitute 2% if needed.
- Black pepper, smoked paprika & ground mustard: Essential spice trio that jazzes up the cheese sauce with depth.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: Freshly grated, never pre-shredded, to keep the sauce silky and avoid clumping.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly—adjust to your taste.
- Fresh parsley or chives: Brightens the rich dish with a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Variations
I love that this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe is so flexible—you can tweak it to fit your mood, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge. Feel free to swap out or add ingredients that make it your own cozy masterpiece.
- Make it Spicy: When I want a kick, I swap mild sausage for hot Italian and add a pinch of red pepper flakes—family still loves it!
- Vegetarian Twist: Try spicy vegetarian sausage or add sautéed mushrooms instead of meat; the sauce stays just as indulgent.
- Cheese Blend: Mixing in some gruyere or mozzarella gives a nice gooey stretch and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux, and you’re good to go—I’ve tried it, and it works beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Boil Your Pasta Perfectly
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this flavors the pasta inside and out. Add your elbow pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. Pro tip: Drain it just before it’s fully soft because it’ll keep cooking a bit once you add it to the sauce. Nobody likes mushy mac and cheese!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage for Maximum Flavor
While the pasta cooks, heat a large pot over medium heat and add your bulk Italian sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon into small, crumbled pieces. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink inside. This step delivers juicy, savory bites throughout. Once done, transfer it to a bowl and set aside so you can use the same pot for the sauce (flavor saver!).
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Build the Sauce Base
Into that same pot, add butter and extra virgin olive oil—trust me, the combo really lends richness and prevents burning. Toss in diced yellow onions and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add minced garlic and stir just until fragrant, about 1 minute—don’t let it burn! This base gives you those warm, inviting flavors that create the soul of your sauce.
Step 4: Make the Roux and Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute—this cooks out the raw flour taste while starting your thickening magic. Slowly whisk in the milk a little at a time to avoid lumps. Then add your black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard. Keep stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens to that perfect creamy, soup-like consistency—about 10 minutes. This slow build is key for smooth, luxurious cheese sauce.
Step 5: Melt in Cheese and Combine
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in your freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese until smooth and silky. Add salt and extra pepper to taste—this is where the flavor balances out beautifully. Then, toss in the drained pasta and the browned sausage. Stir gently until every bite is coated with that creamy, cheesy goodness. The moment you mix it all together, the kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma I know you’ll love.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve Immediately
To finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top. The burst of color and hint of freshness brighten up this rich dish. Serve it hot, and get ready for some happy smiles around the table!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded melts better for creamier sauce—pre-packaged shreds are coated to prevent clumping and don’t melt as nicely.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: I learned the hard way that mushy noodles spoil the texture; al dente is your friend here!
- Stir Constantly While Thickening: This avoids lumps and prevents burning on the bottom—patience makes perfect cheese sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings Last: Cheese adds saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt to avoid over-seasoning.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
I always top mine with freshly chopped parsley or chives—not just for the pop of color but because they add a subtle brightness that cuts through all that creamy richness. Sometimes, a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or bacon bits is a delicious indulgence if I’m feeling extra fancy.
Side Dishes
I love pairing this with simple green veggies like steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts. A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette also works wonders to balance the richness. When I want a heartier meal, some garlic bread on the side never disappoints.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving this mac and cheese in individual cast iron skillets or mini ramekins—everyone gets their own personal cheesy pot! Adding a breadcrumb topping and broiling for a minute makes for a lovely crispy crust that’s impressive yet easy to do.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to add a splash of milk before reheating to bring back that creamy texture because mac and cheese tends to thicken as it rests.
Freezing
I’ve frozen this sausage mac and cheese successfully by placing cooled portions into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When thawing, do it overnight in the fridge to keep the sauce nice and creamy without separation.
Reheating
To reheat, I find the stovetop works best: warm gently over low heat with a bit of milk, stirring often until heated through. The microwave is faster but can sometimes make the sauce a little grainy if you’re not careful.
FAQs
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Can I use pre-grated cheese for this recipe?
While it’s tempting to save time, pre-grated cheese usually contains anti-caking agents that affect melting, resulting in a less creamy sauce. For the best texture and flavor, always freshly grate your cheese for this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe.
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What type of sausage is best to use?
Italian sausage works beautifully because of its seasoning, and you can pick mild, sweet, or hot depending on your spice preference. You can also experiment with breakfast sausage or even spicy chorizo for a twist, but keep in mind it changes the overall flavor profile.
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Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
To make a dairy-free or vegan version, you’ll need to swap the cheddar for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well and use a non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk. Additionally, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage. Just be aware textures and flavors will be different but still tasty!
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How can I avoid my cheese sauce turning grainy?
Low and slow is the key! Avoid boiling the cheese sauce and stir constantly when adding cheese off the heat or on very low heat. Also, use full-fat cheese and milk—lower fat options tend to separate more easily.
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What pasta works best for mac and cheese?
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice because its shape traps the creamy sauce. However, other shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini also work well for holding the cheese sauce and sausage bits evenly.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe never fails to comfort and satisfy. When I first tried it, I realized that sometimes classic comfort food with a little savory sausage boost is exactly what you need on a busy or chilly day. It’s rich, gooey, and perfectly balanced with spice and freshness. Honestly, I make it when I need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser or just want to treat myself to something truly delicious. You’ll enjoy making it, sharing it, and eating every last bite just as much as I do!
Print
Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy, and indulgent comfort food recipe featuring tender elbow pasta mixed with savory Italian sausage and a sharp white cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for a hearty dinner that pleases the whole family, it combines the flavors of browned sausage, a velvety cheese sauce, and a hint of smoky paprika for a decadent twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sausage
- 1 pound dry elbow pasta
- 1 pound bulk Italian sausage (mild, sweet or hot depending on your preference)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 ½ cups milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- 4 cups freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese (do not use pre-grated cheese)
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry elbow pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large pot over medium heat and add the bulk Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate or bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the butter and extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning.
- Make the Roux and Add Milk: Sprinkle the flour into the pot with the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the black pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard to the milk mixture.
- Thicken the Sauce: Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to the consistency of a creamy soup, approximately 10 minutes. Ensure not to let the sauce scorch on the bottom of the pot.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the freshly grated sharp white cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and additional pepper as needed.
- Combine Pasta, Sausage, and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained pasta and cooked sausage back into the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a fresh herbal note. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, flavorful sausage mac and cheese.
Notes
- This mac and cheese is super creamy and decadently cheesy, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for dinner.
- Adjust the heat level by selecting mild, sweet, or hot Italian sausage to suit your preference.
- For an even deeper flavor, consider using smoked paprika as suggested for a subtle smoky undertone.
- Pair this dish with your favorite vegetable or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Do not use pre-grated cheese to ensure the sauce melts smoothly and has the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 1038 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 1135 mg
- Fat: 64 g
- Saturated Fat: 29 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 27 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 72 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 44 g
- Cholesterol: 160 mg
