Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Cajun Mac and Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food, combining smoky andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and creamy cheese sauce with just the right amount of Cajun spice. Packed with bold flavors, sautéed vegetables, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this baked pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine or simply love a hearty mac and cheese recipe, this dish delivers a satisfying balance of spice, creaminess, and crunch.

Get ready for a flavor-packed comfort dish with this Cajun Mac and Cheese! Creamy, cheesy pasta combined with smoky andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and a hint of Cajun spice makes this recipe an unforgettable dinner. The crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch to this hearty casserole, making it ideal for gatherings or a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Protein:

• 1 lb cavatappi or elbow pasta
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• ½ white onion, diced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
• ½ lb medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 ¼ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 ¼ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp sliced green onions
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables and Protein:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and onion, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until tender.
   Stir in the minced garlic and sliced andouille sausage, cooking for 2 minutes.
   Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes on each side until pink. Stir in green onions, then transfer everything to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   In the same skillet or a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook until golden, about 1 minute.
   Slowly whisk in the milk and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
   Stir in 1 cup each of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, along with the Cajun seasoning. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
4. Combine and Assemble:
   Mix the cheese sauce, cooked pasta, and sausage-shrimp mixture together. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
5. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, remaining green onions, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

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Tips

• For extra creaminess, add an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese to the sauce.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
• To save time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the andouille sausage for smoked chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute heavy cream for milk for a richer sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

What other vegetables can I add?
You can add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra nutrients.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Gouda, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack can be excellent substitutes.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cajun Mac and Cheese with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with roasted vegetables or a bowl of gumbo.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy comfort food with a spicy twist. The combination of smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish bursting with flavor. Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!