The Most Irresistible Creamy Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheddar lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

monterey jack cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: colby cheese

Part-skim mozzarella is lower in fat but still melty.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is a healthier fat option.

Prepare elbow macaroni according to package instructions in boiling water.

Heat a pan and add 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil.

Add chopped red peppers, green peppers, onions, and andouille sausage to the pan; cook for 10-15 minutes until veggies soften and sausage browns.

After about 8-9 minutes, add fresh chopped garlic and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Transfer the andouille and veggie mixture to a bowl and set aside; wipe the pan clean.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan.

Add flour to the melted butter and a dash of salt; mix to form a slight roux.

Slowly add milk, followed by heavy whipping cream and chicken broth; cook until slightly thickened.

Add cajun seasoning, basil, and smoked paprika; continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly.

Reduce heat and add cheese, mixing until melted.

Add cooked macaroni and the reserved sausage and veggie mixture; mix until well coated.

Stop the heat and fold in chopped bacon and chives.

Preheat the oven to 350°F and pour the mixture into a baking dish.

Add remaining cheese on top of the mixture in the baking dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes, broil to brown the cheese on top, if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens