Smoked Cajun Mac and Cheese- Chicken, Andouille Sausage

smoked cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar cheese

💰Cheaper: regular cheddar cheese

Regular cheddar is more accessible and budget-friendly.

smoked sausage

🥗Healthier: chicken sausage

💰Cheaper: pork sausage

Pork sausage is often less expensive and maintains flavor.

Boil 1 lb of large elbow noodles in salted water.

Season 1 lb of chicken breast with blackening seasoning and sauté in a pan with extra virgin olive oil until browned.

Add 16 oz of andouille sausage and mix well until cooked.

Chop and add 1 onion, 1 red bell pepper, 1 cup of celery, and 1 shallot; cook until translucent.

In a separate pot, combine 4 cups of whole milk, 8 oz of medium cheddar, and 8 oz of cream cheese; melt on low heat while stirring often.

Add 2 tsp of unsalted butter and 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour to the pan with the chicken and sausage to make a roux.

Mix in the melted cheese sauce with the pasta, vegetables, and protein; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the mixture to a cast iron skillet; add bacon pieces and sprinkle with bread crumbs.

Smoke at 275°F for 30 minutes.

Garnish with parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens