If you crave the ultimate comfort food with a fiery Southern twist, Cajun Mac and Cheese is the answer to your dinner dreams! Imagine a velvety cheese sauce, spicy Cajun notes, pops of sweet bell pepper, and a hint of smoky sausage all twirling around tender macaroni. With a picture-perfect golden top and every forkful bursting with flavor, this dish is comfort, excitement, and a hint of toasty nostalgia rolled into one irresistible bite.

Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing what simple, everyday ingredients can do when you put them together just right. Each one brings something unique to the table—whether it’s creaminess, heat, crunch, or color—and they all help create the unforgettable taste and texture of Cajun Mac and Cheese.

Elbow macaroni (8 ounces): The perfect pasta shape for catching all that deliciously spicy cheese sauce.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a rich, smooth base for the sauce and brings that classic mac and cheese flavor.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and adds a subtle earthy note.
Small onion, finely chopped (1): Brings sweetness and depth, rounding out the bold Cajun spices.
Red bell pepper, diced (1): Adds sweetness and vibrant color that really pops in every bowl.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Essential for that back-of-the-mouth warmth and savory backbone.
Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): This is where the magic—and the signature heat—happens!
All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps the sauce thicken up perfectly without getting clumpy.
Whole milk (2 cups): The base for the creamy sauce; use whole milk for the dreamiest texture.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): For luxurious richness that sets Cajun Mac and Cheese apart.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully and gives the dish its signature tang.
Shredded pepper jack cheese (1 cup): Brings creamy texture and a spiced kick.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and brightens every other flavor.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat to round things out.
Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a sweet smokiness and deep color.
Cayenne pepper (1/8 teaspoon, optional): Turn up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous!
Andouille sausage, sliced and browned (1/2 pound, optional): Smoky and spicy, this takes your mac and cheese over the top.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, for topping): Adds a gorgeous crust and nutty kick when broiled on top.
Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup, optional topping): For an irresistible crunch—don’t skip if you love texture!

How to Make Cajun Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and toss in those elbow macaroni. Cook them until just al dente, following the package directions. You want them a tiny bit firm—they’ll soak up the sauce later and get perfectly tender. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside, ready for their cheesy destiny!

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a big skillet, melt the butter together with the olive oil over medium heat. Drop in the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. When they’re tender and super fragrant, stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Let everything sizzle together for another 30 seconds to release the bold, spicy aroma that sets this dish apart.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies, then stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. You want the flour to cook just enough to lose its raw flavor and form a smooth roux. This step is the secret to an ultra-creamy, lump-free cheese sauce in your Cajun Mac and Cheese.

Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while stirring so the mixture stays smooth. Keep it over medium heat, and watch as the sauce begins to thicken after 3-5 minutes. Lower the heat, then add in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce looks glossy and rich!

Step 5: Season & Add Heat

This is where you make it truly your own: taste and add salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne if you like extra heat. Give your sauce a quick stir and take in the wonderfully spiced aroma swirling up from the pan.

Step 6: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Sausage

Gently fold the cooked macaroni into that luscious cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is generously coated. If you’re going the extra mile with andouille sausage, add it in now for smoky-sweet bites throughout your Cajun Mac and Cheese.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer everything into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with grated Parmesan and, if you love some crunch, a layer of breadcrumbs. Broil it on high for 2-3 minutes—keep your eye on it—until the top is golden, toasty, and bubbling to perfection.

How to Serve Cajun Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Finish your Cajun Mac and Cheese with a flurry of fresh green onions or parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herby bite. A few thin slices of jalapeño or a dusting of extra Cajun seasoning can add spicy flair for those who like things hot!

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesy masterpiece with a simple side salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Cornbread, steamed green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw all round out the meal and complement the deep, bold flavors of Cajun Mac and Cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon your Cajun Mac and Cheese into mini cast iron skillets for individual portions that look (and feel) restaurant-worthy. Or go big and serve it family-style from a large, rustic baking dish at the table. For a party, scoop it into toasted bread bowls or ramekins—trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you think!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let your Cajun Mac and Cheese cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s just as crave-worthy on day two!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in tightly sealed containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Let the mac and cheese thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve that perfect creamy texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Cajun Mac and Cheese on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings—cover with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out—or place in a covered baking dish and warm in the oven until hot and bubbly.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just leave out the andouille sausage and, if you’d like, add sautéed mushrooms or baby spinach for a hearty, veggie-forward twist. The bold Cajun flavors shine through, making Cajun Mac and Cheese just as comforting and satisfying.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

No worries! You can easily whip up a quick mix with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper. Start small and adjust to taste—homemade blends always let you control the spice.

How spicy is Cajun Mac and Cheese?

The spice level is all up to you! It has a nice kick from the Cajun seasoning and pepper jack cheese, but the real heat comes from adding extra cayenne or spicy sausage. If you prefer a milder dish, just ease up on the cayenne or use a lightly seasoned sausage.

Can I use other cheeses?

Definitely! While sharp cheddar and pepper jack are classic for Cajun Mac and Cheese, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a touch of mozzarella for more stretch. Just aim for cheeses that melt well for a dreamy sauce.

Is broiling necessary?

Broiling gives you that irresistible golden crust and bubbling cheese top, but if you don’t have a broiler, you can simply bake the mac and cheese at 400°F until the top is browned and crispy—you’ll still get plenty of delicious texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Cajun Mac and Cheese is pure, craveable comfort with a bold Southern attitude. Whether you make it for a cozy family dinner or a party with friends, this dish is sure to spark smiles and second helpings. Give it a try—you’ll quickly understand why it’s such a beloved favorite in my kitchen!

Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the spicy and creamy goodness of Cajun Mac and Cheese. This Southern comfort food combines the rich flavors of cheeses, Cajun seasoning, and optional andouille sausage for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese:

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 pound andouille sausage, sliced and browned (optional)

Toppings:

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

Cook the macaroni: Boil the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic with Cajun seasoning.
Make the cheese sauce: Create a roux with flour, then add milk and cream. Melt in cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
Combine and bake: Mix the cooked macaroni and optional sausage with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish, top with Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then broil until golden.