Sweet Home Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
* For the Mac and Cheese:
1 pound elbow macaroni
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 teaspoons
any Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 ounces pepper jack cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese shredded
* For the Cajun Add-ins:
1 pound
mild Conecuh Sausage, sliced
1/2
jar of Sweet Home Cajun Candy (link) 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 teaspoon minced garlic.
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Cajun Ingredients:
In a large skillet, sauté the Conecuh sausage, and bell peppers over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine and Bake (Optional):
Add the cooked macaroni and the sautéed Cajun ingredients to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
If you want a baked mac and cheese, pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
You can top the mac and cheese with extra cheese if desired.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve:
Let it cool slightly before serving.