Kielbasa mac and cheese
Kielbasa Mac and Cheese: A Savory Twist on Comfort Food
If you’re looking to elevate your classic mac and cheese, this Kielbasa Mac and Cheese recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, this dish brings together two comfort food favorites—macaroni and cheese and smoky, savory kielbasa sausage—for a meal that’s hearty and satisfying.
The base of this dish is a rich and velvety cheese sauce made with white cheddar and Parmesan, creating a perfectly creamy texture that coats every bite of the tender elbow macaroni.
The addition of browned kielbasa adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish, with the sausage slices crisping up in the skillet to bring a delightful contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
This is a meal that’s perfect for weeknights when you want something simple but delicious. It’s also a fantastic crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or game days.
The combination of creamy pasta and sausage will make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
The best part about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a few steps—browning the kielbasa, making the cheese sauce, and mixing everything together—you can have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in less than 30 minutes.
Plus, it’s easy to customize! You can add in your favorite veggies, swap in different cheeses, or even try a spicier kielbasa for an extra kick.
Serve it as a stand-alone dinner or pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. Either way, this Kielbasa Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz small elbow macaroni
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 chicken Boullion cube
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced kielbasa until browned and crispy on the edges, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and Boullion over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded white cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta, Kielbasa, and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and browned kielbasa to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the kielbasa mac and cheese to bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Kielbasa Mac and Cheese is a creamy, savory twist on a classic comfort dish. Tender elbow macaroni is smothered in a rich white cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce, while browned kielbasa adds a smoky, bold flavor.
With crispy sausage bites and creamy pasta in every forkful, this meal is the perfect combination of indulgence and comfort, making it a hit for weeknight dinners or family gatherings!