Get ready to spice up your comfort food game with this mouthwatering One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac. This dish brings the bold, smoky heat of Cajun spices together with creamy, melty cheese and hearty sausage, all tossed with tender elbow macaroni. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug but with a bit of a kick — and it all comes together in just one pan.

Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this cheesy skillet meal delivers full-bodied flavor without a pile of dirty dishes. The balance between smoky sausage, velvety cheese, and perfectly seasoned pasta makes this recipe a must-try for anyone who loves Southern comfort with a bold twist.

Ingredients for this One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 tablespoon olive oil
14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons butter
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Let it sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage and set it aside — but keep the flavorful bits in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Seasonings

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir them into the garlic oil to bloom the spices and deepen their flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and stir well. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should be al dente and most of the liquid absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in the milk and butter until combined. Let it simmer uncovered for another 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese, a little at a time, stirring constantly until smooth and fully melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and fold it into the cheesy pasta. Let it all heat together for another minute or two. If needed, add a splash more milk to loosen the sauce to your liking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish it off by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot straight from the skillet — creamy, smoky, cheesy perfection in every bite.

Storage Instructions

To keep your One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac fresh and flavorful:

Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway. For stovetop reheating, place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing: Although you can freeze it, the cheese sauce may change texture. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: 520
Protein: 22g

Fat: 33g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 950mg
Calcium: 220mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on sausage and cheese brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick substitute using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to dial up the heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free pasta and verify the sausage and seasoning are gluten-free.

Can I use a different protein?

Sure! Try diced chicken, shrimp, or even a meatless sausage alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat with extra milk.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can blend in pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for variation.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms sautéed with the sausage make great additions.

One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This One-Skillet Smoky Cajun Sausage & Cheese Mac is the ultimate weeknight comfort food. It combines spicy smoked sausage, tender elbow pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce — all infused with Cajun spices and smoky depth. Best of all, it’s cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and flavor unforgettable.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally.

Stir in milk and butter. Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Return sausage to the skillet and mix well. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated through.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Category: Dinner