Baked Mac and Cheese with Cajun Spiced Sausage and Cheddar Crust

Ingredients

• •1 pound elbow macaroni
• •2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• •2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• •2 cups whole milk
• •1 cup heavy cream
• •3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• •1 teaspoon garlic powder
• •1 teaspoon onion powder
• •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• •1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• •1 pound Cajun spiced sausage, cooked and sliced
• •1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• •1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. 2

   Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. 3

   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux.

4. 4

   Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens.

5. 5

   Add 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.

6. 6

   Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.

7. 7

   Stir the cooked macaroni and Cajun spiced sausage into the cheese sauce until well combined.

8. 8

   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

9. 9

   In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.

10. 10

    Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top of the macaroni.

11. 11

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.

12. 12

    Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and serve.