Description
A hearty twist on classic mac and cheese, this dish combines creamy cheddar pasta with sautéed sausage, bell peppers, and onions for a bold and satisfying comfort meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 250g elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 sausages (Italian or smoked), sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and sautéed vegetables with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use spicy sausage for extra kick, or substitute with turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for depth of flavor.
- This dish can be baked with breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, sausage pasta, comfort food, peppers and onions, cheesy pasta