What happens when comfort food meets hearty sausage? Two pans of creamy macaroni and cheese loaded with savory sausage make for a quick and easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love. Save this idea for a homemade meal that is sure to become a family favorite, try it soon

two pans filled with macaroni and cheese covered in sausage

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food recipe that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Two pans filled with macaroni and cheese covered in sausage is a creative twist on a classic dish, combining the richness of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of sausage. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a potluck. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delicious dish, share some helpful tips and tricks, and provide you with some inspiration for variations and substitutions.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of macaroni and cheese with sausage creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The ingredients are also easily accessible and affordable, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.
• Ease of preparation: This recipe is relatively simple to prepare, requiring only a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. The macaroni and cheese can be cooked in one pan, while the sausage is cooked in another, making it easy to manage and prepare.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this recipe yields impressive results. The combination of creamy macaroni and cheese with crispy sausage is sure to impress your family and friends, and the presentation is also visually appealing.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe are macaroni, cheese, sausage, and some basic pantry staples such as butter, flour, and milk. You can use any type of sausage you like, such as chorizo, Italian sausage, or even bacon. For the cheese, you can use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for a rich and creamy flavor. Some practical substitutions you can make include using different types of pasta, such as shells or elbow macaroni, or using various types of cheese, such as gouda or feta.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
3. Step 3: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until it’s well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s browned and crispy. Drain the excess fat and set the sausage aside.
5. Step 5: To assemble the dish, divide the macaroni and cheese mixture between two 9×13 inch baking dishes. Top each dish with a layer of sausage, followed by a sprinkle of extra cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni and cheese is heated through.

Handy Tips

• Use a variety of cheeses for a rich and creamy flavor. You can also add some grated nutmeg or paprika for extra depth of flavor.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it can become mushy and unappetizing. Aim for al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite to it.
• Use a high-quality sausage for the best flavor. You can also use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or Italian sausage, for a unique twist.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure to use medium-high heat to get a nice brown crust on the outside. This will add texture and flavor to the dish. When baking the macaroni and cheese, use a moderate heat (375°F or 190°C) to prevent the top from burning before the inside is heated through. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the dish, which should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the crispy sausage on top. To achieve this, make sure to cook the sausage until it’s browned and crispy, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You can also add some crunchy toppings, such as chopped nuts or crispy breadcrumbs, to add extra texture to the dish.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mixture of cheeses for a rich and creamy flavor. You can also add some grated nutmeg or paprika for extra depth of flavor.
• Don’t overcook the macaroni, as it can become mushy and unappetizing. Aim for al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite to it.
• Use a high-quality sausage for the best flavor. You can also use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or Italian sausage, for a unique twist.

Storage Tips

• Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through.
• You can also freeze the macaroni and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through.
• When storing leftovers, make sure to label the container with the date and contents, and store it in a cool, dry place.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for a potluck or a gift for a friend or family member. You can package it in a decorative dish or container, such as a ceramic or glass baking dish, and add some garnishes, such as chopped herbs or edible flowers. You can also add a personalized note or card to make it extra special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: You can add some dried or fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the cheese sauce for extra flavor. You can also add some spicy spices, such as cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, for a kick.
• Creative toppings: You can add some creative toppings, such as chopped nuts or crispy breadcrumbs, to add extra texture and flavor to the dish. You can also add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Ingredient swaps: You can swap out the macaroni for other types of pasta, such as shells or elbow macaroni. You can also use different types of cheese, such as gouda or feta, for a unique twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the macaroni and cheese is too dry, you can add some extra milk or cream to moisten it. If it’s too wet, you can add some extra cheese or breadcrumbs to thicken it.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have a certain ingredient, you can substitute it with something else. For example, you can use different types of cheese or sausage for a unique twist.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the macaroni and cheese is overcooked, it will be dry and mushy. If it’s undercooked, it will be crunchy and hard. Aim for a creamy and tender texture, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the macaroni and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten due to the presence of macaroni and sausage. However, you can substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free sausage for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, two pans filled with macaroni and cheese covered in sausage is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy macaroni and cheese, crispy sausage, and crunchy toppings, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is a great addition to your repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of this comfort food classic!