why make this recipe
Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage is a delicious and comforting meal that combines classic mac and cheese with a zesty BBQ twist. The smoky flavor from the sausage, combined with the creamy cheddar and tangy BBQ sauce, makes this dish a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. It’s not just tasty but also quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy pasta in a whole new way!
how to make Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced smoked sausage and brown it for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Mix in the whole milk, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is melted and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions.
how to serve Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage
Serve this dish hot in bowls or on plates. A sprinkle of chopped green onions on top adds a nice color and fresh flavor. You can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal.
how to store Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage
If you have leftovers, let the mac cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
tips to make Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage
- You can adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your personal taste if you like it spicier or milder.
- Feel free to add extra veggies, such as bell peppers or onions, to increase the nutritional value and flavor.
- For added crunch, consider topping the mac with breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven for a few minutes.
variation
If you want a meat-free option, you can substitute the smoked sausage with grilled vegetables or a plant-based sausage. This way, you can enjoy a similar flavor profile without the meat!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can mix different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, although it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When reheating, you might need to add a bit more milk to get the consistency right.
Spicy BBQ Cheddar Mac with Smoked Sausage
A delicious and comforting meal, combining classic mac and cheese with a zesty BBQ twist, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the elbow macaroni and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Incorporate the whole milk, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add more BBQ sauce or mix in different types of cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Carnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
