Savory Sausage Macaroni Bake

This comforting and flavorful recipe combines succulent sausage with creamy macaroni and cheese. The crispy golden topping adds a delightful crunch to this hearty dish, making it perfect for a satisfying family dinner or potluck gathering.
ingredients
- 1 lb macaroni
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- 2.
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3.
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small chunks. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 4.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- 5.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- 6.
Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- 7.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 8.
Add the cooked sausage, cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and well combined.
- 9.
Gently fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring it is fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- 10.
Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- 11.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- 12.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.