Creamy Sausage Mac And Cheese
Try this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese! It is rich, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage flavors. This dish is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion!

I used to think mac and cheese was just a quick boxed meal, so I learned to elevate it into something rich, creamy, and homemade. This recipe has become a go-to favorite for comfort food nights.
I made this for my friends at a casual dinner gathering, and it was an instant hit. The combination of savory sausage and luscious cheese sauce is a dish I like to prepare for cozy evenings or when I need something indulgent. Honestly, I’m not gonna lie — this recipe is one of my absolute favorites.
This creamy sausage mac and cheese is always my first choice when I decide to make something hearty and satisfying. I make it with perfectly cooked pasta, savory sausage, and a sauce that’s loaded with cheddar and Parmesan. Sometimes, I like to add sautéed onions or even roasted red peppers, and it always turns out amazing.
You can also toss in a handful of spinach or peas for some added color and flavor. The result? Wow! You’ll love it for sure. For a perfect pairing, serve it with a side salad and garlic bread. This recipe is super easy to make, and it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Why You Will Love This Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese?
This creamy sausage mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with its rich, cheesy sauce and perfectly seasoned sausage. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors ensures everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Perfect For:
- Weeknight Dinners: This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. It’s hearty, filling, and guaranteed to please the whole family. With minimal prep and cook time, it’s a stress-free option for a delicious dinner.
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck, game night, or family get-together, this mac and cheese always stands out as a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to scale up for larger groups and can be kept warm in a serving dish.
- Comfort Food Cravings: On chilly days or whenever you need a pick-me-up, this dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. Its creamy richness is both soothing and satisfying.
- Meal Prepping: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this recipe perfect for prepping lunches or dinners ahead of time. You can portion it out for the week and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal in minutes.
Ingredients
For the Sausage:
- 1/2 pound ground sausage (Italian or smoked sausage, crumbled)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Large skillet or frying pan for cooking sausage and sauce
- Whisk for the cheese sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater for freshly shredded cheese
- Ladle for serving

How to make Creamy Sausage Mac And Cheese
Step 1:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2:
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and garlic powder, stirring to coat evenly. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 3:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4:
Lower the heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mustard powder (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5:
Add the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 6:
Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
More Tips
- Slightly undercooked the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, creating a perfect texture.
- Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Shred your own for a smoother, creamier result.
- Let the sausage develop a golden crust for added flavor. Don’t rush this step — the caramelization makes a huge difference.
- To avoid lumps, whisk the butter and flour mixture (roux) constantly when adding milk and cream. Take your time with this step for a silky sauce.
- Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference. A pinch of nutmeg can also add a subtle depth to the cheese sauce.
- Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli make excellent additions to this dish. Not only do they add nutrition, but they also enhance the overall flavor.
- Use the reserved water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if it gets too thick. This trick ensures the sauce stays smooth and creamy.
Optional Ingredients
- Sautéed Onions: Add sweet, caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor. The slight sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Chop and mix these into the sauce for a smoky, sweet twist. They add both flavor and a pop of color.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to match your heat tolerance.
- Spinach: Toss fresh spinach into the sauce just before serving for a healthy touch and vibrant green color.
- Smoked Gouda: Swap out some cheddar for smoked gouda to elevate the flavor with a hint of smokiness.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme, parsley, or basil for a fragrant finish that complements the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese?
For serving, always plate this dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and some extra Parmesan for a polished presentation. My favorite way to serve it is in individual bowls, so everyone gets their share of creamy goodness. Pairing it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes it even better and ensures no sauce is left behind.
Add a crisp green salad on the side, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The salad’s freshness balances the richness of the mac and cheese perfectly. For a heartier side, consider roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
If you’re hosting a dinner, serve this dish straight from the skillet for a cozy, family-style meal. It’s warm, inviting, and guaranteed to make everyone feel at home. Pair it with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience. The presentation alone will have everyone excited for dinner.

Recipe Variations to try!
Spicy Sausage Mac: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery twist that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. This keeps the dish hearty while catering to vegetarians.
Extra Cheesy: Add more cheddar or mix in mozzarella for an extra gooey texture. A cheese blend can take the dish to the next level.
Bacon Mac: Crumble crispy bacon into the dish for a smoky, savory boost. Bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles to make a keto-friendly version. It’s lighter but still indulgent.
Herbed Mac: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the sauce for a fragrant, elevated flavor that feels gourmet.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to ensure the cheese sauce remains smooth.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above. The creamy sauce stays delicious even after freezing, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works perfectly in this recipe.
What type of sausage works best?
- Italian sausage, smoked sausage, or even spicy sausage are great choices depending on your flavor preference.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with sautu00e9ed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
- Add a bit more heavy cream or use a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for an ultra-rich sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers are excellent additions for added flavor and nutrients.
What cheeses work best in this recipe?
- Cheddar and Parmesan are classics, but you can mix in mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess.
How can I make it spicier?
- Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Creamy Sausage Mac And Cheese
Course: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes35
minutesTry this Creamy Sausage Mac and Cheese! It is rich, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage flavors. This dish is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- For the Sausage:
1/2 pound ground sausage (Italian or smoked sausage, crumbled)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Mac and Cheese:
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
Chopped parsley
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and garlic powder, stirring to coat evenly. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Lower the heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mustard powder (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Slightly undercooked the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, creating a perfect texture.