Description
Get ready to dive into a bowlful of pure comfort with this One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese! This easy-to-make dish combines the savory goodness of smoked kielbasa sausage with the irresistible creaminess of a homemade mac and cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you’re craving something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cup elbow macaroni
- 3 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Now, add the pasta, chicken broth, milk, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and stir to combine. Heat for 1-2 minutes until the sausage is warmed through.
6. Garnish your delicious One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Dig in and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!
Notes
While the classic One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese is already a flavor-packed dish, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little spicy kick. Swap out the smoked paprika for a different spice blend, like Cajun or Italian seasoning, to change up the flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the kielbasa and use diced bell peppers or mushrooms instead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg