Country Sausage Mac and Cheese

Delicious Country Sausage Mac and Cheese Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Country Sausage Mac and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of pork sausage, creamy cheese, and tender macaroni. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

Macaroni and cheese has been a popular dish in American cuisine for centuries, with variations of the recipe dating back to the 18th century. The addition of sausage to this classic dish adds a savory twist and makes it a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) pork sausage
1.5 cups milk
12 oz (340 g) processed cheddar cheese, cut into cubes
0.5 cup dijon mustard
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup sliced mushrooms
0.33 cup sliced green onion
0.13 tsp cayenne pepper
12 oz (340 g) uncooked elbow macaroni
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Crumble and cook the sausage in a medium skillet until browned, then drain.
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, process cheese, and mustard. Cook and stir over low heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
Stir in the sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, green onion, and cayenne pepper.
Remove from heat.
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions, then drain.
Combine the hot macaroni and cheese mixture in a large bowl, tossing until well coated.
Spoon the mixture into a greased shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Cover and bake for 15 – 20 minutes.
Stir and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Try using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage.
Add in some cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gouda.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked to ensure it is safe to eat.

- Use a good quality processed cheddar cheese for a creamy and smooth sauce.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious mac and cheese with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the macaroni until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have processed cheddar cheese, you can use shredded cheddar cheese instead.

- Feel free to use any type of pasta in place of elbow macaroni.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the casserole dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Country Sausage Mac and Cheese pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Country Sausage Mac and Cheese contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of Country Sausage Mac and Cheese contains around 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

With the pork sausage as the main protein source, this dish provides about 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, cheese) and wheat (macaroni), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Country Sausage Mac and Cheese is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Country Sausage Mac and Cheese is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy cheese sauce, savory sausage, and tender macaroni, this recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal option.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Country Sausage Mac and Cheese. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. The pages were yellowed and worn, but the recipe for this comforting dish caught my eye.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She was a master in the art of homestyle cooking, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps. So, with a sense of excitement, I set out to learn how to make this delicious dish.

I remember the first time I made Country Sausage Mac and Cheese. The house was filled with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling sausage and creamy cheese. It was a cool autumn day, and the warmth of the oven was a welcome comfort. As I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite.

But the journey to mastering this dish was not an easy one. I spent countless hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. I sought out advice from friends and family, and even enlisted the help of local chefs. I was determined to perfect the recipe and make it my own.

One of my most memorable experiences was when I visited a quaint little diner in the countryside. The owner was known for his delicious comfort food, and I was eager to learn from him. As I sat at the counter, savoring a steaming plate of Country Sausage Mac and Cheese, I struck up a conversation with the owner.

He shared his own tips and tricks for making the dish, from using a blend of cheeses to adding a dash of paprika for extra flavor. I listened intently, taking notes and asking questions. By the time I left the diner, I felt like I had unlocked the secrets to making the perfect Country Sausage Mac and Cheese.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, making it my own with little tweaks and adjustments. I discovered that adding a hint of Dijon mustard gave the dish a subtle tanginess, while a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top added a satisfying crunch. Each time I made Country Sausage Mac and Cheese, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

And as I shared the dish with my family and friends, their eyes would light up with delight. They would heap their plates with seconds, savoring each bite and showering me with compliments. It was a joy to see them enjoying something I had created with love and care.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for Country Sausage Mac and Cheese to future generations, I hope they will find as much joy in making and sharing it as I have. Cooking is not just about following instructions – it's about infusing each dish with memories and love. And with each bite of this comforting dish, I hope they will taste the years of dedication and passion that went into perfecting it.

So, if you ever find yourself feeling curious about trying something new in the kitchen, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Who knows – it might just become a beloved family tradition, passed down through the ages. And as you savor each creamy, cheesy bite of Country Sausage Mac and Cheese, remember the journey that brought this dish to your table, and the love that went into making it.