Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe combines the smoky goodness of Hillshire Farms Smoked Sausage with creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese for a comfort food masterpiece that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and will quickly become a family favorite. It's one of those healthy meals that feels wonderfully indulgent without sacrificing your time or good health.
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Sausage:
- 1 (14-ounce) package Hillshire Farms Smoked Sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
Get started with the Mac and Cheese:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
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Stir in the cooked macaroni until it's well coated in the cheese sauce.
Time for the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the sliced Hillshire Farms Smoked Sausage over medium heat until browned on both sides. This adds a delicious smoky depth of flavor to the dish.
Combine and Bake:
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Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cooked sausage slices on top of the mac and cheese.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
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Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the mac and cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra creaminess, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream in the cheese sauce.
- Don't overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of Gruyere and Fontina would be delicious!
- For a richer flavor, use homemade sausage instead of the Hillshire Farms variety.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and add some color by incorporating cooked broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or sauteed mushrooms into the mac and cheese before baking.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking for extra smoky flavor and texture.
- Spicy Sausage Mac and Cheese: Use a spicy Hillshire Farms sausage variety, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a fiery twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Hillshire Farms Smoked Sausage and Mac and Cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy!