Print

Cajun Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 13 reviews

This rich and creamy Cajun Baked Mac and Cheese combines smoky gouda, sharp cheddar, and creamy American cheese with a kick of Cajun spices and hot sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection and topped with a golden brown crust, this comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The smoky paprika and cayenne pepper bring just the right touch of heat without overpowering the creamy cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Cheese and Dairy

  • 8 ounces white or yellow cheddar (2 cups, grated)
  • 8 ounces smoked gouda (2 cups, grated)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened, cut into chunks)
  • 4 ounces deli American cheese (about 6 slices)
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing pan)

Pasta

  • 1 pound macaroni pasta

Dry Ingredients & Seasonings

  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1–2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling pasta)
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (for sauce)
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep: Set a large pot of water to boil with 1-2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Grate the cheddar and smoked gouda cheeses. Cut the cream cheese into small chunks to soften. Count out about 6 slices of deli American cheese. Measure the whole milk and evaporated milk in a microwave-safe container. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. Boil: Cook the macaroni pasta in the boiling salted water until al dente, following the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  3. Blond Roux: Warm the milk in the microwave and set aside. In the same pot used for pasta, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is a light tan color—the blond roux forms the base for your cheese sauce.
  4. Whisk: Gradually whisk the warmed whole milk and evaporated milk into the roux until the sauce is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in the hot sauce and all the dry seasonings—smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper—until evenly combined.
  5. Stir: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese, the American cheese slices, and half of the smoked gouda and cheddar cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Fold the cooked macaroni pasta into the cheese sauce gently to coat it thoroughly.
  6. Layer: Spread half of the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining smoked gouda and cheddar cheese over the top. Add the remaining mac and cheese mixture, then top with the last of the gouda and cheddar cheese to form a cheesy crust.
  7. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the mac and cheese is hot and bubbly throughout.
  8. Broil: Remove the foil and broil on low for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese topping is browned and bubbling. This step adds a lovely golden crust but can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
  9. Serve: Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions. Serve hot for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Notes

  • Use whole milk and evaporated milk for the creamiest texture and richer flavor.
  • Adjust the hot sauce and cayenne pepper amounts to control the level of heat according to your taste preference.
  • For best melting, grate the cheddar and gouda cheeses rather than using pre-shredded, which often contain anti-caking agents.
  • Letting the mac and cheese rest before serving helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.
  • Use a light hand with the broiler step and watch closely—browning happens quickly.
  • You can substitute the macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/cajun-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/