Mac Sausage And Broccoli Bake
A hearty baked casserole combining creamy macaroni with smoky sausage and tender broccoli, topped with green onions for a fresh finish. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Kraft macaroni and cheese dinner as directed on the package.
- Cut the broccoli into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the prepared macaroni, broccoli, smoked sausage pieces, cream of celery soup, and green onion slices. Mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish and cover.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a handful of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, swap the smoked sausage for a spicy andouille variety. You can also use fresh broccoli instead of frozen, just blanch it briefly before adding to the bake.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is perfect as a standalone dish, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside the comforting flavors of Cajun Breakfast Casserole for a delightful brunch spread. For a fun twist, top with crushed crackers or fried onions just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mac Sausage And Broccoli Bake contains roughly 269 calories, with 11g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1036mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also use vegetarian sausage if you're looking for a meatless alternative. Just ensure that any substitution you make is pre-cooked and cut into similar-sized pieces.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake it from the fridge for about 10 additional minutes, ensuring it's heated through before serving.
Can I freeze the Mac Sausage and Broccoli Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, or bake from frozen, allowing extra time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).