Macaroni-Sausage Casserole
Creamy macaroni and sausage casserole features tender pasta, savory pork sausage, and melted Cheddar cheese, making it a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in 3-quart boiling salted water for 7 to 8 minutes. Drain well.
- Brown the pork sausage; remove and reserve half of the sausage.
- Sauté chopped onion and green pepper in fat until tender.
- Stir in flour and salt, cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly add milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni, sausage, and sauce in a casserole dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage or a meat alternative for a lighter version. To enhance flavor, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning. If you want more veggies, incorporate spinach or mushrooms into the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad, such as Mountain Spring Salad, for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with a bowl of Cheddared Baked Potato Soup to complete the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until hot, or cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni-Sausage Casserole contains roughly 677 calories, with 16g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can add depth and richness to the dish, making it even more delicious.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of meat stock and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly for a complete vegetarian meal.
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).