Sausage Mac
A creamy, flavorful macaroni and sausage dish featuring tender pasta, seasoned pork sausage, sweet corn, and herbs, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling water about 8 minutes or till just tender; drain.
- Cook sausage and chopped onion until meat is browned; drain fat.
- Add drained corn, parsley, salt, and pepper to the sausage mixture.
- Stir in softened cream cheese and milk until smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the mixture and heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cream cheese and sour cream. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or smoked paprika. You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the dish. This Sausage Mac can also be made with gluten-free elbow macaroni if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Sausage Mac with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Fern Weinhold's Salad Dressing for a refreshing contrast. You can also top it with grated cheese or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the macaroni creamy and prevent it from drying out. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal later on.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Mac contains roughly 497 calories, with 15g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked al dente. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste or use what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Additionally, you might want to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it satisfying.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, consider using spicy sausage. For an extra kick, serve with sliced jalapeños or a spicy salsa on the side.
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).