Indulge In {Cajun Mac N' Cheese}

I've been a Mac n' cheese fan ever since I was a child. What's not to love when you combine pasta and melted cheeses? My favorite is a recipe of my mom's that combines a rue with white wine and loads of cheese to make a decadent cheese sauce poured over penne and baked till bubbly. However, every once in awhile I like to mix it up. For the beer tasting I showed you yesterday, I made an out of this world Cajun mac n' cheese with creole seasoning, andouille sausage, and chicken. It's a great recipe to mix up the traditional and add a bit of flavor. Not to mention, it was a huge hit at the party! It can either be baked in individual ramekins  or in a large casserole dish family style. Whichever way you serve it up, your guests will be sure to thank you. Here's the recipe!

:: Ingredients ::

1 Box Penne Pasta

3 Cups Milk

4 Tablespoon Butter

4 Tablespoon Flour

16 oz Shredded Sharp Cheddar

1 Tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Blend

1/2 Cup Bell Pepper, diced

1/2 Cup Onion, diced

1 Tablespoon Garlic, minced

1 Tablespoon Cooking Oil

1 Can Diced Tomatoes, strained

1.5 Cups Andouille Sausage, sliced

1.5 Cups Chicken, cubed

1/2 Cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar for Topping

:: Directions ::

1. Cook pasta according to box directions. Strain and set aside.

2. In a medium pan, sautee bell pepper, onion and garlic in oil until onion is translucent. Set aside.

3. In a medium pot, melt the butter. Stir in flour and whisk until smooth paste forms. Add milk and whisk continually until it reaches a low boil and thickens. Mix in cheese and stir till melted. Add cajun seasoning. 

4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, pepper mixture, cheese sauce, 1 cup sausage, and 1 cup chicken. 

5. Pour into a greased casserole dish and top with remaining sausage, chicken, and shredded cheese.

6. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes or until sides are bubbly. 

Have a spicy Thursday!