If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy macaroni mingles perfectly with the smoky, savory slices of kielbasa, all cooked in one pot to save you from a pile of dishes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with just the right balance of textures and flavors to keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but crucial—they create the comforting, rich taste and perfect texture that make this dish stand out. Each component, from the sharp cheddar to the smoky kielbasa, plays its own delicious role in bringing this recipe together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the kielbasa and adding a subtle fruity undertone.
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced: The star protein, contributing smokiness and a satisfying bite.
- 3 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and adds that nostalgic mac and cheese feel.
- 3½ cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid for the pasta, enhancing overall depth.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, tangy flavor and melts to creamy perfection.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives extra meltiness and a gooey, stretchy texture.
How to Make One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the sliced kielbasa and cook it until it’s beautifully browned on the edges, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step locks in the sausage’s smoky flavor and adds a fantastic caramelized texture. Once browned, remove the kielbasa and set it aside — we’ll bring it back in later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same pot, drop in minced garlic and sauté it for just about 30 seconds. This quick step awakens the garlic’s aroma without letting it burn, infusing the base of your dish with subtle yet essential depth.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Now add the elbow macaroni straight to the pot along with the chicken broth and whole milk. Give it a gentle stir to combine, then bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is tender and has soaked up a lot of that savory broth. This method cooks the macaroni right inside the flavorful liquid, making every bite rich and delicious.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Once the pasta is perfectly tender, stir in both the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with a knob of butter if you like. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and transforms the pot contents into a luxuriously creamy sauce. This step is where your mac and cheese really comes to life, thickening just right.
Step 5: Return and Heat the Kielbasa
Slide the browned kielbasa slices back into the pot and mix them gently to incorporate. Let everything heat through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, so the sausage warms up and the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Garnish
Dish out your cheesy, comforting masterpiece straight from the pot. For an optional, fresh touch, sprinkle with some freshly chopped parsley or your favorite herb before serving.
How to Serve One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up this rich dish, fresh parsley or chives work wonders. They add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that balances the creamy, smoky flavors perfectly. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle heat and extra depth if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Their freshness cuts through the richness, creating a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or simple roasted potatoes also complement the cheesy heartiness if you want something more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins with an extra sprinkle of cheese melted to golden perfection under a broiler. Alternatively, load it into bell peppers or even hollowed-out baked potatoes for a fun, shareable presentation that turns an everyday comfort meal into something a bit more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for this creamy dish because the texture can change slightly. If you do freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
When reheating, the secret is to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce as it warms. Heat it over low to medium heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to keep it creamy and prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While kielbasa gives a wonderful smoky flavor, you can swap in Andouille, chorizo, or even a milder smoked sausage. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time as needed.
Is it okay to use different cheeses?
Definitely! Sharp cheddar and mozzarella create great meltiness and flavor, but feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a bit of parmesan for an extra punch of taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To keep it vegetarian, omit the kielbasa and consider adding smoked paprika and liquid smoke to mimic that smoky depth. You can also add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted peppers.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños when sautéing the garlic, or top with crushed red pepper flakes just before serving for a nice kick that complements the cheese and sausage.
Is one pot enough to cook the pasta and sauce without it sticking?
Yes! Using enough liquid and stirring occasionally while simmering helps prevent sticking. The chicken broth and milk create the perfect environment for the pasta to cook through and absorb flavor without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food made easy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, satisfying family dinners, or anytime you want a no-fuss dish bursting with flavor. Once you try it, this creamy, smoky mac and cheese will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. So grab your pot and let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty One-Pot Kielbasa Mac and Cheese combines smoky kielbasa sausage with creamy, cheesy macaroni in a simple, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Cooked entirely in one pot, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The sharp cheddar and mozzarella melt into a luscious sauce, while tender elbow macaroni and savory kielbasa create a satisfying meaty pasta meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 3½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown Kielbasa: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni, chicken broth, whole milk, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter into the pot. Continue stirring until the cheeses and butter have fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Kielbasa: Return the browned kielbasa slices to the pot and stir to combine. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes to ensure everything is warm.
- Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels if you prefer.
- Substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for an extra rich and creamy sauce.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by substituting kielbasa with smoked tofu or vegetarian sausage.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
