Name: Creamy Cajun Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 8 oz package shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cottage cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup milk; 1 egg (beaten); 2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp paprika

Description

This creamy and flavorful Mac & Cheese recipe features tender elbow macaroni baked in a rich mixture of cheddar, cottage cheese, sour cream, and spices. Perfectly seasoned with Cajun seasoning and paprika, this classic comfort dish is baked to golden, bubbly perfection, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Cheese & Dairy

8 oz package shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 cup milk
1 egg (beaten)

Seasoning

2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp paprika

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just tender. Drain well to remove excess water.
Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, milk, beaten egg, and Cajun seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir gently to evenly coat all the pasta.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with paprika for added color and flavor.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish with greased aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and has a golden top.
Serve: Let it rest slightly before serving for best texture and flavor enjoyment.

Notes

Make sure to not overcook the macaroni to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
For a crispier top, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs along with the paprika before baking uncovered.
This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add additional baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American