Creamy Kielbasa Mac & Cheese Skillet Bake

When I’m craving something rich, comforting, and a little indulgent, I whip up a batch of Kielbasa Mac & Cheese.

It’s everything I love about classic mac and cheese—creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a golden topping—but with the bonus of crispy, browned kielbasa slices that bring smoky depth to every bite.

This isn’t just a side dish—this is full-on comfort food that eats like a meal.

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Recipe Highlights

This Kielbasa Mac & Cheese is a flavor-packed twist on the traditional. Browning the sausage first adds irresistible texture and flavor, and the creamy cheddar sauce clings perfectly to the pasta.

It’s baked just long enough to melt the cheese and slightly crisp the top—optional, but worth it.

You can make this all in one skillet for easy cleanup, and it’s perfect for dinner, potlucks, or anytime you need a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl.

Highlights:

• Smoky, golden-browned kielbasa adds serious flavor
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• Extra creamy cheddar cheese sauce
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• Baked for melty, golden-topped perfection
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• One-skillet meal
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• Ready in about 30 minutes

Ingredient Notes

• Kielbasa: Fully cooked smoked sausage works best. Slice it into rounds and sear in a skillet until golden to bring out the flavor.
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• Elbow Macaroni or Shells: These pasta shapes hold the cheese sauce beautifully.
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• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers bold flavor and creamy reliability.
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• Milk + Heavy Cream: Using both gives the sauce richness without being overly heavy.
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• Flour + Butter (Roux): This thickens the cheese sauce and helps it cling to the pasta.
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• Garlic Powder + Dijon Mustard: Adds savory depth and a little zip to the sauce.
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• Breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a crunchy topping if baking.

How to Make My Kielbasa Mac & Cheese

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until just al dente, drain, and set aside.
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2. Brown the kielbasa: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat one tablespoon of butter or oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy on both sides. Remove and set aside.
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3. Make the cheese sauce: In the same skillet, melt three tablespoons of butter. Whisk in three tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
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4. Add seasonings: Stir in garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
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5. Stir in cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until smooth and melty.
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6. Combine and bake (optional): Stir in drained pasta and half the browned kielbasa. Top with remaining kielbasa and extra shredded cheese. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs if using. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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7. Serve hot: Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.

Delicious Kielbasa Mac & Cheese Skillet Bake

This creamy kielbasa mac and cheese skillet bake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Tender elbow macaroni is enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, enhanced by the smoky essence of sliced smoked kielbasa rounds.

The dish is not only comforting but also visually appealing, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

With a topping of golden breadcrumbs and a garnish of fresh chopped parsley or green onions, it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

The preparation is straightforward, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.

Ingredients That Shine

The key ingredients in this dish come together to create a satisfying meal.

Butter and all-purpose flour form the base of the creamy sauce, while whole milk and heavy cream add richness.

Dijon mustard and garlic powder infuse the dish with depth, while shredded sharp cheddar cheese brings it all together with its melty goodness.

Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

The sliced smoked kielbasa rounds provide a hearty element, while the breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch on top.

Cooking Method

To begin, cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking until golden.

Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.

Next, stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until everything is melted and smooth.

Combine the cooked macaroni and sliced kielbasa with the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Baking to Perfection

Once combined, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a beautiful presentation.

As it bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist.

The bubbling cheese and crunchy topping create an inviting dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Serving Suggestions

When ready to serve, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.

This creamy kielbasa mac and cheese skillet bake can be enjoyed straight from the skillet, adding a rustic charm to your dining experience.

Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit.

The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.

Kielbasa Mac & Cheese is rich and filling on its own, but it pairs well with:

• Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts
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• A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette
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• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
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• Pickled veggies or sauerkraut on the side
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• A chilled pilsner or sparkling apple cider

Nutritional Information

This dish serves four and provides a hearty meal with approximately 550 calories per serving.

With 30 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein, it’s a filling option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

The carbohydrates from the elbow macaroni round out the meal, making it a well-balanced choice for any occasion.

Enjoy the comforting goodness of this creamy kielbasa mac and cheese skillet bake, and savor every bite!

It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any dinner table.

Tips for the Best Kielbasa Mac & Cheese

Use high-quality cheddar and shred it yourself for the smoothest sauce—it melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

Don’t skip browning the kielbasa; it adds crucial flavor. Slightly undercook the pasta before baking so it stays firm.

If you’re short on time, skip the oven step and serve straight from the stovetop!

Storage & Warming Instructions

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooled mac and cheese in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheat: Microwave individual portions with a splash of milk or reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through.