Cajun Mac n Cheese

Stovetop mac with a spicy Cajun kick. Four ingredients, one pot, and zero measuring cups required.

Serves
2-ish
Time
About 20 min
Effort
Barely any
Good for
Dinner or a side
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A bowl of creamy Cajun mac and cheese with a fork

When I was little, my mom made me homemade mac and cheese with white American cheese slices melted right into the pasta. Creamy, simple, and exactly what a kid wants for dinner.

This is the adult-me spin on it. Same easy, cozy idea, plus a hit of Cajun seasoning for a little spice. It's my go-to when I want something comforting on the table fast.

Fair warning: I don't measure for this one. I pour the pasta until it looks like enough, add cheese until it looks like slightly too much, and season until it smells right. Below are rough starting points if you'd like them. You won't need them for long.

Why this works

  • Starchy pasta water helps the cheese melt into a sauce instead of clumping.
  • Adding the liquid a little at a time lets you stop at exactly the creaminess you like.
  • Cajun seasoning brings salt, garlic and heat in one shake.

What I'd swap

  • Dairy-free half and half works just as well as regular.
  • Any melty shredded cheese works. I like a Swiss or Colby blend.
  • Any short pasta works if you're out of elbows.
  • Want the throwback version? Melt in white American cheese slices instead of shredded.

Cajun Mac n Cheese

Serves 2-ish · About 20 minutes

What you'll need

  • Elbow macaroniPour until it looks like dinner for twoAbout 1 cup dry
  • Half and half (dairy-free is fine)A good splash, more as neededStart with ¼ cup
  • Shredded cheeseA big handful, or twoAbout ½ cup
  • Cajun seasoningUntil it smells like a good decisionAbout 1 tablespoon
  • Pasta water (optional)Save a mugful before drainingAbout ¼ cup reserved

How to make it

  1. Boil the pasta in salted water until tender. Scoop out some pasta water before you drain it.

  2. Put the pasta back in the pot over low heat. Add the half and half and cheese and stir until melted.

  3. Too thick? Add more half and half or a splash of pasta water until it looks right to you.

  4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning. Taste, add more if you're brave, and serve as a main or a side.

Leftovers: add a splash of milk or water when you reheat so it gets creamy again.

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