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Creamy Cheesy Bratwurst Mac & Cheese with melted cheddar and savory bratwurst slices.

Cheesy Bratwurst Mac & Cheese

A cozy and filling dinner combining bratwurst, a creamy cheese sauce, and baked to perfection, ideal for family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni Can also use shells or cavatappi.
  • 4-5 links bratwurst Sliced into coins and pre-cooked.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp butter For the sauce base.
  • 2 tbsp flour For thickening the sauce.
  • 2 cups whole milk Whole milk is richer, but 2% is fine.
  • 2 cups cheese Mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack. Shred your own if possible.
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp salt For seasoning the sauce.
  • 1 tsp black pepper To taste.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Flavor enhancement.
  • 1 pinch paprika A touch for flavor.
Optional Add-ins
  • diced onions For additional flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard For a little tang.
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce For spiciness.
  • 1/2 cup buttered breadcrumbs For topping, optional for crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until just barely done. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the bratwurst: Slice the bratwurst and cook in a skillet until golden. Add diced onions if desired.
Sauce Preparation
  1. Make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour, and cook for about a minute. Slowly whisk in milk and stir until it thickens.
  2. Add cheese and seasoning: Turn the heat low and stir in cheese, followed by pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust salt to taste.
Combine and Bake
  1. Combine pasta, sauce, and bratwurst. If it's too thick, add a splash of milk.
  2. Pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, adding a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.