COMFY Broccoli Sausage Mac and Cheese Casserole
A hearty baked casserole that transforms prepared mac and cheese into a complete meal with tender broccoli, carrots, and smoky sausage. The colby-monterey jack cheese creates a golden, bubbly top while milk keeps the interior creamy. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want comfort food without starting from scratch, this one-dish meal feeds a family and uses convenient pre-cooked ingredients for quick assembly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked broccoli, chopped
- ½ cup cooked carrot, diced
- 6 ounces cooked smoked sausage, chopped
- 2 ½ cups prepared macaroni and cheese
- 1 cup colby-monterey jack cheese, shredded, dividedcheddar cheese1:1adds dairy
Sharp cheddar adds more flavor
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and spray casserole dish with cooking spray
- 2
Mix broccoli, carrots, and smoked sausage in large bowl
- 3
Add macaroni and cheese and most of the cheese blend with enough milk to blend well
- 4
Season with garlic powder and black pepper, mixing well
- 5
Taste and adjust seasonings if desired
- 6
Pour mixture into prepared dish and sprinkle remaining cheese over top
- 7
Bake until golden brown
Tips
Use leftover vegetables or steam fresh ones until tender before adding to keep texture firm after baking.
Reserve some cheese for topping to create an appealing golden crust that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Add milk gradually until mixture reaches desired consistency since prepared mac and cheese varies in thickness.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or warm covered in 325F oven.
Assemble completely and refrigerate covered up to 1 day before baking. Add 10 minutes to baking time if cold.
Serve hot as main dish with simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the cooking spray to avoid sticking and difficult cleanup.
Don't add all milk at once to avoid making mixture too thin.
Substitutions
More control over flavor and texture
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh cooked ones?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen vegetables completely before mixing to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole watery.
What if I don't have colby-monterey jack cheese?
Any good melting cheese works well including cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored leftovers keep for 3-4 days refrigerated and reheat well in the microwave or low oven.