One-Dish Macaroni & Cheese with Sausage

A weeknight casserole that brings together three things families already love: mac and cheese, kielbasa, and broccoli. Boxed, deli, or frozen mac and cheese gets combined with cooked broccoli and sliced Polish kielbasa in a baking dish, topped with buttery crushed crackers, and baked until bubbly and golden.

The cracker topping is what gives this casserole its crunch factor. Melting margarine with the crushed crackers coats them in fat so they toast up golden and crispy in the oven instead of drying out. It’s a simple move that makes the whole dish feel more finished.

Kielbasa is the ideal sausage for this because it’s already fully cooked. Just slice it into half-inch pieces and stir it in. No browning required, though a quick sear in a hot pan adds a smoky, caramelized edge if you have the time.

Kitchen Tips

• Use whatever mac and cheese you have: boxed, deli-counter, or frozen. All work equally well.
• Cook the broccoli until just tender, not mushy. It bakes for another 20 to 30 minutes in the casserole and will soften more.
• Use buttery crackers like Ritz for the topping. Saltines are too bland and don’t toast as well.

Variations

• Swap kielbasa for smoked chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add a handful of shredded cheddar on top with the cracker crumbs for extra cheesy goodness.
• Use cauliflower or green beans instead of broccoli.