Nduja Mac and Cheese

Nduja Mac and Cheese with cheddar and mozzarella. Creamy pasta with a mild spicy kick, ready in minutes.

I made this mac and cheese on a cool evening when we all wanted comfort food with a little extra warmth. The creamy cheese sauce felt familiar, but the nduja brought a gentle heat and deep flavor that made the whole dish feel new again. It filled the kitchen with a rich aroma that promised a good meal before we even sat down.

What I enjoy most about this recipe is how simple it is while still feeling special. The sauce comes together in one pan, and the nduja melts right into the cheese. You end up with a smooth, creamy bowl of pasta that has a soft warmth in every bite without being too spicy.

When I served it, the plates came back empty. The texture stayed silky, the flavor was rich, and it felt like something we would order at a small café. It is the kind of meal that feels dependable and comforting, yet still interesting enough to make again and again.

Questions you may have about this recipe

What is nduja
Nduja is a soft, spreadable pork sausage with a mild spicy flavor.

Is this dish very spicy
It has gentle heat. You can add less nduja if you want a milder taste.

Can I make it without nduja
Yes. Use cooked bacon or a pinch of chili flakes for a similar effect.

What cheese works best
Cheddar melts well and gives a strong, creamy flavor.

Can I bake it after mixing
Yes. Place it in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden.

What you need to make Nduja Mac and Cheese

12 oz elbow macaroni

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

3 tbsp nduja

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

How to make Nduja Mac and Cheese

Cook macaroni according to package directions.

Drain and set aside.

Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.

Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.

Cook until the sauce thickens.

Add cheddar, mozzarella, and nduja.

Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

Season with salt and pepper.

Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated.

Serve warm.

Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.

Keep the heat low when melting the cheese

Add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.

Serve right away for the creamiest texture.

Reader reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Rich, creamy, and just the right amount of warmth.” Linda P

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Nice twist on classic mac and cheese.” Robert F

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Very comforting and easy to make.” Diane C

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great flavor and smooth sauce.” Gerald M

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A simple dinner with a bit of character.” Susan W

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