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Cajun Mac and Cheese

Recipe by Donaldo Estevam on InstagramAdded 31 October 2026.

20 minutes to prep, 30 to cook. A hearty Cajun-inspired mac and cheese loaded with fried chicken, sausage, and a spicy orange cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy crumb mixture. This comforting casserole packs protein and bold flavor, making it perfect for a satisfying dinner or holiday gathering.

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Cajun Mac and Cheese by Donaldo Estevam, a frame from the Instagram video

Method

  1. Add fried chicken pieces to cooked macaroni in a baking pan and mix together.

  2. Stir the seasoned meat pieces with the macaroni until evenly distributed.

  3. Pour a thick orange sauce over the pasta and meat mixture.

  4. Add a piece of sausage and pour the orange sauce over it as well.

  5. Scatter the crumb topping over the entire surface of the casserole.

  6. Season raw chicken pieces with seasoning and coat them with a red spice powder.

  7. Shake the bowl to evenly coat the chicken with the spice mixture.

  8. Melt butter in a pan, then add flour and stir to form a roux.

  9. Gradually pour milk into the roux, stirring until smooth.

  10. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and the sauce turns orange.

  11. Add cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

  12. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni, chicken, and sausage in the baking pan.

  13. Place the prepared dish in an air fryer (or oven set to roast) and cook until golden brown.

  14. Remove the cooked dish from the air fryer and serve.

Tips while you cook

Evenly distribute meat
Mix the fried chicken pieces with the cooked macaroni before adding the sauce.
Smooth cheese sauce
Melt butter, stir in flour to form a roux, then gradually whisk in milk before adding shredded cheese.
Crisp crumb topping
Scatter the crumb topping over the casserole before air‑frying.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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Donaldo Estevam made this.

The recipe comes from Donaldo Estevam’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

Are you Donaldo Estevam and want this changed? Email [email protected].

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