Craving comfort food that's both quick and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This macaroni and cheese recipe elevates the classic dish to new heights with the addition of creamy cheddar cheese soup. It’s a simple twist that delivers unbelievably rich and satisfying results, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This easy recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, proving that homemade cooking can be both healthy and quick. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably delicious and easy-to-make dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese soup, cream of mushroom soup (if using), milk, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Step 3: Combine and Bake (Optional)
Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese (if using) into the cheese sauce. Add the cooked macaroni and stir gently to coat everything evenly.
For a baked mac and cheese, pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
If you skip baking, you can serve the macaroni and cheese immediately. Garnish with extra cheese, a sprinkle of paprika, or some chopped chives, if desired. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a comforting weekend meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Veggie boost: Mix in some steamed broccoli florets or chopped roasted vegetables for added nutrients.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or Colby Jack, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make it healthier: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese to lower the calorie and fat content.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always check your ingredient labels for the most accurate nutritional information.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Protein: Approximately 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
This macaroni and cheese recipe with cheddar cheese soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s adaptable enough to suit any taste. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments below!