Weeknight Mac and Cheese
This recipe offers a comforting weeknight mac and cheese with three delicious topping options: Sausage and Pepper, Riced Veggie and Bacon, and Pepperoni and Veggie Pizza.
This recipe offers a comforting weeknight mac and cheese with three delicious topping options: Sausage and Pepper, Riced Veggie and Bacon, and Pepperoni and Veggie Pizza.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- freshly ground pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
- 2/3 cup chopped onion
- garlic salt to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/3 cup real bacon bits
- weeknight mac and cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups small elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups almond breeze unsweetened original almondmilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt, or to taste
- weeknight mac and cheese toppers:
- option 1: sausage and pepper
- 3/4 cup 1/4-inch diced turkey kielbasa
- 2/3 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- option 2: riced veggie and bacon
- 1 1/2 cups mixed riced cauliflower and broccoli
- option 3: pepperoni and veggie pizza
- 15 slices turkey pepperoni, cut into quarters
- 1/3 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/3 cup sliced olives (optional)
Step-by-step
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions, about 8 minutes.
- While macaroni is cooking, melt butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Whisk in Almond Breeze almondmilk and stock and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
- Stir in mustard, onion powder, and garlic salt.
- Add cheese a little at a time, cooking and stirring until melted before adding more. Season with pepper.
- Drain macaroni well and stir in. Cook for 5 minutes more, stirring occasionally.
- For Sausage and Pepper topping: Cook sausage and onion in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until sausage is browned and onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in bell pepper and thyme; cook and stir for 2 minutes more to soften peppers. Serve over hot Weeknight Mac and Cheese.
- For Riced Veggie and Bacon topping: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add bacon and cook for 2 minutes more. Stir in riced veggies; cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes to soften. Season with garlic salt. Serve over hot Weeknight Mac and Cheese.
- For Pepperoni and Veggie Pizza topping: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and pepperoni and cook until both are lightly browned, stirring frequently, about 5 minutes. Stir in bell pepper; cook and stir for 2 minutes to soften. Stir in olives, if desired. Spoon over hot Weeknight Mac and Cheese.
Weeknight Mac and Cheese: A Comfort Food Staple Reimagined
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and satisfying, especially after a long day juggling work meetings, school pick-ups, and endless to-do lists. That's why I've fallen head-over-heels for this Weeknight Mac and Cheese recipe. It's the perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness, a true lifesaver on those chaotic weeknights.
The base recipe is simple – creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone loves. But what truly elevates this dish beyond your average mac and cheese are the three incredible topping options. This isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure, a chance to explore different flavor profiles without spending hours in the kitchen. One night, it might be the savory kick of the Sausage and Pepper topping, the next, the delightful crunch of the Riced Veggie and Bacon, or the playful Italian flair of the Pepperoni and Veggie Pizza topping. The possibilities are endless, and the best part? My kids love choosing their favorite!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Instead of turkey kielbasa, try Italian sausage. If you don't have riced cauliflower and broccoli, use another riced vegetable mix or even finely chopped vegetables. The key is to have fun with it! Experiment with different cheeses, add a pinch of your favorite herbs and spices – personalize it to make it your own.
Beyond the taste, this mac and cheese recipe is a testament to efficient meal planning. The base can be prepared quickly, and the toppings can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, ready to be added to the hot macaroni when it's time to serve. This allows me to dedicate more time to other things, like spending quality moments with my kids or catching up on some much-needed rest. It’s a win-win!
Making memories around the table: More than just a satisfying meal, this mac and cheese recipe has become a centerpiece of our family dinners. It's a dish that sparks conversation, laughter, and shared moments. The kids love helping with the simpler tasks, like chopping vegetables or stirring the cheese sauce. It's a fun and engaging activity that strengthens family bonds.
So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and endlessly customizable weeknight dinner that will please the whole family (and leave you with some extra time for yourself), give this Weeknight Mac and Cheese recipe a try. You won't regret it! It's more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple, delicious food that brings families together.
Tips and Variations
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
• Add roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts, to the toppings for extra nutrients.
• If you're short on time, use pre-cooked sausage or bacon.
• Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs to the top for extra texture and flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage, bacon, and pepperoni.
No matter how you choose to make it, this Weeknight Mac and Cheese recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's the perfect comfort food that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Enjoy!
