Upgraded Mac and Cheese
Boxed mac and cheese is a starting point, not the finish line. Add a vegetable and a protein and suddenly it's a balanced, filling meal.
Time
20 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
3–4
Ingredients 4 items
- 1 box macaroni and cheese (any brand)
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna or canned chicken, drained
- ½ cup frozen or canned peas, drained if canned
- Butter and milk as directed on the box
- Optional: Extra shredded cheese on top, Salt and pepper, Garlic powder, Hot sauce, Crushed crackers on top, broiled for crunch
Equipment
- Medium pot
- Colander or strainer
- Can opener
- Stirring spoon
Allergens: Contains Dairy (cheese powder, butter, milk), Gluten (pasta).
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to the box directions. Drain.
- Return the pasta to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and cheese powder as the box directs. Stir until creamy.
- Stir in the drained tuna or chicken and the peas. Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
- Season with salt, pepper, or garlic powder if you have them. Serve hot.
notes & tips
- Tuna vs chicken: Both work equally well. Use whichever you have.
- Other add-ins: Drained canned corn, diced hot dogs, canned diced tomatoes, or frozen broccoli all work great stirred in.
- No canned protein? It's still a more complete meal with just the peas added.
- Make it creamy: An extra tablespoon of butter and a splash more milk than the box calls for makes it richer.
- Leftovers: Reheat with a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back.