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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.

Nut-FreeEgg-Free Main Dish
Prep: 5 min Cook: 15 min Total: 20 min Servings: 3–4 Difficulty: Easy

Allergens: Contains Dairy (cheese powder, butter, milk), Gluten (pasta).

Ingredients

  • 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 Extras

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni according to the box directions. Drain.
  2. Return the pasta to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and cheese powder as the box directs. Stir until creamy.
  3. Stir in the drained tuna or chicken and the peas. Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, or garlic powder if you have them. Serve hot.

Notes

  • 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.