Elevating Macaroni and Cheese with Canned Cheese Sauce: A Quick and Easy Recipe

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food enjoyed around the world. While traditional recipes may call for homemade cheese sauce or a melting pot of freshly grated cheese, did you know that you can also use canned cheese sauce to whip up a delicious dish? This method is quick, easy, and perfect for those days when you're in a rush or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal without the fuss. In this article, we will explore how to make macaroni and cheese using canned cheese sauce, complete with a recipe, tips, and a story from a home cook's experience.

Ingredients

1 box of macaroni (about 8 ounces) 1 can of cheese sauce (usually around 15 ounces) Water for boiling the pasta Optional: milk or butter for added creaminess Optional: seasonings like salt, pepper, or paprika Optional: add-ins like cooked bacon, vegetables, or breadcrumbs

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Heat the Cheese Sauce:

In a separate pot, heat the canned cheese sauce over medium heat. If desired, add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of butter to achieve a creamier texture.

Combine:

Once the cheese sauce is warm, add the drained macaroni to the pot. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the cheese sauce.

Season and Serve:

Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Optional seasonings include pepper, paprika, or other spices for added flavor. If you prefer a crispy topping, top with breadcrumbs and bake for a few minutes in the oven.

Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas or proteins like diced ham or chicken to the mix. If you like a bit of spice, add some hot sauce or jalape?os for an extra kick.

A Heartwarming Story: Feathers' Park Casserole

Years ago, I used canned cheese sauce to prepare a macaroni and cheese casserole for the homeless at Featherly Park. This casserole not only provided a tasty and nutritious meal, but it was also easy to transport and cared for those in need. Interestingly, I shared this story with a comment that questioned the availability of real cheese and described the joys of using canned cheese sauce. Below is a recipe for a similar casserole.

Feathers' Park Casserole

Ingredients:

2 cups macaroni 1 can tuna (drained) 1 can cheddar cheese soup 1 cup celery, sliced thin 1 cup milk 10 oz pkg frozen peas (thawed) 1/2 tsp dry mustard 1 tsp seasoned salt

Instructions:

Cook the macaroni until tender, then drain. Mix together the cheddar cheese soup, milk, dry mustard, and seasoned salt. In a 2-quart casserole dish, combine the sauce, cooked macaroni, and drained tuna. Add sliced celery and thawed peas. Bake covered at 350°F for 25 minutes.

Feel free to adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making macaroni and cheese a versatile and comforting meal for any occasion.

Conclusion

Using canned cheese sauce to make macaroni and cheese is a time-saving trick that still delivers a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this method ensures a memorable dish with minimal effort.