Kiddie Mac N Cheese
Brighten up mealtime with this creamy, kid-approved "Kiddie Mac N Cheese," a quick and easy homemade twist on the classic comfort food. Made with just a handful of pantry staples like elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and whole milk, this recipe comes together in only 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or picky eaters. A velvety, cheesy sauce envelops the tender pasta, creating a dish that's both simple and satisfying. Plus, a touch of optional paprika adds a pop of color and subtle flavor, if desired. With its short prep time and guaranteed smiles, this two-serving mac and cheese is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for toddlers, kids, or anyone craving a nostalgic meal!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Whole milk
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 0.125 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly to make a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, or until it begins to bubble and turns slightly golden.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to break up any lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt and stir well to combine.
Add the cooked macaroni back to the pot and stir until all the noodles are evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a small sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1218 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.0 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.7 g | 214% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 212 mg | 71% | |
| Sodium | 1414 mg | 61% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 98.0 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.4 g | ||
| Protein | 51.5 g | 103% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.7 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 1115 mg | 86% | |
| Iron | 4.0 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 387 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
