OUR KID'S FAVORITE MAC AND CHEESE
- WineCheeseScallops
- Jan 9
- 4 min read
Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of mac & cheese? Our Kid’s Favorite Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that has become a must-have at our family table. Perfectly seasoned and oh-so-smooth, it combines sharp white cheddar and a touch of Velveeta for a texture and flavor the whole family will adore. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this recipe delivers smiles in every bite!
The best part? It’s customizable! Use your favorite cheeses, adjust the seasoning, or sneak in some veggies to make it your own. Ready to discover your family’s new favorite?
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Extra Sharp White Cheddar
This cheese packs a bold and tangy punch that balances perfectly with the creamy texture of the dish. Not only does it add richness, but its sharpness enhances the flavor profile, making every bite more satisfying. Did you know that cheddar originated in England in the 12th century? It’s been a staple for centuries, and for good reason!
Processed Cheese (Velveeta)
Velveeta may not be fancy, but it’s the secret ingredient for achieving that ultra-smooth, velvety texture we all crave in mac & cheese. Its melting magic ensures every pasta shell is evenly coated in cheesy goodness, making it a kid-approved favorite!
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Recipe’s Origin
This recipe came to life one busy weeknight when we wanted a quick, satisfying dinner the whole family could agree on. With kids who are picky eaters, it was all about finding the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and flavor. After a few trials (and lots of taste-testing by our little ones), this version emerged as the winner!
The combination of sharp cheddar for flavor and Velveeta for texture was a hit. Adding a touch of seasoned salt and extra pepper brought it to life, and now it’s the most requested dish in our household.
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Tips, Serving Suggestions, and Storage Advice | MAC AND CHEESE
Use any small pasta shape your kids love—mini elbows or cavatappi work wonderfully too.
Want more creaminess? Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for extra nutrition without complaints.
Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
For a crispy top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs and parmesan, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Prep ahead! The cheese sauce can be made and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just reheat and stir into freshly cooked pasta.
If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it up with a splash of milk.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick lunches—just reheat in the microwave with a bit of milk.
Serve alongside chicken tenders or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Sprinkle on a pinch of paprika or fresh herbs for added flair.
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Unique Recipe Qualities
Super creamy and kid-approved.
Uses a mix of cheeses for depth and smoothness.
Easy to customize with favorite ingredients.
Quick and simple—perfect for weeknights.
Packed with flavor thanks to seasoned salt and pepper.
Minimal cleanup with just one pot for the sauce.
Comfort food that adults love too.
Can be prepped ahead or frozen for later.
Pairs well with almost any side dish.
A tried-and-true family recipe that’s become a tradition!
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Ingredients
1 pound mini pasta shells
2 cups whole milk
1 tbsp butter
2 cups grated seriously sharp white cheddar (or your choice of cheese)
8 oz processed cheese (e.g., Velveeta), diced
1 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste; we use 2 tsp for extra flavor)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp seasoned salt
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat the milk and butter, stirring to prevent scalding.
Add the diced processed cheese, stirring until melted. Gradually add the grated cheddar, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with black pepper, salt, and seasoned salt. Mix well.
Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
MUST-HAVE TOOLS FOR THIS RECIPE
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FAQ Section
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?A: Absolutely! Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a twist.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?A: Yes! Just swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety.
Q: How can I make it creamier?A: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?A: Yes! Freeze individual portions and reheat with a splash of milk.
Q: Can I make this in advance?A: The cheese sauce can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
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