Creamy Dreamy Prego Mac and Cheese: A Quick & Easy Recipe
Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal that's ready in minutes? Look no further than this Prego Mac and Cheese recipe! This twist on a classic combines the richness of creamy mac and cheese with the tangy, savory depth of Prego pasta sauce. It's the perfect weeknight dinner, satisfying side dish, or even a fun weekend lunch. Let's dive into this delicious recipe!
What Makes This Prego Mac and Cheese Recipe Special?
This isn't your grandma's mac and cheese (unless your grandma is a culinary genius!). We're elevating the classic by adding a secret ingredient: Prego! This simple addition provides a surprising depth of flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. The result is a richer, more complex, and utterly irresistible dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar Prego pasta sauce (your favorite variety works!)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, bacon bits, chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
- Add Milk and Prego: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in the Prego pasta sauce and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Serve immediately, topped with your favorite additions like breadcrumbs, bacon bits, or green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Go Gourmet: Use higher-quality cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for a more sophisticated flavor.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
- Make it a Bake: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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