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3-Ingredient Spicy
Macaroni and Cheese
As a new mom, life can be a whirlwind of diaper changes, late-night feedings, and trying to find a moment to shower.
The last thing you need is the added stress of preparing a complicated meal.
That’s why I’m excited to share this incredibly easy and delicious 3-ingredient spicy macaroni and cheese recipe.
It’s perfect for those days when you’re running on fumes but still want to enjoy a comforting and tasty meal.
Table of Contents
Why This Spicy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Works
Using boxed mac and cheese as the base, this recipe adds a spicy twist with Rotel chilis and a hearty boost of ground beef.
It’s a perfect meal for those hectic days when you need something quick, filling, and delicious.
Ingredients:
Boxed Mac and Cheese: Any brand will do, just make sure to follow the package instructions.
Spicy Rotel Chilis: One can of spicy Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilis.
Ground Beef: 1 pound of ground beef.
Instructions:
Cook the Mac and Cheese:
- Follow the instructions on the box to prepare the macaroni. This typically involves boiling the pasta in salted water for about 7-8 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the cheese sauce mix, along with the recommended amount of butter and milk from the box instructions. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add the Rotel Chilis:
- Pour the can of Rotel chilis (do not drain) into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Combine Everything:
- Add the beef and Rotel mixture to the prepared macaroni and cheese. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed and coated with the cheesy sauce.
And that’s it! Your spicy mac and cheese is ready to serve. Enjoy the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the added spice and heartiness of beef and chilis.
How to Store 3-Ingredient Spicy
Macaroni and Cheese
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The mac and cheese will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply microwave it with a splash of milk to keep it creamy, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Versatility of Spicy Macaroni and Cheese
One of the best things about spicy macaroni and cheese is how versatile it can be. Here are some ideas to jazz up your dish if you have a few extra minutes or ingredients on hand:
Change up the Protein: Stir in some cooked chicken, crispy bacon bits, or even a can of drained tuna for a more filling meal. This can be a great way to use up leftovers and make the dish even heartier.
Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables. Peas, broccoli florets, or sautéed spinach mix in seamlessly and add a nice color contrast to the dish.
If you have a bit more time, roasted vegetables like butternut squash or bell peppers can add a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor.
Crunchy Topping: For a bit of texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top and bake the dish for a few minutes.
This can give your spicy macaroni and cheese a delightful crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile. A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives a stretchy, melty quality, while adding some Parmesan can provide a nice tangy kick.
How to use Macaroni Noodles Beyond Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni is a pantry staple that can be the base for so many quick and delicious meals.
Beyond mac and cheese, you can use it in pasta salads, casseroles, and even soups. It’s affordable, easy to cook, and universally loved, making it a perfect ingredient for busy moms.
For instance, a quick tuna pasta salad can be made with macaroni, canned tuna, a dollop of mayonnaise, and some chopped celery and onions. Or try a comforting chicken noodle soup using macaroni instead of traditional egg noodles.
In conclusion, this 3-ingredient spicy macaroni and cheese is a fantastic go-to recipe for any new mom looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
It’s easy to make, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Plus, with simple storage instructions, you can enjoy it as leftovers, making it even more convenient.
Give it a try and enjoy a little culinary comfort during those busy postpartum days!
Additional Recipes
3-Ingredient Spicy Macaroni and Cheese
Zesty Macaroni and Cheese combines the classic comfort of boxed macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of Rotel chilis and the hearty addition of ground beef, creating a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
- Boxed Mac and Cheese: Any brand will do follow the package instructions.
- 1 15oz Spicy Rotel Chilis
- 1 lb Ground Beef
Instructions
Cook Macaroni and Cheese
- Follow the instructions on the box to prepare the macaroni. This typically involves boiling the pasta in salted water for about 7-8 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the cheese sauce mix, along with the recommended amount of butter and milk from the box instructions. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Cook the Ground Beef
- While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add the Rotel Chilis
- Pour the can of Rotel chilis (do not drain) into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
Combine Everything
- Add the beef and Rotel mixture to the prepared macaroni and cheese. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed and coated with the cheesy sauce.
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