Calling all cheese lovers on a tight budget! This 5-Buck Mac Attack is your new best friend. With pantry staples and a burst of cheesy goodness, it’s a satisfying and affordable comfort food that will leave you happy and content.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Super Easy & Quick: Whip up this mac and cheese in under 15 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights or cheesy emergencies.
- Kind on Your Wallet: Made with common ingredients, this recipe costs less than $5, making it a budget champion.
- Cheese Explosion: Melty cheese is the star of the show, delivering a satisfying and creamy experience.
- Customizable Canvas: Feel free to get creative! Add cooked vegetables, breadcrumbs for a crispy topping, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs.
- Family-Friendly: This creamy mac and cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients (for 2-3 servings):
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any small pasta you have on hand)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (any kind you have on hand works!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to package instructions for al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Milk Time: Slowly whisk in the milk, one splash at a time, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Cheese Heaven: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and incorporated. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika (optional) to taste.
- Pasta Party: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy! Plate your cheesy delight and savor the 5-Buck Mac Attack victory.
Tips:
- To make this recipe even more affordable, you can substitute shredded mozzarella cheese for the cheddar cheese.
- If your sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash or two of milk to thin it out.
- Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through.
Final Thoughts:
The 5-Buck Mac Attack proves that deliciousness doesn’t have to break the bank. With its ease of preparation, affordability, and cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your budget-friendly comfort food arsenal. So grab your pantry staples, put on a pot of water, and embrace the cheesy bliss of the 5-Buck Mac Attack!
