10 mac and cheese hacks for fast family meals

Create a simple and filling semi-homemade dinner by adding a few ingredients from your pantry or refrigerator to a box of macaroni and cheese. These ten mac and cheese hacks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in less than 30 minutes.

Macaroni and cheese is a classic family staple, at least in my house. The combination of carbs and cheese creates some kind of magic comfort, whether you’re an adult or a child.

One of my favorite go-to family meals is mac and cheese or one of its many variations. I love to make it from scratch, but when I’m in a pinch and just want something quick and easy, I reach for the box.

Turn a box {or a few} into a filling, weeknight family meal with the addition of just a few ingredients. Cooked meats, chopped veggies and even leftovers from last night make a great addition. Here are a dozen ideas to inspire you.

Mac and cheese additions

1. cooked, diced chicken + cooked, crumbled bacon

Or see my from-scratch chicken bacon mac and cheese in Seasonal Meal Plans.

2. cooked broccoli florets + drained canned tuna

3. pesto sauce + halved cherry tomatoes

4. cooked, diced chicken + cooked, chopped onion and bell peppers

Or see my from-scratch chicken fajita mac and cheese.

5. diced kielbasa sausage + cooked, diced bell peppers

6. baby spinach + diced tomato + breadcrumbs for topping

7. leftover homemade chili or one can of chili

Or see my from-scratch cheesy Texas chili mac.

8. cooked, crumbled bacon + diced green onion + a handful of pepper jack cheese

9. peas + french fried onions for topping

10. cooked ground beef + drained canned tomatoes {or Rotel}

All of these ideas will go with whatever brand of mac and cheese you prefer. Some weeks I buy the blue box with the yellow cheese. Some weeks I buy organic shells and white cheddar. Our favorite is Simply Nature by Aldi, which comes in yellow or white cheddar and is usually about a dollar per box.