Dinner for 4
Confetti Mac and Cheese
Shell pasta cooks with milk, water, vegetables, and seasonings before melted American and cheddar cheeses finish the sauce.
$4.50for 4 servings
$1.13 per serving$4.50 for 4
Typical price: Salefork's estimate of an everyday US shelf price for each ingredient. Pick your city to price it from this week's ad.
Photo: peasandcrayons.com
- 30 minstart to table
- Easydifficulty
- 4servings as written
- $typical cost tier
AmericanVegetarianBudgetFamilySide dishesDinnersCold-weather comfort
What it costs
Pick your city to see which ingredients are on sale
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen vegetables$0.10/oz typical | 5 oz | $0.50Typical price |
| Milk$0.04/oz typical | 8.5 oz | $0.34Typical price |
| Pasta$0.10/oz typical | 8 oz | $0.80Typical price |
| Swiss, provolone, gouda$0.40/oz typical | 4 oz | $1.60Typical price |
| Cheddar and shredded cheese$0.30/oz typical | 4 oz | $1.20Typical price |
| Total for the servings shown | $4.50 | |
Pantry staples you likely have
Mustard, mayo, ketchupDried spices (cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano)Salt and pepper
Not included in the cost.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked/leftover veggies
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz mini shell pasta or regular elbow macaroni
- 4 oz deli-counter american cheese
- 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper or sweet paprika
- 4 oz sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper (optional)
Steps
- Combine the water, milk, pasta, vegetables, mustard, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender.
- Stir in the American cheese and cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
Swaps
- Cheddar and shredded cheese for Mozzarellaabout the same price
- Milk for Almond, soy or oat milkabout $0.01/oz more at typical prices
- Pasta for Egg noodlesabout $0.04/oz more at typical prices
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