Get ready to transform your ordinary mac and cheese into an epic comfort food adventure that'll have your taste buds dancing! 🧀🌠This Creamy Hot Dog Macaroni Cheese is the ultimate mash-up of childhood favorites that turns a simple pasta dish into a crowd-pleasing sensation. Imagine the classic, velvety cheese sauce meeting perfectly sautéed hot dog slices, creating a meal that's both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Whether you're feeding hungry kids or looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that proves sometimes the most unexpected combinations create culinary magic!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 hot dogs, sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, slice hot dogs into thin, diagonal rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced hot dogs and sauté until they develop light golden edges, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in milk. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese and hot dog mixture, gently stirring to ensure even coating. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added crunch.
- Optional: For a golden top, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until breadcrumbs are lightly toasted.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- • For the creamiest sauce, use room temperature milk and gradually add cheese while stirring continuously. • Choose high-quality hot dogs for the best flavor - all-beef or artisan varieties work wonderfully. • Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente to prevent mushy mac and cheese. • For extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs in a separate pan with a little butter before sprinkling on top. • If you want a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese. • Make sure to season your sauce well - taste and adjust salt and pepper before mixing with pasta. • For a golden, crispy top, watch carefully under the broiler to prevent burning. • This dish is best served immediately, but you can keep it warm in a low-temperature oven for short periods.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
