Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Macaroni and cheese is a quintessential comfort food, a dish that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and pure, unadulterated cheesy goodness. While there are countless variations on this classic, one version stands out for its simplicity, speed, and undeniably creamy texture: Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese. Yes, you read that right. We’re ditching the roux, the shredded cheese blend, and the complicated sauce-making process in favor of a shortcut ingredient that delivers incredible results – Cheez Whiz.
Before you turn your nose up at the idea, hear us out. Cheez Whiz, despite its processed nature, melts beautifully and evenly, creating a velvety smooth sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s also incredibly convenient, requiring no grating or measuring. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, unexpected cravings, or when you just need a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness without the fuss.
This article will guide you through the process of making the perfect Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese, offering detailed instructions, tips, and variations to customize the dish to your liking. Get ready to rediscover a classic with a surprisingly delicious twist.
## Why Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese Works
Some may scoff at the idea of using Cheez Whiz in mac and cheese, but there are several compelling reasons why it works so well:
* **Unmatched Creaminess:** Cheez Whiz melts seamlessly, creating a smooth, luscious sauce that’s difficult to achieve with shredded cheese alone. There is no risk of graininess, clumping, or separation. The cheese sauce will be smooth.
* **Speed and Convenience:** Forget about making a roux or grating cheese. Cheez Whiz simplifies the process, making this recipe incredibly quick and easy. This is a great option for a fast meal. It is also easy for beginners and kids to make.
* **Consistent Results:** Cheez Whiz provides a consistent flavor and texture every time, eliminating the guesswork involved in using different types of cheese.
* **Kid-Friendly Appeal:** Let’s be honest, kids love Cheez Whiz! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
* **Nostalgia Factor:** For many, Cheez Whiz evokes memories of childhood lunches and after-school snacks. This recipe offers a comforting trip down memory lane.
## The Ultimate Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
* 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% work best)
* 1 (15-ounce) jar Cheez Whiz
* 1/4 cup butter (optional, for extra richness)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, paprika, hot sauce, cooked bacon, chopped chives
**Equipment:**
* Large pot
* Colander
* Large saucepan or pot
* Whisk or spoon
**Instructions:**
**Step 1: Cook the Macaroni**
1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water. This seasons the pasta from the inside out.
2. Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will become mushy in the finished dish. Slightly undercooking it will help with the end result since it will cook a bit more later when the sauce is added.
3. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Shake the colander to remove any excess water. A little water left in the pasta won’t hurt anything, but too much will water down the sauce.
**Step 2: Prepare the Cheez Whiz Sauce**
1. In a large saucepan or pot, combine the milk and Cheez Whiz. If using, add the butter at this stage. The butter adds a richer flavor and creamier texture to the sauce, but it’s optional.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or spoon. Be patient, as it may take a few minutes for the Cheez Whiz to melt completely.
3. Continue stirring until the Cheez Whiz is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Avoid boiling the sauce, as this can cause it to separate.
4. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. You want the sauce to be pourable but not too thin.
**Step 3: Combine the Macaroni and Cheese**
1. Add the drained macaroni to the saucepan with the Cheez Whiz sauce.
2. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all the macaroni with the sauce. Make sure every noodle is covered in that cheesy goodness.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that Cheez Whiz is already quite salty, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
**Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!**
1. Serve the Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
2. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as breadcrumbs, paprika, hot sauce, cooked bacon, or chopped chives. See the section below for more topping ideas.
## Tips for Perfect Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** As mentioned earlier, cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. Overcooked pasta will absorb too much sauce and result in a gloppy texture.
* **Use the Right Amount of Milk:** The amount of milk needed may vary depending on the consistency of the Cheez Whiz and your personal preference. Start with 1/2 cup and add more as needed to achieve the desired sauce thickness. Start slowly, it’s easier to add more than to take away.
* **Stir Constantly:** Stirring the Cheez Whiz sauce constantly is crucial to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. It also helps to ensure that the Cheez Whiz melts evenly and smoothly.
* **Don’t Boil the Sauce:** Boiling the Cheez Whiz sauce can cause it to separate and become grainy. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir gently.
* **Season Carefully:** Cheez Whiz is already quite salty, so be careful not to over-salt the dish. Taste the sauce before adding any additional salt.
* **Serve Immediately:** Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese is best served immediately while it’s hot and creamy. As it cools, the sauce will thicken and may become less appealing.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to customize your mac and cheese. See the section below for some delicious topping ideas.
* **Use Quality Pasta:** Using a higher quality pasta can really improve the end result. The texture and flavor of the pasta are important and will add to the experience.
* **Freshly Grated Black Pepper:** Freshly grated black pepper makes a huge difference to the flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. This adds a little punch to the dish.
## Variations and Add-Ins
One of the best things about mac and cheese is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins to take your Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese to the next level:
* **Spicy Mac & Cheese:** Add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can use any kind of hot sauce you prefer. Experiment with different levels of spice.
* **Bacon Mac & Cheese:** Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the mac and cheese. Sprinkle it on top as a garnish or mix it into the sauce.
* **Broccoli Mac & Cheese:** Add steamed or roasted broccoli florets to the mac and cheese for a healthy and delicious twist. Any other vegetable can be added such as cauliflower, peas or carrots.
* **Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese:** Shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo wing sauce adds a tangy and spicy element to the mac and cheese. Use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
* **Pizza Mac & Cheese:** Add pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce for a pizza-inspired mac and cheese. You can even add other pizza toppings like olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
* **Chili Mac & Cheese:** Top the mac and cheese with your favorite chili for a hearty and satisfying meal.
* **Garlic Mac & Cheese:** Add minced garlic to the sauce for a flavorful and aromatic twist. Saute the garlic in butter before adding the milk and Cheez Whiz for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
* **Crumbled Sausage:** Cooked and crumbled sausage goes really well with mac and cheese. The fattiness and spices go really well with the sauce and pasta.
## Delicious Topping Ideas
The right toppings can elevate your Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese from simple comfort food to a gourmet delight. Here are some topping ideas to consider:
* **Breadcrumbs:** Toasted breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. Toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter and garlic powder before toasting them for extra flavor.
* **Paprika:** A sprinkle of paprika adds a touch of color and a subtle smoky flavor.
* **Hot Sauce:** A dash of hot sauce adds a spicy kick.
* **Chopped Chives or Green Onions:** These add a fresh, herbaceous flavor and a pop of color.
* **Crumbled Crackers:** Crushed Ritz crackers or saltines add a salty and crunchy texture.
* **Shredded Cheese:** A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese adds extra cheesy goodness.
* **Everything Bagel Seasoning:** This adds a savory and flavorful crunch.
* **Fried Onions:** Crispy fried onions add a salty, savory crunch.
## Serving Suggestions
Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **As a Main Course:** Serve a generous portion of mac and cheese with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **As a Side Dish:** Serve a smaller portion of mac and cheese alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or hot dogs.
* **Potlucks and Parties:** Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for potlucks and parties. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time.
* **Comfort Food Meal:** Pair it with other comfort food favorites like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy for the ultimate comfort food feast.
## Making Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese Ahead of Time
While Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese is best served immediately, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it later. Here’s how:
1. Prepare the mac and cheese according to the recipe instructions.
2. Let it cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container.
3. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to loosen it up. Microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
5. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
Keep in mind that the mac and cheese may become slightly drier and less creamy after reheating. Adding a little extra milk can help to restore its original texture.
## Storage Instructions
Store leftover Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat as described above.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on portion size and toppings)
* Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving
* Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving
* Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams per serving
These values are estimates and may vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used. Always consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.
## Conclusion
Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese is a surprisingly delicious and incredibly easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Its creamy texture, convenient preparation, and nostalgic appeal make it a winner for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone craving a taste of cheesy goodness without the fuss. So, ditch the complicated recipes and give this shortcut version a try. You might just be surprised at how much you love it!
Experiment with different variations, toppings, and serving suggestions to create your own signature Cheez Whiz Mac & Cheese masterpiece. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, a side dish, or a potluck contribution, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!