Polka Dot Macaroni And Cheese

print recipe
email recipe
save recipe
add photo
add review
#89865

Polka dot macaroni is a kiddy classic. Sliced up hot dog "polka dots" baked on top of creamy mac n' cheese is fun and impossible for kids to turn down. For the adults, how about some smoked sausage or chorizo dots?

serves/makes:

ready in:
30-60 minutes

ingredients

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
1 can (10.75 ounce size) Cheddar cheese soup
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 hot dogs, sliced in thin rounds

directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.

Cook the macaroni as directed on the package. Drain well.

In a large bowl, mix together the soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until combined. Stir the cooked pasta into the soup mixture. Transfer the pasta to the greased baking dish.

Sprinkle the hot dog slices evenly over the top of the pasta.

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes or until heated through.

Serve the macaroni and cheese hot.

recipe tips

For extra creaminess, add a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.

Sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a crunchy topping.

Adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder can enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce.

If the macaroni and cheese seems too dry after baking, stir in a little milk before serving to moisten it.

For a fun variation, try using different shapes of pasta to keep the dish interesting for kids.

To make the dish spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Consider adding a layer of cooked vegetables like spinach or tomatoes under the hot dog slices for added nutrition.

Experiment with different types of hot dogs or sausages to find the flavor combination that your family enjoys the most.

common recipe questions

What type of macaroni is best?

Standard elbow macaroni is ideal for this recipe as it holds the cheese sauce well. However, other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini can also be used.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Cheddar cheese soup?

You can substitute nacho cheese sauce or velveeta. Or, you can make a homemade cheese sauce using grated cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack. Melt the cheese into a basic white sauce.

Is Worcestershire sauce essential in this recipe?

Worcestershire sauce adds flavor, but it can be omitted or replaced with a dash of soy sauce or mustard for a different taste.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese or cheese soup, and turkey or chicken hot dogs. You can also add vegetables like peas or broccoli to the pasta mix.

Can I prepare the recipe in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Can I use different meats instead of hot dogs?

For a more adult version, try using smoked sausage, chorizo, or even bacon. Just make sure the meat is pre-cooked or cured since the baking time is relatively short.