Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs
A childhood classic that never gets old. Creamy, cheesy macaroni is mixed with savory sliced hot dogs for a quick, comforting, and kid-friendly meal that's ready in under 30 minutes. It's the ultimate comfort food for a busy weeknight.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Pasta and Hot Dogs
- b.Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt, then the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- c.While the pasta cooks, slice the hot dogs into 1/2-inch rounds.
- d.In a separate large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Cheese Sauce Base (Roux)
- b.In the same skillet used for the hot dogs, melt the remaining 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
- c.Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This mixture, called a roux, will look like a thick paste and should smell slightly nutty.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Creamy Sauce
- b.Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
- c.Continue cooking and stirring frequently until the sauce comes to a gentle simmer and thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Melt the Cheese and Combine
- b.Remove the pot from the heat. This is crucial to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or separating.
- c.Add the shredded cheddar cheese, 0.5 tsp salt, black pepper, paprika, and mustard powder. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- d.Return the cooked pasta and browned hot dogs to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Serve the mac and cheese hot, straight from the pot, for the best creamy texture.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest sauce, shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- 2Use whole milk for the richest flavor and texture. Lower-fat milk can result in a thinner sauce.
- 3Slightly warming the milk before adding it to the roux helps create a smoother, lump-free sauce.
- 4Be careful not to overcook the pasta initially, as it will absorb more liquid and soften further in the hot cheese sauce.
- 5To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk to the pan or microwave-safe bowl to help restore the sauce's creaminess.
- 6The mustard powder doesn't make it taste like mustard; it enhances the cheese flavor and adds a subtle tang.
Adapt it for your goals.
Baked Mac and Cheese
After combining everything, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat. Using spicy sausage instead of hot dogs also works well.
Veggie LoadedVeggie Loaded
Stir in a cup of steamed broccoli florets, frozen peas (thawed), or sautéed mushrooms along with the pasta and hot dogs for added nutrition and texture.
Gourmet Cheese BlendGourmet Cheese Blend
Swap out some of the cheddar for other good melting cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for a more complex flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The combination of hot dogs, cheese, and milk provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Calcium
Thanks to the generous amounts of milk and cheese, this dish is a good source of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Provides Energy
The carbohydrates from the pasta serve as a primary source of energy, making this a hearty and satisfying meal that can fuel your activities.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the specific brands of cheese, milk, and hot dogs used.