Kids Mac&cheese Recipe

Boil pasta

Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil (about 4 cups). Add 1/2 tsp salt. Add 1.5 cups elbow macaroni and cook uncovered according to package directions until just tender (usually 7–8 minutes) for a kid-friendly soft bite. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make roux

In the same pot over medium heat, melt 2 tbs unsalted butter. Sprinkle in 2 tbs all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth paste (roux).

Add milk

Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 2–3 minutes. Lower heat to medium-low so it doesn't boil vigorously.

Finish cheese sauce

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1.25 cups shredded yellow cheddar cheese and 2 tbs cream cheese (if using) until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in up to the reserved 1/4 cup pasta water, 1 tbs at a time, until desired creaminess is reached. Season with 1 tsp ground black pepper and 1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional). Taste and adjust lightly (do not over-salt; the cheese is already salty).

Combine

Return drained macaroni to the pot and gently fold to coat every piece with the cheese sauce. Keep warm on the lowest heat for 1 minute, stirring occasionally so it doesn't stick, then remove from heat.

Bake tater tots

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange 16 oz frozen tater tots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. If you want extra crispness, lightly brush or spray with 1 tsp vegetable oil. Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Baking times vary by brand—follow package if different.

Serve with ketchup

Remove tater tots from oven, let rest 1 minute, and transfer to plate with a small ramekin of 2 tbs ketchup for dipping.

Rinse and prepare 1 cup mixed fresh fruit (for example: 1/2 cup grapes halved, 1/4 cup apple slices trimmed and lightly tossed with a few drops of lemon to prevent browning, or 1/2 cup berries). Place fruit in a small side bowl or section of the plate. Keep chilled until plating.