15 Minute Dinner
A quick and hearty 15-minute dinner combining cheesy macaroni, tender chicken or tuna, peas, and creamy sauce—perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, put the garden peas in 2 quarts of water. Bring to a boil and add macaroni.
- Cook until the macaroni is done and then drain.
- Put butter and milk in the pot; add the cheese mix, then add the drained macaroni and peas, and then the chicken.
- Stir well and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra splash of milk or a dollop of cream. If you want to boost the nutrition, toss in some chopped spinach or other veggies you have on hand. This recipe is also versatile; you can swap out the chicken for tuna or even use a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this quick dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Creamy Cheese Grits for a comforting dinner. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top or add a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 15 Minute Dinner contains roughly 485 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to blanch them briefly before adding them to the dish to ensure they cook through and retain their bright color and sweetness.
What can I substitute for Kraft macaroni and cheese?
If you prefer, you can use any boxed macaroni and cheese or even make your own cheese sauce. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before adding it to the mixture for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance, like cooking the macaroni and peas, but it's best to combine everything just before serving. This keeps the dish from becoming too mushy and maintains the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).