Boxed mac and cheese is an easy way to save both time and money.  We can stock up when it is on sale and keep it in the pantry.  The noodle variations are great but sometimes a little extra flavor from additional ingredients help this budget meal taste a bit more expensive than it actually is.  Classic combinations like broccoli and cheese sauce are always a hit.  If kids aren’t especially fond of broccoli on its own, chances are good they will like it this way.  Bacon added with the broccoli give this dish a bit more depth and interest.   It can be a complete meal or served as a side dish with your favorite chicken, pork or seafood. 

1   -  6 to 7.25 ounce package macaroni and cheese dinner, prepared according to package directions
Additional  1/2  cup of milk
2    cups broccoli florets
8    ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese *
1/3   cup bacon bits or pieces 
1/4   teaspoon each  garlic salt, onion powder, and yellow mustard

Just after preparing the mac and cheese according to package directions, add remaining ingredients.  Heat through until cheese is melted and broccoli is crisp tender.  Makes 3-4 Servings.  Enjoy! 

*Shredded cheese can be expensive if it’s not on sale.  There are a couple of options here.  One, I buy it when it is on sale and freeze it.  For cooked one dish meals like this, it works great.  The other option is to use the sliced cheese that you may have available, chop it up and while it may take a bit longer to heat through and melt, you can simply use what you already have on hand in the fridge.