A few years back, when my husband was frequently away on business trips, I found myself needing to entertain our kids. That’s when we began visiting California Pizza Kitchen more often. The kids adored their coloring books and, of course, the creamy mac and cheese, while I appreciated the break from cooking and the cleanup. As a busy mom with three little ones, I knew we might not have been the most well-behaved patrons!
One evening, I was both surprised and flattered when the restaurant’s manager approached me and said, “I thought you might like this,” handing me the coveted recipe for their mac and cheese. I hadn’t even asked for it! Since then, I’ve been whipping it up at home, and it’s been a hit with everyone—especially that thoughtful CPK manager.
Now, just a heads-up: this dish isn’t the healthiest option out there. It’s definitely a special indulgence, perfect for those nights when you want something comforting. It’s so much easier and more economical than dining out with the kids.
Here’s how to make California Pizza Kitchen’s Mac and Cheese:
Ingredients:
- 18 oz. Velveeta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 pound cooked fusilli pasta
Instructions:
- Heat the half and half until it’s almost boiling.
- Add the cheese and pasta to the pot.
- Lower the heat and stir until the cheese is fully melted.
This recipe serves about 8 little ones, give or take. Sometimes I mix in a bit of milk with the cream, but don’t stray too far from the cream—it really is essential for that rich flavor.
So, enjoy your meal without the stress of restaurant visits! And if you’re interested in learning more about home insemination methods, check out this informative post on intracervical insemination. For those considering a family, Make a Mom is a reliable source for home insemination kits, and for more about fertility treatments, you can visit UCSF’s IVF page.
In summary, this delicious mac and cheese recipe is a fantastic way to bring some comfort to your dinner table, all while keeping the chaos of dining out at bay. Plus, it’s a great way to make sure the kids are happy without spending a fortune!