Bob Evans Mac and Cheese Recipe Tips for Perfect Flavor
Bob Evans mac and cheese is a creamy, mild, and comforting dish. It’s a favorite in many families, found in restaurants and grocery stores. This guide helps you make the best mac and cheese at home, serving 10 people with about 366 kcal per serving.
The recipe uses 4 cups of cooked elbow macaroni, 16 ounces of Velveeta, and ½ cup of shredded mild cheddar. You’ll also need 1 cup of whole milk, ¾ teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, and salt and pepper. Prep takes 5 minutes, and cooking takes about 20 minutes, making it a quick dinner option.
You’ll need just a large pot and a pasta strainer for cooking. The mild flavor is great for kids and adults alike. Instagram is full of visual tips and variations to enhance your mac and cheese.
For those in a hurry, Bob Evans mac and cheese can be a quick base for skillet meals. Mix it with 1 pound of ground beef and cheddar and mozzarella for a hearty dinner in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights.
Why Bob Evans Mac and Cheese Inspires a Homemade Copycat
The restaurant-style bowl is known for its mild, creamy taste. It invites home cooks to try making it themselves. The smooth texture and comforting flavor make it perfect for weeknights and family gatherings.
What makes the restaurant version distinctive
Bob Evans uses processed cheese, shredded cheddar, and whole milk for creaminess. The processed cheese makes it smooth, while the cheddar adds depth. Low heat and gentle stirring keep the sauce smooth.
Why families and kids prefer the mild, creamy profile
Children like predictable tastes and soft textures. The mild cheese flavor is easy on their taste buds. The smooth sauce coats the pasta well, making it a hit with kids.
Benefits of making a copycat at home — cost, control, and convenience
Homemade versions save money and let you control the ingredients. You can adjust the salt, fat, and portion size. Busy cooks can start with pantry staples or use a Bob Evans tub for a quick start.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Copycat Bowl | Elbow pasta with Velveeta and mild cheddar sauce | 420 | $3.50 |
| Veggie-Boost Version | Added steamed carrots and peas for color and fiber | 380 | $3.90 |
| Protein One-Pan | Ground beef folded into creamy mac for a hearty meal | 560 | $4.75 |
| Lightened Swap | Lower-fat milk and reduced processed cheese for fewer calories | 310 | $3.25 |
| Kid-Sized Portion | Smaller serving with extra mild cheddar for picky palates | 260 | $1.80 |
| Family Pan | Large casserole to serve four, ready for gatherings | 440 | $9.00 |
| Quick Upgrade | Refrigerated Bob Evans tub warmed and brightened with herbs | 390 | $4.50 |
| Oven-Crisp Top | Baked with a light breadcrumb crust for texture contrast | 470 | $5.10 |
| Toddler Plate | Very mild, soft pasta cut small for easy chewing | 220 | $1.50 |
| Make-Ahead Batch | Prepared and chilled for fast reheating on busy nights | 400 | $8.00 |
Choosing the Right Pasta and Cheese for Classic Macaroni and Cheese
Choosing the right pasta and cheese is key to a great mac and cheese. For a Bob Evans-style dish, look for ingredients that melt smoothly and offer balanced flavors. This guide will help you pick the best pasta and cheese for a homemade mac and cheese that impresses everyone.
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice. It’s the right size for trapping sauce, making every bite perfect. This pasta shape ensures a good balance of pasta and sauce.
Best pasta shapes: elbow macaroni and alternatives for texture
Elbow macaroni gives that nostalgic bite. Small shells offer extra nooks for sauce if you want more pockets of creaminess.
Cavatappi brings a springy texture that lifts the sauce. Penne holds sauce in its tubes and gives slightly firmer chews.
Choose shapes that match how saucy you like the dish. For the sauciest results, prefer shapes with curves or tubes.
Cheese options to recreate the Bob Evans flavor: Velveeta, mild cheddar, blends
Use 16 ounces of Velveeta plus ½ cup freshly shredded mild or medium cheddar to mirror that mild, kid-friendly profile. Velveeta creates a stable, ultra-smooth base.
Mild cheddar contributes real cheese flavor without sharpness. Blending processed cheese with shredded cheddar reproduces the creamy, familiar taste families expect.
How cheese melting properties affect creaminess and mouthfeel
Processed cheese melts uniformly and resists graininess. Natural cheddars change with age; mild and medium cheddars melt more predictably than aged sharp varieties.
Freshly shredded cheddar integrates better than pre-shredded, which often has anti-caking agents that hinder smooth melting. Whole milk adds body and helps the sauce hold a velvety texture.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni (4 cups cooked) | Classic curved pasta that traps sauce for balanced bites | 340 kcal | $1.20 |
| Small Shells (4 cups cooked) | Shells hold extra sauce in their cups for creamier mouthfuls | 360 kcal | $1.35 |
| Cavatappi (4 cups cooked) | Spiral shape adds texture and lifts sauce for a toothsome bite | 370 kcal | $1.80 |
| Penne (4 cups cooked) | Tube shape keeps sauce inside for concentrated flavor | 360 kcal | $1.50 |
| Velveeta (16 oz) | Processed cheese with ultra-smooth melting, base for consistency | 1440 kcal | $4.00 |
| Mild Cheddar (½ cup shredded) | Gives mild real-cheese flavor without sharpness | 55 kcal | $0.75 |
| Medium Cheddar (½ cup shredded) | Slightly stronger flavor while keeping good meltability | 60 kcal | $0.80 |
| Whole Milk (1 cup) | Adds body and silkiness to the sauce | 150 kcal | $0.40 |
| Freshly Shredded Cheddar (1 cup) | Better melt and integration than pre-shredded for smooth texture | 220 kcal | $1.60 |
| Blend: Velveeta + Mild Cheddar | Classic mix for a creamy, mild cheesy pasta dish | 1500 kcal | $4.75 |
Perfecting the Sauce: Creamy, Mild, and Smooth Cheesy Sauce
Small changes in ingredients and technique can make a big difference. They turn a simple pasta dish into a comforting favorite, like bob evans mac and cheese. Use the right ingredients and low heat to keep the sauce smooth and glossy. This method ensures homemade mac and cheese that families will love.
Begin with 16 oz Velveeta, chopped, ½ cup shredded mild cheddar, and 1 cup whole milk. Spray a heavy-bottomed pot, mix the cheese and milk, and melt on low heat. Stir often until it’s even. This prevents graininess and makes a silky sauce perfect for comfort food.
Whole milk is key for a rich sauce. Lower-fat milk might make it too thin and need more cheese. Avoid boiling. If it starts to simmer, lower the heat and stir to keep the cheese smooth.
Season it gently to match the mild taste of restaurant mac and cheese. Add ¾ teaspoon paprika and 1 teaspoon dry mustard. Then, add salt and black pepper to taste. Paprika adds color and sweetness. Dry mustard enhances the cheese flavor without adding heat. These seasonings make the dish enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Velveeta (16 oz) | Smooth processed cheese for meltability | 1,760 | $3.50 |
| Mild Cheddar (½ cup) | Adds cheddar flavor without sharpness | 180 | $1.20 |
| Whole Milk (1 cup) | Creates rich, stable sauce emulsion | 150 | $0.40 |
| Paprika (¾ tsp) | Color and mild sweetness | 2 | $0.05 |
| Dry Mustard (1 tsp) | Enhances cheese depth without heat | 6 | $0.05 |
| Salt (to taste) | Balances and brightens flavors | 0 | $0.01 |
| Black Pepper (to taste) | Mild bite for finishing | 1 | $0.01 |
| Elbow Macaroni (8 oz) | Classic shape that holds sauce | 840 | $0.90 |
| Butter (1 tbsp) | Optional for extra silkiness | 100 | $0.10 |
| Nonstick Spray | Prevents sticking in pot | 0 | $0.02 |
To finish, mix the warm sauce into drained pasta off the heat. Toss gently to coat each noodle without breaking the sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. This method brings the comfort of bob evans mac and cheese to your home, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.
Cooking and Combining: Steps for the Best Texture
Start by cooking pasta until it’s just right. Follow the package’s directions for al dente. Then, drain it well. To avoid mushiness, cook the pasta a minute less than suggested. This way, it will finish cooking in the warm sauce.
Chop Velveeta into small cubes for even melting. Use low heat and add shredded cheddar with milk slowly. Stir constantly until the sauce is smooth. This method prevents graininess and ensures a creamy texture.
Once the sauce is smooth, mix it with the pasta. Use a spatula to gently fold the sauce over the pasta. Serve immediately for the best creaminess. If you need to wait, keep it warm on low heat or in a warmed dish.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | Classic shape that holds sauce well | 200 per cup | $1.20 per lb |
| Penne | Slightly firmer bite, tubular pockets for sauce | 210 per cup | $1.50 per lb |
| Velveeta | Ultra-smooth melting cheese base | 90 per oz | $3.50 per lb |
| Mild Cheddar | Adds flavor without sharpness | 115 per oz | $4.00 per lb |
| Whole Milk | Creates rich, stable sauce | 150 per cup | $0.90 per quart |
| Low-Fat Milk | Lighter mouthfeel with less richness | 100 per cup | $0.95 per quart |
| Butter | Builds a glossy, silky sauce base | 100 per tbsp | $2.75 per lb |
| Dry Mustard | Enhances cheese flavor without heat | 5 per tsp | $0.10 per tsp |
| Paprika | Offers mild color and warmth | 6 per tsp | $0.08 per tsp |
| Salt & Pepper | Balances and brightens the sauce | 0-2 per pinch | $0.02 per seasoning |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | No | No | Available (gluten-free pasta) | Wheat |
| Penne | No | No | Available (gluten-free pasta) | Wheat |
| Velveeta | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Mild Cheddar | No | Possible (small portions) | Yes | Dairy |
| Whole Milk | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Low-Fat Milk | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Butter | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Plant-Based Cheese | Yes | Some options | Yes | May contain nuts or soy |
| Gluten-Free Pasta | Yes | Some types | Yes | Rice, corn, or legume based |
| Nut Garnish | Yes (if used) | Depends | Yes | Nuts |
Quick tips: salt the water well, melt cheese on low heat, and fold gently. These steps will give you a glossy, comforting cheesy pasta dish. It’s the best mac and cheese recipe for a family friendly meal.
Easy Comfort Food Variations for Family-Friendly Meals
This section offers simple, crowd-pleasing twists to make a classic bob evans mac and cheese base. These ideas are perfect for busy weeknights. They keep flavors mild and textures familiar, so both kids and adults can enjoy the same dish.
Skillet beef and mac mix for a hearty one-pan meal
Brown 1 lb ground beef with a small diced onion. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, ½ can tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook the paste about seven minutes to remove raw taste. Stir in 1 package Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese with 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Mix until the cheeses melt, cover, and simmer ten minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Add-ins to please picky eaters: extra cheese, mild spices, or veggies
Offer build-your-own mix-ins on the side. Mild shredded cheddar and a touch of mozzarella boost creaminess. A spoonful of tomato paste or a dab of ketchup gives a familiar sweet note kids accept.
Finely diced cooked carrots and peas blend into the sauce without changing texture. Keep seasonings gentle: garlic powder and onion powder maintain flavor while staying kid-friendly.
How to adapt portion sizes for family servings and toddler-friendly plates
The copycat recipe yields about ten servings when following the full proportions. Halve the recipe to make roughly five servings for smaller households. Scale pasta and cheese proportionally to keep the same creamy texture.
For toddlers, plate smaller portions on child-sized dishes and check sodium levels. Aim for about four cups of cooked pasta per full recipe as a guideline when adjusting quantities.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skillet Beef Mac | Ground beef, Bob Evans mac, tomato paste, cheddar, mozzarella | 520 per serving | $4.50 per serving |
| Cheesy Veg Blend | Mac with diced carrots and peas plus extra mild cheddar | 390 per serving | $2.20 per serving |
| Toddler Plate | Smaller portion of mac with reduced salt and tiny veggie pieces | 220 per serving | $1.10 per serving |
| Mac & Ketchup Twist | Bob Evans mac with a light swirl of ketchup for a sweet tang | 365 per serving | $1.80 per serving |
| Mild Three-Cheese | Velveeta, mild cheddar, and mozzarella for extra silkiness | 480 per serving | $3.10 per serving |
| One-Pan Family Bake | Baked mac with breadcrumb topping for slight crunch | 450 per serving | $2.90 per serving |
| Protein-Boost Mac | Added shredded rotisserie chicken mixed into the mac | 410 per serving | $3.75 per serving |
| Lightened Mac | Lower-fat cheese and milk swap for a lighter comfort option | 320 per serving | $2.00 per serving |
| Veggie-Focused Mac | Roasted squash and peas folded into the cheese sauce | 360 per serving | $2.60 per serving |
| Party-Sized Pan | Full-recipe bake for gatherings, serves about 10 | 480 per serving | $1.95 per serving |
Shortcuts and Convenience: Using Store-Bought Bob Evans Products
When the week gets busy, a refrigerated tub can save the day. Bob Evans mac and cheese from the grocery refrigerated case offers that mild, creamy base you expect from the brand. Use it when time or convenience matters more than making sauce from scratch.

When to reach for a pre-made option
Choose store-bought mac and cheese for nights with tight schedules. It works well for potlucks, quick family dinners, or when feeding kids after activities. The pre-made product keeps texture consistent and cuts prep time dramatically.
Simple ways to elevate a prepared tub
Turn a shortcut mac and cheese into a fuller meal with a few additions. Stir in cooked ground beef and sautéed onions for a hearty skillet-style plate. Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra pull and richer flavor.
Mix in a teaspoon of tomato paste to bring savory depth without overpowering the mild profile. Finish with chopped fresh parsley for color and a pinch of smoked paprika if you want gentle warmth.
Timing and reheating to keep creaminess
Reheat gently to preserve sauce texture. On the stovetop, warm on low with a splash of milk and stir until smooth. Covering the pan helps trap steam and prevents drying.
In the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir between intervals. Add small amounts of milk as needed to restore creaminess. These steps help retain the feel of homemade mac even from a store-bought tub.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bob Evans Refrigerated Mac | Mild, creamy macaroni in a ready-to-heat tub | 320 per cup | $4.49 |
| Enhanced with Ground Beef | Pre-made mac plus cooked beef and sautéed onions | 480 per cup | $7.25 |
| Three-Cheese Boost | Added cheddar and mozzarella for extra melt | 390 per cup | $5.75 |
| Skillet Tomato Twist | Tomato paste and parsley folded into the tub | 350 per cup | $5.00 |
| Veggie Mix-In | Peas, carrots, and mild spices stirred in | 340 per cup | $5.50 |
| Kid-Friendly Extra Cheese | Double-cheese comfort with mild seasoning | 410 per cup | $5.25 |
| Skillet Family Meal | Large tub combined with beef and veggies for one pan | 460 per cup | $9.99 |
| Quick Microwave Bowl | Simple reheating with a splash of milk | 320 per cup | $4.49 |
| Herb-Finished Serve | Fresh parsley and light seasoning for color | 330 per cup | $5.00 |
| Party-Style Baked Top | Store-bought base finished with breadcrumb topping | 420 per cup | $6.50 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bob Evans Refrigerated Mac | No | No | No (contains wheat) | Dairy, Wheat |
| Enhanced with Ground Beef | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Three-Cheese Boost | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Skillet Tomato Twist | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Veggie Mix-In | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Kid-Friendly Extra Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Skillet Family Meal | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Quick Microwave Bowl | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Herb-Finished Serve | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Party-Style Baked Top | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
- Use bob evans mac and cheese as a base when you need speed without losing taste.
- Boost flavor with simple mix-ins like beef, extra cheese, or a spoon of tomato paste.
- Reheat slowly and add milk to preserve the creamy texture of store-bought mac and cheese.
Nutrition, Serving Sizes, and Calorie Awareness for Comfort Food
Learning about the nutrition in Bob Evans mac and cheese helps you enjoy it smarter. Knowing about calories, sodium, and saturated fat makes it easier to plan meals. This is true for family dinners and brunches.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copycat Bob Evans Mac | Classic creamy mac with Velveeta and mild cheddar | 366 kcal per serving | $4.50 per serving (est.) |
| Reduced-Fat Mac Blend | Blend of mild cheddar and reduced-fat cheese | 300 kcal per serving | $3.80 per serving (est.) |
| Veg-Boost Mac | Smaller pasta portion with added steamed veggies | 320 kcal per serving | $4.00 per serving (est.) |
| Chicken & Mac Plate | Roasted chicken paired with a single serving | 620 kcal per plate | $7.50 per plate (est.) |
| Brunch Mac Bowl | Mac with fruit side and whole-grain toast | 450 kcal per meal | $5.75 per meal (est.) |
| Kid-Friendly Mini | Smaller portion sized for toddlers | 220 kcal per serving | $2.25 per serving (est.) |
| Skillet Beef Mac | Hearty one-pan with ground beef and mac | 540 kcal per serving | $6.00 per serving (est.) |
| Whole-Grain Mac Swap | Pasta swapped for whole-grain elbow | 350 kcal per serving | $4.10 per serving (est.) |
| Dairy-Free Alternative | Plant-based cheese and almond milk | 300 kcal per serving | $5.00 per serving (est.) |
| Single-Serve Refrigerated Tub | Store-bought Bob Evans refrigerated option | 400 kcal per tub | $3.99 per tub |
| Family Bake | Baked casserole for four | 366 kcal per serving | $16.00 total (est.) |
A single serving of the copycat recipe has about 366 kcal. It also has 48 g carbohydrates, 20 g protein, and 10 g fat. There are 6 g saturated fat, 830 mg sodium, 369 mg calcium, 2 g fiber, and 6 g sugar. These numbers help with calorie awareness and meal planning.
Watch out for sodium and saturated fat. Processed cheese and salt increase these. People watching their blood pressure or sodium intake should eat smaller portions. Pair them with low-sodium sides.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copycat Bob Evans Mac | No | No | No (unless GF pasta used) | Dairy |
| Reduced-Fat Mac Blend | No | No | Optional | Dairy |
| Veg-Boost Mac | Optional (use plant cheese) | No | Optional | Dairy or plant-based |
| Chicken & Mac Plate | No | No | Optional | Dairy |
| Brunch Mac Bowl | Optional | No | Optional | Dairy |
| Kid-Friendly Mini | Optional | No | Optional | Dairy |
| Skillet Beef Mac | No | No | Optional | Dairy |
| Whole-Grain Mac Swap | Optional | No | Optional | Dairy, Wheat (if not GF) |
| Dairy-Free Alternative | Yes | No | Optional | Nuts (if nut milk used) |
| Single-Serve Refrigerated Tub | No | No | Check label | Dairy |
| Family Bake | Optional | No | Optional | Dairy |
Simple swaps can keep the flavor while cutting calories and fat. Try reduced-fat cheese or more mild cheddar than Velveeta. Use 2% milk or unsweetened oat milk to lower saturated fat. Add steamed broccoli or peas to increase fiber and volume, so you serve less pasta.
Pairings enhance meals without adding too much. A crisp salad or steamed green beans add texture. Roasted chicken or grilled turkey add protein for a balanced plate. For brunch, offer sliced fruit and whole-grain toast to round out the meal.
Keep calorie awareness active when planning. Use the 366 kcal baseline to scale portions for adults and children. Serve smaller bowls to manage daily totals. Combine mac and cheese with lighter sides to keep the comfort food feel while staying mindful of nutrition.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them for the Best Mac and Cheese
Fixing mac and cheese starts with small changes. These tweaks can fix texture and flavor issues. Follow these steps to improve your dish without losing its creamy goodness.
Grainy sauce often means the cheese got too hot. To fix it, take the pot off the heat and whisk in warm milk slowly. If clumps form, strain the sauce through a fine mesh. Then, reheat it gently over low heat, stirring constantly.
Too salty mac and cheese can be fixed by adding more pasta. Mix in unsalted cream or milk to soften the taste. A peeled potato can also absorb excess salt; just discard it before serving. Adding unsalted cheese or more pasta helps balance the flavors.
For bland mac and cheese, add a pinch of dry mustard or smoked paprika. A little tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the taste. These ingredients add depth without overpowering the dish.
Dried-out or reheated poorly mac and cheese can be saved. Add warm milk or butter and reheat slowly. In the oven, cover it with foil and warm at 300°F with a splash of milk. For the microwave, use short intervals, stir, and add liquid as needed.
Here’s a quick guide to match problems with fixes. Follow these steps for the best results. Mild seasonings are better than strong ones for a family-friendly mac and cheese.
| Issue | Immediate Fix | Why It Works | Time to Recover |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grainy or separated sauce | Remove from heat, whisk in warm milk, strain if needed | Warm milk re-emulsifies fat and proteins; straining removes curds | 2–5 minutes |
| Overly salty | Add cooked pasta, unsalted cream, or simmer with a peeled potato | Extra starch and dairy dilute and absorb excess salt | 5–15 minutes |
| Bland flavor | Small pinch dry mustard or paprika; touch of tomato paste | Concentrates umami and brightens overall taste | 1–3 minutes |
| Dried-out leftovers | Add warm milk or butter; reheat slowly covered | Moisture and fat restore smooth mouthfeel | 5–20 minutes |
| Microwave reheating issues | Heat in short bursts, stir, add small amounts of milk | Prevents hotspots and overheating that cause separation | 2–6 minutes |
| Clumpy shredded cheese | Grate finer or use a blend with Velveeta-style melts | Smaller pieces melt evenly for a smoother sauce | Immediate on remaking |
| Sauce too thin | Simmer gently to reduce or whisk in a small roux | Evaporation or added thickener increases body | 3–10 minutes |
| Sauce too thick | Stir in warm milk a tablespoon at a time | Restores desired saucy consistency without thinning flavor | 1–3 minutes |
| After-bake dryness | Cover with foil and add a splash of milk before warming | Traps steam and rehydrates pasta | 10–20 minutes |
| Too sharp cheese | Blend with mild Velveeta or add cream | Mutes sharp notes and returns milder comfort flavor | 2–5 minutes |
- Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent separation.
- Use warm dairy for adjustments to avoid shocking the sauce.
- When reheating mac and cheese, patience and small additions of liquid preserve texture.
Conclusion
Making bob evans mac and cheese at home is easy and fun. Start with elbow macaroni, Velveeta, and whole milk. This mix gives you the smooth, mild taste everyone loves.
Use gentle heat to melt the cheese slowly. A sprinkle of paprika and dry mustard adds the perfect flavor. This way, both kids and adults will enjoy it.
For quick meals, try the refrigerated Bob Evans mac and cheese. Add some extra shredded cheddar or beef for a tasty twist. Making it yourself lets you control the salt and add-ins, perfect for any meal.
When reheating leftovers, add a bit of milk to keep it creamy. Mix the sauce with slightly undercooked pasta for the best coating. Follow these tips for a comforting, delicious mac and cheese every time.