"Kids love this slightly spicy mac and cheese," Rathman says. "It's simple to prepare, and takes only 20 to 25 minutes from start to finish. We serve it with a salad and French bread to round out the meal."

Salsa Mac 'n' Cheese

1 pound ground beef

1 1/2 cups salsa

1 1/2 cups water

1 8-ounce package rotini pasta, uncooked

8 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1-inch cubes

Brown and drain the ground beef. Add the salsa and water to the hamburger and bring to a boil. Add the rotini, reduce heat, cover and simmer 8 to 10 minutes. Add the Velveeta and stir until melted.

Rachel Rathman,
Grand Island