Description

This Juicy Pink Mac and Cheese is a playful twist on the classic comfort food mac and cheese, featuring a vibrant pink color achieved naturally with beet juice or other natural red colorings. Perfect for making mealtime fun for kids or themed parties, it’s easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients. The dish maintains all the cozy, cheesy goodness you love while adding a colorful surprise that delights at any table.

Ingredients

Scale

Mac and Cheese Base

1 prepared dairy-free mac and cheese (e.g., Daiya’s boxed mac and cheese)

Coloring and Flavoring

1/4 cup beet juice (preferably from plain canned beets) or 2-4 drops natural red food coloring

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Cook your preferred pasta according to the package instructions until al dente for the best texture. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Blend the Sauce Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, blend your pre-prepared veggies or cheese sauce base. Gradually add beet juice to the mixture, starting with a small amount, until you achieve the desired vibrant pink color. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Sauce and Pasta: Transfer the blended pink sauce to a large pot over low heat. Add the drained pasta and stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Continue warming the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through without boiling to preserve color and sauce consistency.
Serve and Enjoy: Once fully combined and heated, serve the pink mac and cheese hot. Enjoy the fun twist and delicious flavors that brighten up any meal.

Notes

Use beet juice from plain canned beets to avoid unwanted flavors; avoid pickled or seasoned beet varieties.
Start with small amounts of beet juice or natural colorants to prevent overly watery sauce and achieve the perfect pink hue.
Add beet juice after removing from high heat to maintain the vibrant color and prevent sauce separation.
When reheating leftovers, add a splash of plant-based milk or water and stir frequently to keep the sauce creamy.
Avoid microwaving on high power to prevent grainy texture or sauce separation.
Serve with steamed green vegetables or crunchy veggie sticks for color contrast and balance.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days; color may deepen but flavor remains unaffected.

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: pink mac and cheese, dairy-free mac and cheese, beet juice, kid-friendly recipe, colorful comfort food, easy weeknight dinner