The Beginning of Dinner

You know I hate to spend money unnecessarily! Here's the recipe I use to make my own taco seasoning.

6 tsp chili powder 4 1/2 tsp cumin

5 tsp paprika 3 tsp onion powder

2 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp cayenne powder

Mix all together and store in an airtight container. I recommend adding 2 Tbls of the seasoning and 2/3 cup water to each pound of hamburger. I buy my spices at Cash and Carry in bulk so they are pretty cheap. Good Luck!

Final result

Let me just say that the flavored crouton crumbs made this dish!

Ingredients for Moms Mac and Cheese

Here are the ingredients for Mom's Mac & Cheese

1-1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or whatever you have on hand)

4 Tbls margarine

3 Tbls flour

1-1/2 cups milk

1 cup (4 oz) cheese

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

2 Tbls bread crumbs (use leftover crumbs from croutons)

Cook macaroni as package directs; drain. Place in a greased baking dish; set aside. In saucepan melt margarine over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk; bring to boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes; reduce heat. Stir in cheese, salt and pepper until cheese is melted. Pour over macaroni; mix well. Spread bread crumbs over casserole. Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Yield: 6 servings

From crumbs to croutons! This goes along with my recipe to make these great croutons. They're so easy and so cheap. Yay! My favorite word, right up there with FREE! Try these croutons. You'll be hooked.