Patrick Oconnell
Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is a convenient and tasty meal, but there are several ways to enhance it and make it even better. Firstly, it is recommended to undercook the pasta by a minute or two to prevent it from becoming mushy. Secondly, adding salt to the pasta water can season the macaroni itself. For a creamier sauce, butter and milk can be added, and for extra cheesiness, American cheese or cream cheese can be melted into the sauce. For those who like spicy food, a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can be added, and for a more subtle flavour boost, garlic powder and onion powder can be included. Finally, extra ingredients such as crispy prosciutto, bacon, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes can be tossed in for a unique twist.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Undercook the noodles by | 1-2 minutes |
| Salt the water | 1 spoonful of kosher or table salt |
| Add milk to the cooking water | 1/2 cup |
| Add butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Add American cheese | 2-3 slices |
| Add cheese powder | 1 packet |
| Add garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Add onion powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Add cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Add paprika | As required |
| Add heavy cream or half-and-half | As required |
| Toppings | Bacon, peas, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, scallions, crispy prosciutto, pickled jalapeños, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Add spices and seasonings
Adding spices and seasonings to Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is a simple and effective way to enhance its flavour. Basic spices that you may already have in your pantry include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you're looking to experiment with more spices, you can try red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, chilli powder, cumin, curry powder, dry mustard, or regular paprika.
For a Korean-inspired twist, you can sauté kimchi to cut down on its acidity and mix it into your macaroni, along with crispy bacon bits, and chopped scallions. You can also add pickled jalapeños, coarsely chopped, for a spicy kick. If you're looking for a more indulgent option, try adding crispy prosciutto or fried spam to your macaroni and cheese.
For a more well-rounded meal, you can incorporate vegetables such as peas, broccoli, spinach, or kale. You can also add protein sources like chicken, tuna, black beans, or ground beef. To elevate the dish even further, try topping it with toasted breadcrumbs, grated sharp cheddar cheese, or a combination of both.
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Use extra cheese
Adding extra cheese is a great way to enhance the flavour of Kraft macaroni and cheese. While the boxed variety is convenient and tasty, adding extra cheese can elevate the dish and make it taste more like homemade macaroni and cheese.
There are several types of cheese that can be added to Kraft macaroni and cheese to enhance its flavour. Cream cheese, for example, can be used to replace butter, creating a tangy flavour that breaks up the richness of the dish. It is recommended to use two ounces of plain cream cheese from a tub, or a block of cream cheese that has been softened to room temperature to speed up melting. Boursin Garlic & Herb can also be used as a delicious substitute.
Cheddar cheese is another popular addition, with some recipes calling for shredded cheddar, while others suggest adding slices or a handful of cheddar to be stirred into the sauce. For those who prefer a smoother, creamier texture, it is recommended to add grated or shredded cheese. Gouda can also be added in place of cheddar for an extra depth of flavour.
Gruyere cheese is another option that pairs well with cheddar, and can be swapped for gouda if preferred. It is recommended to sprinkle gruyere on top of the macaroni and cheese and place it under the broiler to create a bubbly, browned crust.
In addition to these cheeses, some people also add American cheese to their Kraft macaroni and cheese. This can be done by melting butter in a pan, adding half and half or milk, and then stirring in the American cheese until melted. This creates an extra cheesy dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
When adding extra cheese to Kraft macaroni and cheese, it is important to consider the desired texture and flavour profile. For a creamier dish, adding milk, cream, or half-and-half can help achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika can be added to further enhance the flavour.
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Undercook the pasta
One of the easiest ways to elevate boxed Kraft macaroni and cheese is to undercook the pasta. This is because boxed macaroni is often overcooked and limp, with little flavour. Undercooking the pasta by a minute or two will ensure that it doesn't become mushy and retains a slight bite. Start tasting the pasta after 5 minutes of cooking and drain it as soon as it's al dente—just a little short of soft. It will continue to cook a little once it's drained.
To undercook the pasta, simply follow the cooking instructions on the box but reduce the cooking time by a minute or two. You can also set a timer for 2 minutes less than the recommended cooking time. Additionally, you can taste the pasta as it cooks to achieve your desired texture. Remember not to rinse the cooked pasta unless the recipe specifically calls for it, such as in some cold pasta salads.
Undercooking the pasta is a simple yet effective way to improve the texture and flavour of your Kraft macaroni and cheese. It's a small change that can make a big difference in the final dish. By avoiding overcooked pasta, you'll end up with a more enjoyable and flavourful macaroni and cheese experience.
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Add butter
Adding butter is a great way to enhance the flavour of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. The general method is to melt butter in a pan, then add the powdered cheese and milk, stirring until a sauce forms.
One method is to melt butter in a non-stick pan, then stir in panko, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Cook this mixture until the panko is golden brown and crispy, then set aside. Cook the macaroni according to the box directions, then drain and set aside. To the same saucepan, add cream cheese, gruyere, cheddar, cheese packet, and milk, stirring until the cheese has melted. Stir in the cooked macaroni, scoop into bowls, and top with the breadcrumb topping.
Another method is to brown the butter first, which adds richness and depth of flavour. To do this, heat the butter in a stainless steel skillet until it is a rich caramel colour. Then, follow the instructions on the box, adding the browned butter to the cheese sauce.
Butter can also be used as a topping. One recipe suggests sprinkling crushed potato chips with melted butter stirred in as a topping, along with some garlic powder. Another recipe suggests mixing melted butter with cracker crumbs and sprinkling this over the macaroni and cheese before baking it in the oven.
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Include vegetables
Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is a convenient and tasty meal, but adding vegetables can make it even better! Here are some tips to enhance your boxed mac and cheese with vegetables:
Peas, Broccoli, and Spinach
Classic vegetable additions to mac and cheese include peas, broccoli, and spinach. These vegetables add colour, texture, and a boost of nutrients to your dish. You can use fresh or frozen varieties, and they will easily cook or heat up in the warm cheese sauce.
Kale
Kale is another leafy green that can be added to your mac and cheese. It has a slightly heartier texture than spinach and can hold up well to the rich sauce. You can tear or chop the kale into bite-sized pieces and stir it into your prepared macaroni.
Mushrooms
Sliced or chopped mushrooms can be sautéed in butter with fresh thyme until they are golden brown. Then, simply mix them into your prepared mac and cheese. This addition gives a savoury, earthy flavour to your dish.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a versatile addition and can be diced and sautéed with garlic, or used sun-dried or semi-dried for a more intense flavour. They add a burst of colour and freshness to your mac and cheese.
Other Tips
When adding vegetables to your Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, consider the following:
- Season your vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using frozen vegetables, there is no need to cook them separately. Simply add them to your prepared mac and cheese, and they will heat through in the warm sauce.
- If you want a crisp topping, cook your mac and cheese in the oven for a few minutes after adding the vegetables.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of vegetables to find your favourite flavour profile!
By adding vegetables, you can enhance the flavour, texture, and nutritional value of your Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. Enjoy your upgraded comfort food!
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Frequently asked questions
To make Kraft Mac and Cheese creamier, add butter, milk, or half-and-half.
To make Kraft Mac and Cheese cheesier, add extra cheese. Try American cheese, cream cheese, gouda, cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, fontina, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère.
You can spice up Kraft Mac and Cheese by adding garlic, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. You can also add pickled jalapeños, crispy prosciutto, or bacon.
To make Kraft Mac and Cheese less mushy, cook the pasta for less time than the instructions say. Start tasting the pasta after 5 minutes and drain it as soon as it’s al dente.
