Best Breads To Pair With Cheesy Macaroni Delight

Kraft Macaroni & Cheese is a convenient and tasty meal for both kids and adults. While it is a simple dish, there are several ways to elevate it. For instance, adding breadcrumbs can add a crunchy texture to the meal. Additionally, using different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, sharp white cheddar, gouda, or fontina, can add depth to the cheese sauce.

Breadcrumb toppings for mac and cheese

Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. While some people prefer the classic creamy and cheesy flavour, others might enjoy adding a crunchy texture to the dish. This is where breadcrumbs come in. Not only do they provide a textural contrast to the creaminess of the mac and cheese, but they also add extra flavour.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice for mac and cheese toppings. They are known for their crisp and flaky texture, which can add a nice crunch to the dish. To make the most of this variety of breadcrumbs, you can mix them with Parmesan cheese, butter, and paprika. This combination will create a golden brown and crispy topping that complements the creaminess of the mac and cheese.

Herby Breadcrumbs

For a more flavourful twist, you can add herbs to your breadcrumbs. Freshly chopped parsley and chives, along with garlic powder, can take your mac and cheese to the next level. Simply mix these ingredients with melted butter and Panko breadcrumbs, and sprinkle them over the macaroni before baking.

Seasoned Breadcrumbs

If you're looking to add some extra spice to your mac and cheese, you can season your breadcrumbs with cayenne pepper, black pepper, or red pepper flakes. You can also try adding some Parmesan cheese to the seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy kick.

Tips for Preparing Breadcrumbs

When preparing breadcrumbs for mac and cheese, it's important to use fresh breadcrumbs rather than dried ones. Fresh breadcrumbs will give a better texture and flavour to the dish. Additionally, if you want your breadcrumbs to brown nicely, you can mix them with a little olive oil before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese.

Customising Your Mac and Cheese

The beauty of mac and cheese is that it can be customised to your taste. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack, and add spices or herbs to suit your preference. Remember, the key to a great mac and cheese is finding the right balance between creaminess and crunch!

How to make Kraft mac and cheese

Kraft Mac and Cheese is a quick and easy dish that only takes a few minutes to prepare. It's smooth, creamy, and delicious all on its own, but you can also add ingredients like bacon, ginger, cherry tomatoes, or chilli beans to make it even better. Here's how to make the classic recipe according to the instructions on the box, as well as some tips and tricks to make it your own.

Ingredients:

You will need:

• 1 box of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
• 6 cups (1.4 L) of water
• 1/4 cup (55 g) of margarine or butter
• 1/4 cup (59 mL) of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions:

• Boil 6 cups (1.4 L) of water in a pot on the stove.
• Add the macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Drain the water with a colander and return the noodles to the pot (do not rinse).
• Add 1/4 cup (55 g) of margarine or butter and 1/4 cup (59 mL) of milk.
• Stir in the contents of the cheese sauce packet until smooth.
• Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Tips and Tricks:

• To make the dish creamier, replace some of the margarine with American cheese. Add 3 slices of American cheese to the saucepan with the macaroni, margarine, butter, and milk.
• For a spicy and smoky dish, mix in bacon and chipotle. Fry 4 slices of bacon while the macaroni is cooking, then slice into small pieces and stir into the mac and cheese along with 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle in adobo.
• For a more decadent dish, add sriracha, ginger, green onions, and panko. Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of sriracha hot sauce, 1/4 cup of green onions, and 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs.
• To make a Margarita-themed dish, add cherry tomatoes and basil. Stir in 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1/4 cup of fresh, chopped basil.
• For a hearty meal, add chilli beans and cheddar cheese. Heat up a can of chilli beans and pour over the mac and cheese, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• You can also add your favourite powdered seasonings to jazz it up, such as cayenne pepper or curry powder.

Bread Suggestions:

Now, what kind of bread goes well with Kraft Mac and Cheese? Here are some ideas:

• Garlic bread: The classic option to pair with any pasta dish, garlic bread adds a crunchy and buttery dimension to your meal.
• Cheesy bread: Take it up a notch by sprinkling some shredded cheese on top of your garlic bread before baking it. This will create a gooey, cheesy layer that complements the mac and cheese perfectly.
• Breadsticks: Thin and crispy breadsticks can be a great side to dip into your mac and cheese. You can even find breadsticks with a variety of seasonings, such as garlic, parmesan, or Italian herbs.
• Dinner rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a nice option to soak up the creamy sauce. Try buttering and toasting them for an extra touch of flavour.

Other cheese powders

While the original question was about bread, you've asked for information about other cheese powders.

There are many different types of cheese powders available, including cheddar, parmesan, Romano, asiago, provolone, and cream cheese. You can find these products online and in some grocery stores.

• Hoosier Hill Farm Cheddar Cheese Powder: This product is well-reviewed for its flavour and comes in a large 2.5-pound container. It has about 35 calories per serving and can be used in cooking or as a topping for snacks like popcorn, pretzels, or baked potatoes.
• McCormick White Cheddar Mac & Cheese Seasoning Mix: This is a white cheddar powder with no artificial ingredients. It comes in an 8-ounce container and can be used as a seasoning for various dishes, not just mac and cheese.
• Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese Shaker: A classic, affordable option for sprinkling on pizza, pasta, and other dishes.
• King Arthur, Better Cheddar Cheese Powder: Another well-reviewed option for cheddar cheese powder.
• Judee's Powdered Cream Cheese: A gluten-free and keto-friendly option made from real cream cheese.
• Judee's Vegan Cheddar Flavor Powder: A vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and nut-free option with good reviews.

These cheese powders can be used in a variety of ways, including as a seasoning for popcorn, potatoes, soups, salads, or other snacks. They can also be mixed with butter or milk to create a cheese sauce for pasta, casseroles, or vegetables.

When shopping for cheese powders, pay attention to the ingredients and nutrition information. Some options may be highly processed or high in sodium.

Breads to serve with mac and cheese

Mac and cheese is a hearty, comforting dish that is loved by both kids and adults. While it can be enjoyed on its own, there are also many side dishes that can complement it. Here are some bread options to serve with mac and cheese:

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that goes well with many meals, including mac and cheese. The garlicky, buttery flavours of the bread can add a punch to the creamy, cheesy macaroni. You can make your own garlic bread by spreading a mixture of butter, garlic, and parsley on a baguette or Italian loaf and baking it until toasted.

Olive Oil Garlic Bread

For a more sophisticated take on garlic bread, try using olive oil instead of butter. This can give the bread a more subtle flavour that won't overpower the mac and cheese. Simply mix olive oil with garlic and spread it on your bread of choice before baking.

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

If you're looking for a bread option that incorporates more cheese, cheddar bay biscuits are a great choice. These flaky, savoury biscuits are made with sharp cheddar cheese, butter, and herbs. They can be a delicious complement to the mac and cheese, adding a different texture and flavour profile.

Cornbread

Cornbread is another type of quick bread that can go well with mac and cheese. It has a sweet and savoury flavour, with a crumbly texture. You can make it in a cast-iron skillet for a crisp, golden crust. Cornbread also goes well with chilli, so it can be a good choice if you're serving mac and cheese with a spicy dish.

Dinner Rolls

Dinner rolls are a versatile option that can be served with various meals, including mac and cheese. They are typically soft and fluffy, making them a good choice for soaking up the cheesy sauce. You can find pre-made dinner rolls at most grocery stores, or you can make your own for a fresher option.

Breadsticks

Breadsticks are a fun and crispy alternative to traditional bread. They can be twisted or braided and are often seasoned with garlic, butter, or other herbs. Breadsticks are a good option if you want something with a lighter texture that can be easily dipped into the mac and cheese sauce.

How to make mac and cheese from scratch

Ingredients

• Macaroni
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Cheese (high-quality medium to sharp cheddar)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Onion powder
• Hot sauce
• Salt

Method

• Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Be sure to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water.
• Drain the macaroni when it is cooked but do not rinse it.
• Make the cheese sauce. Melt the butter (do not let it brown) and whisk in the dry ingredients (flour, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder) until the mixture is smooth.
• Cook the roux for about 60 seconds, then add the milk and whisk the mixture well.
• Add the sour cream or Greek yogurt and whisk again. The mixture will be fairly runny at this point.
• Cook over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the sauce starts to thicken. Do not let the mixture boil.
• Once the sauce has thickened, turn the heat to low and add the cheese. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Add the cooked macaroni to the pot and stir to combine.
• Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken, then serve warm.

Tips

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and all-purpose gluten-free flour.
• To make the dish creamier, use milk with a higher fat content, such as whole milk, half-and-half, or cream.
• Pre-shredded cheese is coated in starch and doesn't melt as smoothly, so it's best to buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself.
• To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You may need to add a little milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Variations and Add-ins

• Baked Mac and Cheese: Transfer the mac and cheese to a casserole dish, top with more shredded cheese, and bake at 350ºF for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
• Proteins: Add cooked chicken, bacon, sausage, tuna, or ham.
• Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, peas, carrots, or pickled jalapeños.
• Sauces and Condiments: Kimchi, pesto, sriracha, salsa, or buffalo sauce.
• For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs and place under the broiler until browned.

Frequently asked questions