Description
This creamy and flavorful upgrade to Kraft Mac and Cheese enhances the classic with rich cheeses, heavy cream, and bold seasonings. It’s an easy yet indulgent twist that delivers a velvety, restaurant-quality mac and cheese in just minutes!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
Flavor Enhancers
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- ¼ cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (adds tang and richness)
- ¼ cup crumbled bacon (for a smoky crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for freshness)
- ½ cup toasted breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping if baking)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta to Perfection
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil, then add the macaroni from the Kraft Mac and Cheese box.
- Cook for one minute less than the package suggests to keep the pasta firm.
- Drain well, but do not rinse—this helps the cheese sauce cling better.
2. Prepare the Ultimate Cheese Sauce
- In the same pot, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and smoked paprika to build depth of flavor.
- Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add the cheese packet from the box, followed by shredded cheddar cheese and optional cream cheese or sour cream.
- Stir until the sauce is smooth, thick, and creamy.
3. Coat the Pasta in the Sauce
- Return the drained pasta to the pot and gently fold it into the cheese sauce.
- Stir thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of warm milk to adjust the consistency.
4. Add the Perfect Finishing Touches (Optional)
- For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs and crumbled bacon.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- Want extra cheesiness? Swap in gouda, Monterey Jack, or white cheddar for a unique twist.
- For spice lovers, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a bold kick.
- Make it heartier by mixing in shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled sausage.
- For a kid-friendly version, top with Goldfish crackers for a fun, crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop (Optional: Baked)
- Cuisine: American