6 Simple Ways To Elevate Your Boxed Mac & Cheese
Let’s be honest: we don’t always have the time to prepare an elaborate meal. Busy schedules, tight budgets, and the dread of doing dishes can often lead us to opt for convenient alternatives that save us time and effort.
Pre-packaged meals are a convenient choice, but they can sometimes lack excitement—especially boxed mac and cheese. Known for its association with college dorm living and catering to picky eaters, boxed mac and cheese is affordable, easy to prepare, and generally pleasing to the taste buds, albeit a bit on the dull side.
But why not think beyond the conventional? Our team of culinary experts enjoys turning prepackaged ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Just like how Pillsbury Crescent Rolls can be transformed into a culinary delight, boxed mac and cheese can also be elevated with a few simple additions to create a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes.
Here are six creative ways to upgrade your mac and cheese and make even the most basic box feel elegant:
1. Cajun-Inspired: Boost the protein content of your mac and cheese by adding smoky and savory Andouille sausage, which is already cooked. Enhance the Louisiana-inspired flavor by sprinkling Cajun seasoning over your dish.
2. Sour Cream & Onion: Indulge in extra creaminess by topping your mac and cheese with a dollop of sour cream and a generous sprinkle of chives, reminiscent of the beloved sour cream and onion potato chip flavor.
3. Jalapeño Popper: Incorporate the beloved flavors of jalapeño poppers into your mac and cheese by mixing in cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, and extra cheddar cheese for a spicy and smoky twist.
4. Italian-Inspired: Give your mac and cheese an Italian flair by adding crumbled Italian sausage, store-bought marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a cozy and savory twist.
5. Bee Sting: Inspired by the popular Bee Sting pizza, enhance your mac and cheese with pepperoni and hot honey. For added texture, top it off with toasted breadcrumbs for a flavorful experience.
6. Dirty Martini: Drawing inspiration from the classic cocktail, infuse your mac and cheese with the savory and briny flavors of Castelvetrano olives and blue cheese, creating a unique and sophisticated pairing.
These creative upgrades will take your boxed mac and cheese to the next level, adding excitement and flavor to your meal.
