Ingredients
Scale
Breadcrumb Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Mac and Cheese
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- 1 box (7.25 oz) Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese spread or Boursin cheese
- ¼ cup shredded gruyere
- ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk, plus more if needed
- ½ cup cooked and shredded chicken or diced beef (optional for added protein)
Instructions
Making the Breadcrumb Topping
- Melt the butter in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Stir in the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook while stirring frequently until the breadcrumbs become golden brown and crispy, about five minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside to use as a topping later.
Preparing the Mac and Cheese
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- Cook the macaroni according to the instructions on the box in a medium-sized saucepan. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Return the empty saucepan to the stove over low heat. Add the cream cheese, gruyere, sharp cheddar, the cheese packet from the box, and milk.
- Stir continuously until all the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce appears too thick, add additional milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and stir until fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- If adding protein, mix in the shredded chicken or diced beef at this stage. Stir well to incorporate everything evenly.
- Serve immediately by scooping into bowls and topping each serving with the prepared breadcrumb mixture.
Notes
- Achieving the Right Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, adding small amounts of milk gradually can help loosen it without making it watery. If it is too thin, letting it sit for a couple of minutes off the heat will help it thicken naturally.
- Preventing Clumpy Cheese: When adding shredded cheese, ensure the saucepan is on low heat. High heat can cause the cheese to seize and become grainy instead of melting smoothly.
- Enhancing the Flavor: While this recipe already adds more depth than traditional boxed mac and cheese, experimenting with seasonings can take it even further. A pinch of ground mustard, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of black pepper can enhance the taste.
- Using Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. For the best texture, shred the cheese from a block before adding it to the sauce.
- Crisping the Breadcrumbs Properly: Cooking the panko topping until golden brown before adding it to the mac and cheese ensures that it remains crunchy instead of absorbing moisture from the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes