Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Kraft Baked Mac N Cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. It's a classic for a reason, offering that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a satisfyingly crisp top. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game to the next level! This recipe takes the convenience of boxed mac and cheese and transforms it into a truly unforgettable baked dish. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (7.25 ounces) Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is ideal)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small to medium-sized baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches or similar). This will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Prepare the Mac & Cheese:
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Prepare the Kraft Macaroni & Cheese according to the package directions, but only use ¾ of the milk called for on the box. We'll add extra liquid later to ensure a perfectly creamy texture.
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Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the melted butter and the lightly beaten egg. This creates a richer, smoother sauce. This step is important for achieving that perfect creamy mac and cheese texture.
Enhance the Flavor:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The sharpness of the cheddar complements the Kraft cheese sauce beautifully. If you want to add other cheeses, go for it! Experiment with different flavor profiles.
Bake to Perfection:
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Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking time to prevent burning. The bubbly, golden-brown topping is the sign of perfectly baked mac and cheese.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to portion and serve. Enjoy this delicious dish as a healthy meal or a quick dinner idea, perfect for a comforting night in.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese:
- Use fresh bread crumbs: Fresh bread crumbs will give you a crispier topping than store-bought.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry mac and cheese. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked vegetables, such as broccoli or peas, to make it a more complete and healthy meal.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a kick.
Delicious Variations:
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Stir in shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy, game-day favorite.
- Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 350-400 (will vary based on ingredients and serving size)
Note: This is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
This Kraft Baked Mac N Cheese is a simple homemade cooking recipe that results in a truly delicious dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a great example of how easy recipes can be elevated with just a few extra steps and ingredients. Try it today and let us know what you think!