20 Ways to Upgrade Your Mac and Cheese
Learn delicious ways to elevate your mac and cheese with these cheese twists and flavor upgrades.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
If you’re like everyone who could eat mac and cheese any day of the week, you know it sometimes needs a little something extra to make it even more enjoyable. Delicious upgrades can make your mac and cheese unforgettable. You may add a crispy breadcrumb topping or unexpected ingredients like truffle oil or bacon. These ideas will help you make your favorite comfort food feel new and indulgent again.
1. Add Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
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Add a layer of buttery breadcrumbs on top of your mac and cheese to give it a satisfying crunch that you want to munch in your mouth. Sprinkle, bake, and enjoy that golden, crispy texture.
2. Sprinkle Parmesan for Extra Flavor
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Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory, nutty boost that enhances the creamy sauce. It’s an easy way to deepen the flavor of your classic mac and cheese.
3. Add Garlic for a Boost of Flavor
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Sauté minced garlic in butter and mix it into the sauce for a garlicky flavor. This simple twist makes each bite more delicious.
4. Drizzle Truffle Oil for Gourmet Flair
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A few drops of truffle oil can give your mac and cheese a fancy, restaurant-worthy taste. It’s perfect if you love the earthy and rich flavor it provides.
5. Add Crispy Bacon Bits
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Crispy bacon bits have a smoky, salty crunch that pairs perfectly with creamy cheese. It’s a classic upgrade everyone will love.
6. Mix in Jalapeño for a Spicy Kick
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Add fresh or pickled jalapeños to your mac and cheese if you like a little kick of heat. They’ll bring a spicy edge that balances the richness.
7. Make it Fancy with Lobster
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Adding lobster takes mac and cheese to a whole new level. It brings a sweet, tender seafood flavor that complements the creamy sauce. It’s a luxurious twist for special occasions.
8. Fried Onions for Crunch
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The crispy onions are an upgrade that adds a savory crunch to contrast the creamy cheese sauce. They’re the perfect addition if you’re craving a bit of texture and extra flavor in every bite.
9. Sneak In Some Spinach
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Fresh spinach brings color and nutrients without overpowering the dish. It’s a great way to make your mac and cheese feel healthier.
10. A Dash of Nutmeg
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A tiny pinch of nutmeg enhances the cheese sauce in your mac and cheese. It’s an unexpected touch that adds a hint of spice. The cozy flavor of this upgrade makes you feel comfortable.
11. Fresh Tomatoes for Juiciness
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With these fresh tomatoes as a topping, your mac and cheese will have a new pop of red color. They have a fresh burst of flavor and a bit of acidity to balance out the richness.
12. Experiment with Different Cheeses
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Mix your regular mac and cheese with cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, and Gruyere to create a complex flavor profile. It’s a fun way to make your mac and cheese feel unique and special.
13. Fresh Herbs for Aroma
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Garnish your planned mac and cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh, fragrant finish. They add a hint of brightness that livens up each bite.
14. Add Broccoli for a Nutritious Twist
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Adding broccoli to your mac and cheese brings vibrant color and healthy benefits like fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. It’s a tasty way to make comfort food enjoyable in its creamy goodness.
15. Use Chili Powder for Heat
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A sprinkle of chili powder adds warmth and a little spice challenge to your mac and cheese. It’s perfect for those who like a bit of kick.
16. Add Mustard for Tang
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A little pump of mustard adds a sharp, tangy flavor that helps balance the creamy cheese sauce of your mac and cheese. It’s an easy way to give a flavorful kick without overpowering it.
17. Pulled Pork for Hearty Flavor
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Adding pulled pork gives your mac and cheese a smoky, savory flavor, which makes it more satisfying to look at and indulge in. The tender pork is the best choice for a hearty, comfort-filled meal that’s sure to please.
18. Stir in Sour Cream for Extra Creaminess
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Sour cream combines with the creaminess of your mac and cheese, which complements your palate. It’s an easy and smooth combination, giving every bite a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
19. Mix In Mushrooms for Umami
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Adding sauteed mushrooms to your mac and cheese introduces a rich, earthy flavor that enhances the dish. Mushrooms are naturally high in umami, which balances the creaminess of the cheese and adds a savory, meaty texture without being too heavy. It’s a great way to elevate your mac and cheese with a gourmet twist.
20. Add Buffalo Sauce for a Spicy Kick
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The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates a bold, satisfying dish. Everyone who finds comfort in spicy food will surely love to recreate their mac and cheese with this upgrade.