Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether it’s a quick meal from a box or a decadent, homemade version, knowing what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better can elevate this classic dish. By adding extra cheese, proteins, vegetables, or even gourmet ingredients, you can take mac and cheese from basic to extraordinary.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better, helping you discover new ingredients, spices, and techniques to enhance the flavors. Whether you’re making it from scratch or sprucing up a boxed version, there’s always a way to make macaroni and cheese taste better.
Why You Should Elevate Your Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese can sometimes get a bad reputation for being too simple or one-dimensional. But with the right add-ins and techniques, you can make a dish that’s complex, rich, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re aiming to make your meal more nutritious or just more indulgent, elevating your mac and cheese allows for endless creativity.
By incorporating fresh ingredients like herbs, vegetables, spices, and proteins, you’re not just adding flavor—you’re also boosting the nutritional value. And if you’re making mac and cheese for a crowd, an upgraded version is guaranteed to impress your guests. Who can resist a creamy, cheesy dish packed with bold flavors and a crunchy topping?
So whether you want to add depth with extra cheese, balance richness with vegetables, or experiment with new sauces, there’s always something you can do to make macaroni and cheese better.
1. What Cheeses to Add to Macaroni and Cheese to Make It Taste Better
Wondering what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better? One of the easiest answers is to simply add more cheese. You can mix different types of cheese for a richer and more complex flavor. Options like sharp cheddar, gouda, or Gruyère are perfect choices to boost the flavor of your mac and cheese.
Here are some of the best cheeses to consider:
- Sharp or aged Cheddar: A staple in most mac and cheese recipes, cheddar offers a bold, rich flavor. Opt for sharp or aged cheddar for a deeper, more pronounced taste.
- Gouda: This cheese melts beautifully and has a slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce.
- Gruyère: Known for its nutty, savory flavor, Gruyère adds a depth of taste that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Mozzarella: If you’re looking for a stretchy, gooey cheese pull, mozzarella is your best bet. It melts beautifully and adds a soft, creamy texture.
- Parmesan: Parmesan adds a salty, tangy finish that cuts through the richness of the dish. It’s best used as a garnish or mixed into the cheese sauce.
By blending different types of cheese, you create a multi-dimensional flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with blue cheese, brie, or even a smoked variety to add a gourmet touch.
Cheese Ratios
When adding extra cheese, aim for a 3:1 ratio of cheese to pasta. This ensures that your mac and cheese stays creamy without being overly dry. And always remember to grate your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce, making it less creamy.
2. Creamy Ingredients to Make Macaroni and Cheese Taste Better
If you’re still figuring out what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better, try creamy enhancers like heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese. These options add a rich, velvety texture that complements the cheese sauce and makes the dish creamier and more indulgent.
Here are some of the best creamy enhancers to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better:
- Heavy cream: Heavy cream is thicker and richer than milk, which helps to create a more indulgent texture. Replace part or all of the milk in your recipe with heavy cream for an ultra-creamy finish.
- Sour cream: Adding a dollop of sour cream to your cheese sauce gives the dish a slight tang and helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
- Cream cheese: If you’re looking for a velvety texture, cream cheese is a must. It melts into the sauce, adding a subtle sweetness and a luscious mouthfeel.
- Mascarpone: This Italian cheese is slightly sweet and incredibly creamy, making it the perfect addition to any mac and cheese recipe.
- Evaporated milk: Unlike regular milk, evaporated milk has less water, which helps create a thicker, creamier sauce without the extra fat of cream.
When you’re adding any of these creamy ingredients, be careful not to overdo it. Too much cream can result in a greasy sauce, while too little can make the dish dry. A good rule of thumb is to add your dairy in stages, tasting as you go to get the perfect balance of creaminess.
For even more ideas on how to make your mac and cheese creamier, check out this guide to elevate your mac and cheese.
3. Herbs and Spices to Add to Macaroni and Cheese for Better Flavor
When thinking about what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better, don’t forget herbs and spices. Simple additions like garlic powder, mustard powder, or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor and complexity of your mac and cheese.
Common Spices to Enhance Flavor
Here are some of the most popular spices to consider:
- Paprika: Both smoked and regular paprika add a rich, earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese. Smoked paprika, in particular, gives the dish a subtle smoky taste that deepens the overall flavor.
- Garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth to your mac and cheese without overpowering the flavor of the cheese. It’s a simple but effective addition that gives the dish a fuller taste.
- Onion powder: Like garlic powder, onion powder enhances the overall flavor of the dish by adding a mild, sweet onion taste. It works well with the cheese, adding another layer of richness.
- Mustard powder: Mustard powder is a secret weapon in many mac and cheese recipes. It adds a tangy, slightly sharp flavor that makes the cheese taste even cheesier and more vibrant.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg is often used in béchamel sauces to enhance the richness of the dish. A pinch of nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your mac and cheese, providing a more nuanced flavor profile.
Adding Heat for a Spicy Kick
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can also experiment with these options:
- Cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick of spice that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
- Red pepper flakes: Perfect for those who want a bolder, spicier flavor. Sprinkle them in sparingly for a balanced level of heat.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños can be chopped and mixed into the dish for a spicy, tangy contrast that elevates the flavor and texture.
Fresh and Dried Herbs
If you’re feeling more adventurous, try experimenting with herbs:
- Thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a clean, bright flavor that helps cut through the richness of the dish.
- Dill: Adds a unique, slightly tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese. Dried dill has a more concentrated flavor, while fresh dill brings brightness.
Fresh herbs tend to add brightness and color to the dish, while dried herbs provide a more concentrated, intense flavor. These additions will make your mac and cheese stand out from the crowd and ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
For more ideas on spice combinations, check out this list of the best additions to mac and cheese.
4. What Proteins to Add to Macaroni and Cheese to Make It a Complete Meal
If you’re looking for what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better, protein is an excellent choice. Adding proteins like bacon, shredded chicken, or even lobster can transform your dish into a complete and satisfying meal. Proteins also help balance the richness of the cheese sauce.
Popular Meat Protein Additions
Here are some of the most popular meat-based protein additions:
- Bacon or pancetta: Bacon is a classic addition to mac and cheese, and for good reason. Its salty, crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce. Pancetta, an Italian cured pork, offers a similar flavor but with a slightly more delicate texture.
- Shredded chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is an easy way to bulk up your mac and cheese. It’s lean, tender, and absorbs the flavors of the cheese sauce without overpowering it. This is a perfect addition for those who want a lean protein option.
- Ground beef or sausage: If you’re craving a heartier meal, adding ground beef or sausage can transform your mac and cheese into a complete dinner. Brown the meat before adding it to the cheese sauce to give it a savory, caramelized flavor that blends perfectly with the creaminess of the dish.
- Lobster or crab: For a gourmet twist, try adding chunks of lobster or crab meat to your mac and cheese. The sweetness of the seafood pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese sauce, making it a show-stopping dish for special occasions or dinner parties.
Vegetarian and Plant-Based Protein Options
Vegetarians don’t have to miss out on protein-packed mac and cheese. In fact, there are plenty of plant-based options that can elevate the dish while keeping it satisfying and nutritious. Below are some great alternatives to consider:
- Tofu: Firm tofu can be sautéed or baked and then added to the dish for extra protein. Because it absorbs the flavors of the cheese sauce so well, it becomes a great meat substitute with a satisfying texture. Additionally, tofu is versatile, making it easy to season to your liking.
- Tempeh: Like tofu, tempeh is a plant-based protein that can be added to mac and cheese. However, it has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor, which complements the creaminess of the sauce even more. Furthermore, tempeh offers a protein-rich alternative for those who prefer a heartier, more robust texture.
- Plant-based meat alternatives: Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods offer plant-based ground beef and sausage, both of which can be added to mac and cheese for a satisfying, meat-free meal. Not only are these alternatives packed with flavor, but they also provide the same hearty texture as their meat counterparts. As a result, they are perfect for those looking to recreate the meaty feel of traditional mac and cheese, without the meat.
By using these plant-based options, you can easily create a delicious and protein-packed mac and cheese dish that is both nutritious and satisfying, all while catering to vegetarian preferences.
Balancing Protein with Cheese
When adding proteins, it’s important to balance the richness of the cheese sauce with the flavor of the protein. Too much meat or seafood can overwhelm the dish, while too little can get lost in the sauce. A good guideline is to aim for about 1-2 cups of protein for every pound of pasta. This ensures that the flavors remain balanced and harmonious.. Aim for about 1-2 cups of protein for every pound of pasta.
5. Healthy Vegetables to Add to Macaroni and Cheese to Make It Taste Better
One of the healthiest answers to what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better is vegetables. Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or roasted cauliflower not only provides extra nutrients but also enhances the texture and flavor contrast, making your mac and cheese more enjoyable.
Popular Vegetable Additions
Here are some of the best vegetables to mix into your mac and cheese:
- Broccoli: Broccoli adds a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Lightly steam or roast the broccoli before mixing it into the mac and cheese to prevent it from getting soggy. Its slightly bitter taste complements the rich, cheesy flavor of the sauce.
- Spinach: Spinach wilts quickly, making it an easy vegetable to mix into mac and cheese. For best results, sauté the spinach before adding it to the cheese sauce. Its mild flavor makes it a seamless addition that won’t overwhelm the dish.
- Roasted cauliflower: Roasting cauliflower brings out its nutty flavor and adds a slight crunch to the dish. This is a great option for those looking to cut down on carbs while still enjoying the creaminess of mac and cheese. The roasted edges provide a pleasant textural contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Peas or edamame: Peas and edamame add a pop of color and a slight sweetness to mac and cheese. Both are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition. Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory, cheesy elements of the dish.
- Kale or collard greens: If you’re looking for a heartier green, kale or collard greens are great options. Sauté them with a bit of garlic before adding them to the mac and cheese to enhance their flavor. These greens add a slightly bitter, earthy flavor, which helps to balance the richness of the cheese.
Texture Considerations
When incorporating vegetables, be mindful of the texture. You want to maintain the creaminess of the cheese sauce while adding enough vegetables to give the dish a balanced, nutritious profile. For example:
- If you’re using broccoli or cauliflower, make sure to steam or roast them first to prevent them from becoming too watery and soggy.
- If you’re using greens like spinach or kale, sauté them first to remove excess moisture before mixing them into the sauce. This will help keep the sauce creamy without being diluted by the water content in the vegetables.
Benefits of Adding Vegetables
Vegetables not only add flavor and nutrition, but they also help balance the richness of the dish, making it feel less heavy. So, if you’re looking to make your mac and cheese healthier, vegetables are a great place to start. They provide vitamins, fiber, and a vibrant visual appeal while enhancing the dish’s overall texture and taste.
6. Crispy Toppings to Add to Macaroni and Cheese for Extra Flavor
Thinking of what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better? Try adding crispy toppings! Options like panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions can add a crunchy contrast that elevates the entire dish.
Here are some of the best options for crispy toppings:
- Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, making them perfect for a crispy topping. Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling them over the mac and cheese to help them brown evenly.
- Crushed crackers: Crushed Ritz or saltine crackers add a buttery, salty crunch to the dish. This is a great option if you’re looking for a topping with a bit more flavor.
- Fried onions or shallots: For a savory, slightly sweet topping, try adding fried onions or shallots. These crispy additions bring a new dimension of flavor to the dish.
- Crumbled bacon: If you’re a fan of bacon, crumbling some cooked bacon over the top of the mac and cheese before baking adds a smoky, salty crunch.
To achieve the perfect crispy topping, bake your macaroni and cheese in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. If you’re using breadcrumbs, crackers, or onions, mix them with melted butter or olive oil before adding them to the dish. This ensures they brown evenly and don’t dry out during baking.
A crispy topping is the finishing touch that takes mac and cheese from ordinary to extraordinary. It adds texture and flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath.
7. Gourmet Ingredients to Make Macaroni and Cheese Taste Better
For those wondering what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better for a more refined taste, gourmet ingredients are the answer. Adding truffle oil, fancy cheeses like blue cheese or brie, or even sun-dried tomatoes can give your mac and cheese a restaurant-quality feel.
Truffle Oil or Truffle Shavings
Truffle oil adds a luxurious, earthy flavor to mac and cheese. A few drops go a long way, so use it sparingly. For an even more decadent dish, try shaving fresh truffles over the top before serving. Truffles are rich in umami, and their strong, distinctive flavor brings a gourmet feel to the simplest of dishes.
Fancy Cheeses
While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, experimenting with more exotic cheeses can give your mac and cheese a sophisticated twist. Consider adding:
- Blue cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the dish.
- Brie: Melts into a rich, creamy sauce, adding a silky texture.
- Goat cheese: A tangy option that introduces a bold, earthy flavor.
Combining these cheeses can create a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy, umami flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheese sauce. Chop them finely and mix them into the pasta before baking for an unexpected pop of flavor and texture. They work well with ingredients like pesto, herbs, and cheese, offering a Mediterranean twist to your dish.
Pesto
Pesto adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese. You can either mix a spoonful of pesto into the cheese sauce or drizzle it over the top before serving for a fresh, flavorful twist. Its mix of basil, garlic, and pine nuts gives the dish a fragrant finish, ideal for summer meals.
Lobster or Crab
Lobster or crab meat adds a gourmet touch to mac and cheese. The sweetness of the seafood pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese sauce, making this dish ideal for special occasions like holiday gatherings or dinner parties. This combination transforms mac and cheese into a luxurious main course, especially when paired with a creamy béchamel sauce.
Striking the Right Balance
When using gourmet ingredients, it’s important to strike a balance. You don’t want to overpower the dish with too many flavors but rather enhance the existing flavors of the cheese and pasta. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste, especially with strong-flavored ingredients like truffle oil or blue cheese.more special. Your guests will be impressed, and you’ll enjoy the elevated flavors that these ingredients bring.
8. Cooking Techniques for Better Results
Even with the best ingredients, your cooking technique can make or break your mac and cheese. Follow these tips to ensure you get the best results every time:
- Baking vs. stovetop: Baked mac and cheese typically has a crisp, golden topping, while stovetop versions are creamier and faster to make. If you’re opting for baked, be sure to cook your pasta slightly less than al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Avoid dryness: One of the biggest complaints about mac and cheese is that it can be too dry. To avoid this, slightly undercook your pasta and add milk or cream gradually to the cheese sauce. This ensures the sauce stays creamy without becoming too thick.
- Reheating tips: Reheating mac and cheese can be tricky, as it tends to dry out. To prevent this, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating and cover the dish to retain moisture. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the creamy consistency.
By paying attention to these cooking techniques, you can ensure that your mac and cheese turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re making a quick stovetop version or baking a more elaborate dish, these tips will help you achieve the ideal balance of creamy and crispy.
9. Sauces and Condiments for a Flavor Punch
Sometimes all your macaroni and cheese needs is a little sauce or condiment to give it an extra kick. Whether you prefer heat, sweetness, or umami, there are plenty of options to enhance your dish.
Here are some sauces and condiments to try:
- Hot sauce: If you like a bit of heat, hot sauce is a great addition to mac and cheese. A few dashes can bring a spicy kick without overpowering the cheese flavor. Popular choices include sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or Tabasco.
- BBQ sauce: For a smoky-sweet combination, try adding a drizzle of BBQ sauce to your mac and cheese. This works especially well if you’ve added bacon or grilled meats to the dish.
- Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a savory, umami-packed condiment that adds depth to the cheese sauce. Just a teaspoon or two can give your mac and cheese a whole new layer of flavor.
- Soy sauce: If you’re looking to boost the umami flavor of your mac and cheese, soy sauce is a great option. It adds a salty, savory note that complements the richness of the cheese.
- Pesto: As mentioned earlier, pesto adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese. It’s also a great way to add color and freshness to the dish.
These sauces can be drizzled over the top or stirred into the cheese sauce for a flavor boost. Just be sure to taste as you go, as some condiments (like soy sauce or Worcestershire) can be quite salty.
Sauces and condiments are a quick and easy way to transform your mac and cheese, adding a whole new layer of flavor without much extra effort. Whether you like it spicy, smoky, or savory, there’s a condiment out there to suit your taste.
FAQs
What can I add to boxed mac and cheese to make it better?
You can add extra cheese, cream, and spices like garlic powder or paprika to improve the flavor. Try tossing in some bacon bits, peas, or shredded chicken for more variety.
How can I make mac and cheese creamier?
Use cream cheese, heavy cream, or sour cream instead of milk to increase creaminess. Also, cooking the pasta a little less can help maintain a creamy texture.
What vegetables can I add to mac and cheese?
Popular veggies include broccoli, spinach, roasted cauliflower, peas, and kale. These vegetables add color and nutrients without overwhelming the cheesy flavor.
What meats pair well with mac and cheese?
Bacon, chicken, ground beef, sausage, and lobster are great options to make your mac and cheese heartier.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to add to macaroni and cheese to make it taste better, the possibilities are endless. From extra cheese and creamy enhancers to proteins, vegetables, and gourmet ingredients, each addition can bring something unique to your dish. So, the next time you’re preparing macaroni and cheese, consider these options to elevate the flavors and textures, making your dish truly unforgettable.
From creamy enhancers like heavy cream and mascarpone to crunchy toppings like panko breadcrumbs and fried onions, each addition brings something new to the table. Proteins like bacon, chicken, and lobster add heartiness, while vegetables like broccoli and spinach bring freshness and color. And don’t forget the spices and sauces—paprika, nutmeg, and hot sauce can take your dish from good to unforgettable.
So next time you’re craving mac and cheese, don’t settle for the ordinary. Use this guide to explore new ingredients and techniques, and you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also full of flavor and creativity. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a special occasion, your mac and cheese will always taste better with a few thoughtful additions.