By: Julia Mertes, Communications Intern, The Lion’s Pantry
After a long day of work and school, you will likely head to your kitchen looking for something to heat up in a flash. Like many college students, your eyes may land on the box of gooey macaroni and cheese.It’s a staple dish for college students trying to eat on a budget. However, after a while, the quick and easy dinner option may become a little repetitive.
Here are five tips to elevate your next dinner to include extra flavor and texture.
1. Add extra cheese to your dish.
You can never go wrong with cheese! So, sprinkle some additional mozzarella or American cheese to the mix.
2. Mix in some hot sauce and chicken to make buffalo chicken mac n’ cheese.
Whether you enjoy rotisserie chicken, fried chicken or a meat alternative, buffalo mac n’ cheese may be the perfect evening treat for you. With few additional ingredients and a bucket-load full of flavor, there are many variations to this classic treat.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of chicken, pick up some ham to add into the mix. Buffalo ham mac n’ cheese may be your new favorite treat.
Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev on Pexels
3. Add in vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and spinach.
Adding vegetables to your dinner not only increases the nutritional value but also adds flavor and texture. Pick up your favorite leafy greens and go from there!
4. Similar to the buffalo chicken suggestion, try adding barbecue sauce and a protein of your choice to your dinner for added flavor.
If you’re a fan of BBQ chicken, you can use that as inspiration for your next mac n’ cheese dinner. Pour in a generous helping of sauce and the other ingredients you feel like including.
5. Sprinkle some bacon bits or breadcrumbs on the top of your dish.
If you need a crunch on the top of your pasta, add some bacon bits or breadcrumbs.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels
6. Add spices and fresh herbs to your dish.
Are you a fan of garlic? Try adding it to your dish. Like some paprika? Sprinkle some into your next bowl of pasta. Simply add in the spices and herbs that you have and see how it tastes.
7. Use your leftovers for extra flavor in your dish.
Have leftover pulled pork from a community dinner? It may be the perfect opportunity to combine the sweet and savory flavors of pork with your cheesy macaroni meal.
Did you treat yourself to your favorite restaurant dinner or attend a picnic with your friends? Use the leftovers in your macaroni and cheese. Simply be creative.
8. Mix in some jalapeños for some spice and heat.
Hot sauce isn’t the only way to add some heat to your macaroni and cheese. Try adding some peppers to your dish for added oomph.
Do you know someone who may be tired of eating the same boxed macaroni and cheese for dinner a few times a week? Share this article with them to spread both joy and yummy meal ideas their way.
What is your favorite way to enhance your macaroni and cheese recipes? Be sure to share them with us!
