As a college kid, I know macaroni and cheese is one of the greatest things to ever happen to humanity. It's cheap, easy to make, and overall, just delicious! But, that doesn't mean it can't get even better, right? For those wanting to travel outside of the norm and explore all the different ways that classic mac and cheese can be kicked up a notch, try these super easy alterations.
1. Buffalo Ranch Mac and Cheese
Take your regular mac and cheese, add buffalo or hot sauce in to your liking, and then add ranch dressing. Mix it all together, and it is the experience of a lifetime. This also works well with Sriracha sauce, for those of you who like that.
2. Parmesan Garlic Mac and Cheese
Add in shredded Parmesan cheese and a pinch of garlic powder, just enough so that it's noticeable, but not overbearing. The shredded cheese adds a cheesier element and different texture to the already cheesy sauce, plus it tastes like my favorite Buffalo Wild Wings sauce, which is awesome.
3. Fried Mac and Cheese
This one is super easy and can be done in a few different ways. The simplest way is to just add in bread crumbs or Panko crumbs and mix it all in the bowl. You could also do this, then spoon out small scoops and toast them on a greased pan over the stove. Both are easy, both are delicious. Take your pick.
4. Queso Mac and Cheese
Simple. Just put a spoonful or two of salsa into your bowl and mix it up. You've already got cheese sauce, so add the salsa and it's basically queso dip plus noodles. How could it get any better?! This also works if you want to eat it with tortilla chips.
5. Grilled Cheese Mac and Cheese
Another food college kids love: the grilled cheese sandwich. Just make your grilled cheese like usual, but spread mac and cheese on the bread. It's up to you if you still want to use sliced cheese as well, but I would recommend it. "The more the merrier" also applies to dairy products.
6. Pizza Mac and Cheese
Use pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and whatever other toppings you like on your pizza. Pepperoni, sausage, olives, peppers, tomatoes, whatever you want. Go crazy!
7. Rice and Beans Mac and Cheese
This is exactly what it sounds like. Add in Spanish rice and refried or black beans to your mac and cheese. It will be delicious and most likely give you gas. Whatever, it happens.
8. Cheeseburger
This is super easy and can most likely be done with some kind of leftovers. Add in ground hamburger and shredded cheddar cheese, and like magic, you have a cheeseburger in a bowl. Put it on bread if you want. You do you.
9. BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese
Another leftover meal! Woohoo, food you don't have to pay for! Grilled chicken breast and barbecue sauce is all you need. Mix it in and it's just the best.
10. Mozzarella Stick Mac and Cheese
Who doesn't love mozzarella sticks? To make this, take shredded mozzarella cheese and Panko or bread crumbs and mix it all together. If you'd like, add marinara sauce, too!
So, if you ever find yourself bored with the same cheesy pasta you've been eating since you were three, or if you just want to try something new, take whatever you have on hand and make some of these! They won't disappoint.
