Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, a childhood staple, and a dish that brings smiles to faces young and old. But sometimes, even the most beloved classics need a little sprucing up. Enter: Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese! This isn’t your grandma’s mac and cheese (unless your grandma is super trendy). This recipe elevates the classic Kraft Mac & Cheese with the bold, savory flavors of everything bagel seasoning. It’s a simple yet ingenious way to transform a weeknight dinner into something truly special.

This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you’ll be able to whip up this dish in no time. Get ready to experience mac and cheese like never before!

## Why Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese?

Why mess with perfection? Well, sometimes perfection can be…a little boring. Everything bagel seasoning is a flavor bomb, packed with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. It adds a delightful crunch and an irresistible savory depth to the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. The combination is unexpected, yet utterly addictive.

Here are a few reasons why you should try this recipe:

* **It’s a flavor explosion:** The everything bagel seasoning adds a salty, savory, and slightly oniony/garlicky flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
* **It’s easy to make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
* **It’s customizable:** You can easily adjust the amount of everything bagel seasoning to your liking.
* **It’s a crowd-pleaser:** Everyone will love this unique twist on a classic dish.
* **It’s a great way to use up leftover everything bagel seasoning:** If you’re anything like me, you probably have a jar of everything bagel seasoning lurking in your pantry. This is the perfect way to put it to good use.

## The Secret Ingredient: Kraft Mac & Cheese (Obviously!)

While this recipe encourages creativity, we’re not reinventing the wheel. Kraft Mac & Cheese is the perfect base for this dish. Its creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta provide the ideal canvas for the everything bagel seasoning. Feel free to experiment with other boxed mac and cheese brands, but Kraft is the classic for a reason!

## Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **1 box (7.25 oz) Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner**
* **1/4 cup milk** (2% or whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
* **4 tablespoons butter** (salted or unsalted, your preference)
* **2-3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning** (adjust to your liking)
* **Optional toppings:** Chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Medium saucepan**
* **Colander**
* **Measuring cups and spoons**
* **Stirring spoon or spatula**

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese masterpiece:

**Step 1: Cook the Macaroni**

* Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions (usually 7-8 minutes) or until al dente.

**Tip:** Don’t overcook the macaroni! Slightly undercooked pasta will hold its shape better and absorb the sauce more effectively.

**Step 2: Drain the Macaroni**

* Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent the noodles from sticking together.

**Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce**

* Return the saucepan to the stovetop. Add the milk and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.

**Step 4: Add the Cheese Powder**

* Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the cheese powder from the Kraft Mac & Cheese box and stir until the cheese powder is completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps!

**Tip:** If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, cook it over low heat for a minute or two, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.

**Step 5: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce**

* Add the drained macaroni to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the macaroni evenly with the sauce.

**Step 6: Add the Everything Bagel Seasoning**

* This is where the magic happens! Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning over the mac and cheese. Stir well to distribute the seasoning throughout the dish. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Serve the Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

## Tips and Tricks for the Best Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese

* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** As mentioned earlier, slightly undercooked pasta is ideal for mac and cheese. It will hold its shape better and absorb the sauce more effectively.
* **Use good quality ingredients:** While Kraft Mac & Cheese is the star of the show, using good quality milk and butter will enhance the flavor of the dish.
* **Adjust the seasoning to your liking:** The amount of everything bagel seasoning you use is a matter of personal preference. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste.
* **Add a pinch of black pepper:** A little bit of black pepper can add a nice subtle kick to the mac and cheese.
* **Get creative with toppings:** The possibilities are endless! Some of my favorite toppings include chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce, toasted breadcrumbs, and even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
* **Make it a complete meal:** Add a side salad or some steamed vegetables to make it a more balanced meal.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add protein:** Stir in cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or chopped ham for a heartier meal.
* **Bake it:** For a bubbly, cheesy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Use different cheeses:** While Kraft Mac & Cheese is the base, you can add other cheeses to enhance the flavor. Try adding shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere cheese to the sauce.

## Variations on the Theme

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations:

* **Spicy Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
* **Bacon Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese:** Cook some bacon until crispy, crumble it, and add it to the mac and cheese along with the everything bagel seasoning.
* **Vegetarian Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese:** Add some chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers, to the mac and cheese.
* **Deluxe Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese:** Add cooked lobster meat or crab meat for a truly decadent dish.
* **Cream Cheese Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese:** Stir in 2 ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess and tang.
* **Everything Bagel Pesto Mac and Cheese:** Swirl in a spoonful of pesto before serving.

## Serving Suggestions

Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Side salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese.
* **Steamed vegetables:** Broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans are all great options.
* **Garlic bread:** Crispy garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any pasta dish.
* **Grilled chicken or fish:** Add a protein source to make it a more complete meal.
* **Soup:** A bowl of tomato soup or grilled cheese (cut into dippers!) would make for a cozy meal.

## Making it Ahead

While best served immediately, you can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time. Cook the macaroni and make the cheese sauce, but don’t combine them yet. Store the macaroni and sauce separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce over low heat, add the macaroni and everything bagel seasoning, and stir well.

## Storage Instructions

Leftover Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

## FAQs

**Can I use a different type of pasta?**

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can also use shells, rotini, penne, or any other small pasta shape.

**Can I use a different type of cheese?**

Yes, you can add other cheeses to the sauce. Try adding shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere cheese.

**Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**

Yes, you can use gluten-free macaroni and a gluten-free cheese powder to make this recipe gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free macaroni and cheese options now.

**Can I make this recipe vegan?**

Yes, you can use vegan macaroni and cheese and vegan butter to make this recipe vegan. There are many great vegan alternatives available at most grocery stores.

**Where can I find everything bagel seasoning?**

You can find everything bagel seasoning at most grocery stores, usually in the spice aisle or the seasoning blends section. You can also find it online.

**Can I make my own everything bagel seasoning?**

Yes, you can easily make your own everything bagel seasoning. Simply combine equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic flakes, dried onion flakes, and salt.

## Conclusion

Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese is a fun, flavorful, and easy way to elevate a classic comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform a box of Kraft Mac & Cheese into a truly special dish. So, the next time you’re craving mac and cheese, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. Who knew that adding everything bagel seasoning to mac and cheese could be so delicious? It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory, with a delightful crunch that will keep you coming back for more.

So go ahead, unleash your inner culinary artist and create your own Kraft Everything Bagel Mac and Cheese masterpiece. And don’t forget to share your creations with us! We’d love to see what you come up with.

Enjoy!