Walmart’s Mac & Cheese Makeover: Taste Test & Cheesy Recipe Creations
Walmart’s Great Value Mac & Cheese has long been a budget-friendly staple in many households. But recently, Walmart announced a revamp of their mac & cheese recipe, promising a richer, creamier, and more flavorful experience. As self-proclaimed mac & cheese aficionados, we couldn’t resist putting this claim to the test! In this blog post, we’ll dive into a detailed taste test of the new and improved Great Value Mac & Cheese, and then, for the adventurous cooks out there, we’ll explore some creative and delicious recipes that elevate this humble dish into gourmet territory. Get ready for a cheesy journey!
## The Great Value Mac & Cheese Taste Test: Is it Worth the Hype?
Before we get cooking, let’s address the burning question: Is Walmart’s new mac & cheese actually better? We purchased both the original and the new versions to conduct a side-by-side comparison. Here’s what we found:
**Appearance:**
* **Original:** The original mac & cheese had a slightly pale, almost yellowish-orange color. The cheese sauce looked somewhat thin and watery.
* **New:** The revamped version boasted a richer, deeper orange hue. The sauce appeared noticeably thicker and creamier, clinging better to the macaroni noodles.
**Aroma:**
* **Original:** The aroma was faint, with a mild cheesy scent. It wasn’t particularly enticing.
* **New:** The new version had a more pronounced and appetizing cheesy aroma. It smelled more like real cheese and less like artificial flavoring.
**Texture:**
* **Original:** The texture of the original sauce was thin and somewhat grainy. The macaroni noodles were often overcooked and mushy.
* **New:** The new sauce was significantly smoother and creamier, with a pleasant velvety texture. The macaroni noodles seemed to hold their shape better, resulting in a more al dente bite.
**Taste:**
* **Original:** The original mac & cheese had a bland, somewhat artificial cheese flavor. It lacked depth and complexity.
* **New:** The new version offered a much more satisfying cheesy flavor. It tasted richer, creamier, and more like real cheese. There was a noticeable improvement in the overall flavor profile.
**Overall Impression:**
Walmart’s new and improved Great Value Mac & Cheese is a definite upgrade! The richer flavor, creamier texture, and more appealing appearance make it a significantly more enjoyable experience than the original. While it might not rival gourmet mac & cheese from a fancy restaurant, it’s a fantastic option for a quick, easy, and affordable meal. We give it a thumbs up!
## Beyond the Box: Creative Mac & Cheese Recipe Ideas
Now that we’ve established that Walmart’s mac & cheese is a solid base, let’s explore some fun and flavorful ways to transform it into something truly special. These recipes are designed to be easy to follow and customizable to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to create your own unique mac & cheese masterpiece!
**Recipe 1: Bacon & Gruyere Mac & Cheese**
This recipe adds smoky bacon and nutty Gruyere cheese to elevate the classic mac & cheese into a sophisticated and satisfying dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
* 1/4 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
* 1 tablespoon butter
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Melt Butter and Cheese:** In the same pot (off the heat), add the butter and shredded Gruyere cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked macaroni noodles and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
4. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. **Enjoy:** Serve immediately and enjoy the decadent combination of smoky bacon and nutty Gruyere cheese in your creamy mac & cheese.
**Recipe 2: Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese**
For those who crave a spicy kick, this recipe combines the comfort of mac & cheese with the fiery flavor of buffalo chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
* 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
* 2 tablespoons ranch or blue cheese dressing
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional: Green onions for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni noodles, shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch or blue cheese dressing. Stir well to coat the chicken and noodles.
3. **Add Cheese:** Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. **Heat Through:** Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can heat it in the microwave for a few minutes.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy and cheesy goodness of Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 3: Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese**
This recipe adds a healthy dose of broccoli and extra cheddar cheese for a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creamier sauce)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Add Broccoli and Cheese:** In the same pot (off the heat), add the steamed or roasted broccoli florets and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the broccoli is evenly distributed.
3. **Adjust Consistency:** If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the healthy and cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 4: Spicy Chorizo Mac & Cheese**
This recipe infuses the creamy mac and cheese with the vibrant and smoky flavors of chorizo sausage, creating a bold and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 4 oz chorizo sausage, removed from casing and cooked
* 1/4 cup diced onion
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* Optional: Cilantro for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Chorizo:** In a skillet, cook the chorizo sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Sauté Onion and Garlic:** Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. **Add Spices:** Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
5. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked macaroni noodles, chorizo mixture, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the same pot. Stir well to combine.
6. **Heat Through:** Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy and savory Chorizo Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 5: Pizza Mac & Cheese**
Combining two comfort food favorites, this Pizza Mac & Cheese is a fun and delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 1/4 cup pepperoni, sliced
* 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
* 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Optional: Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In the same pot, combine the cooked macaroni noodles, pizza sauce, pepperoni slices, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Add any desired toppings like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
3. **Heat Through:** Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy and flavorful Pizza Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 6: Jalapeno Popper Mac & Cheese**
This recipe brings the flavors of a classic jalapeno popper to a creamy mac and cheese, resulting in a spicy and addictive dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
* 1 tablespoon melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced jalapenos, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
3. **Add Cheese Mixture:** Add the cream cheese mixture to the cooked macaroni noodles and stir until well combined.
4. **Top with Bread Crumbs:** In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the mac and cheese.
5. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
6. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy the spicy and creamy Jalapeno Popper Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 7: Mediterranean Mac & Cheese**
This recipe incorporates Mediterranean flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and spinach to create a vibrant and healthy mac and cheese.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup baby spinach, chopped
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Sauté Garlic and Spinach:** In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked macaroni noodles, sun-dried tomatoes, and sautéed spinach to the same pot. Stir well to combine.
4. **Add Feta:** Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
5. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 8: BBQ Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese**
This recipe combines the savory sweetness of BBQ pulled pork with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1 cup BBQ pulled pork
* 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (or more, to taste)
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional: Coleslaw for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In the same pot, combine the cooked macaroni noodles, BBQ pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine.
3. **Heat Through:** Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and top with coleslaw, if desired. Enjoy the smoky and cheesy BBQ Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 9: French Onion Mac & Cheese**
This recipe captures the rich and savory flavors of French onion soup in a comforting mac and cheese dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* 1/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: French bread croutons for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Caramelize Onions:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-30 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
2. **Deglaze Pan:** Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for a few minutes, until the broth has reduced slightly.
3. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked macaroni noodles and caramelized onion mixture to the same pot. Stir well to combine.
5. **Add Gruyere:** Stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese.
6. **Heat Through:** Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can broil it for a minute or two to melt the cheese.
7. **Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with French bread croutons, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich and savory French Onion Mac & Cheese.
**Recipe 10: Taco Mac & Cheese**
This recipe combines the zesty flavors of tacos with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, creating a fiesta in your mouth.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (7.25 oz) Walmart Great Value Mac & Cheese (new version)
* 1/2 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional: Sour cream, salsa, and avocado for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ground Beef:** Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to package directions.
2. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the mac & cheese according to the package directions. Drain the macaroni noodles and set aside.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the cooked macaroni noodles, seasoned ground beef, and diced tomatoes to the same pot. Stir well to combine.
4. **Add Cheddar:** Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. **Heat Through:** Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately and top with sour cream, salsa, and avocado, if desired. Enjoy the zesty and flavorful Taco Mac & Cheese.
## Tips for Making the Best Mac & Cheese
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy mac & cheese. Cook the macaroni noodles al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
* **Use Real Cheese:** While the cheese powder in the box is convenient, adding some real cheese will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your mac & cheese. Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorites.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients and seasonings.
* **Add a Touch of Heat:** A pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some diced jalapenos can add a delicious kick to your mac & cheese.
* **Use Milk or Cream:** Using milk or cream instead of water will result in a richer and creamier sauce.
* **Bake it for Extra Flavor:** Baking your mac & cheese will create a crispy top and meld the flavors together beautifully.
## Final Thoughts
Walmart’s new and improved Great Value Mac & Cheese is a surprisingly delicious and versatile base for creating a wide variety of cheesy dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a gourmet mac & cheese experience, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a box (or two!) and get cooking! Let us know in the comments which recipe is your favorite, and share your own creative mac & cheese creations.