How To Make Two Boxes of Kraft Mac and Cheese?
To make two boxes of Kraft Mac and Cheese, double all the ingredient quantities listed on a single box, use a larger pot for boiling and stirring, and ensure you have adequate space to stir the sauce thoroughly for a creamy and even consistency.
The Enduring Appeal of Kraft Mac and Cheese
Kraft Mac and Cheese. The name itself evokes nostalgia, comfort, and perhaps a touch of childhood glee. Whether you’re a student on a budget, a busy parent seeking a quick meal, or simply craving a cheesy classic, this iconic dish has a special place in many hearts. But what happens when one box just isn’t enough? Maybe you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for a potluck, or simply have an insatiable need for cheesy goodness. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through the process of making two boxes of Kraft Mac and Cheese perfectly, ensuring you achieve the same creamy, delicious results, just twice the amount.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you even think about boiling water, make sure you have everything you need. This preparation will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Nothing’s worse than scrambling for butter when your noodles are already al dente.
- Two boxes of Kraft Mac and Cheese (obviously!)
- 12 cups of water (double the amount for one box)
- 8 tablespoons of butter (double the amount for one box)
- 1/2 cup of milk (double the amount for one box)
- A large pot (big enough to hold the water and noodles)
- A strainer or colander
- A large spoon or spatula for stirring
The Cooking Process: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps carefully to guarantee a successful double batch of Kraft Mac and Cheese. Precision is key to maintaining the signature texture and flavor.
- Boil the water: Fill your large pot with 12 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add the noodles: Pour both boxes of macaroni into the boiling water and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the noodles: Cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on them; you want them al dente, not mushy.
- Drain the noodles: Carefully drain the cooked noodles in a strainer or colander. Make sure to get rid of all the excess water.
- Return noodles to the pot: Place the drained noodles back into the empty pot.
- Add butter: Add 8 tablespoons of butter to the noodles and stir until melted.
- Add milk: Pour in 1/2 cup of milk and stir until well combined.
- Add cheese powder: Pour in both cheese powder packets and stir vigorously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Ensure all powder is fully dissolved and evenly distributed.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your double batch of delicious Kraft Mac and Cheese!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a seemingly simple recipe, there are potential pitfalls. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve mac and cheese perfection.
- Overcooking the noodles: This leads to a mushy, unappetizing texture. Keep a close watch on the cooking time.
- Using too much water: This dilutes the cheese sauce, resulting in a watery consistency. Measure carefully.
- Not stirring enough: This can cause the noodles to stick together and the cheese powder to clump. Stir frequently throughout the cooking process.
- Adding cold milk directly from the fridge: This can slightly cool the noodles, making the sauce harder to combine and less creamy. Consider letting the milk stand for a few minutes to come to room temperature before using it.
Adjusting for Personal Preferences
While the classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to experiment and customize your mac and cheese to suit your taste. Consider adding spices, extra cheese, or even vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
- Add spices: A dash of paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder can add a subtle depth of flavor.
- Add extra cheese: Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese can create a richer, cheesier sauce.
- Add vegetables: Broccoli, peas, or spinach can add nutrients and a touch of color.
| Add-in | Benefit | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Sauce | Adds a spicy kick | Start with a small amount and add more to taste. |
| Bread Crumbs | Creates a crispy topping | Mix with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking (optional). |
| Cooked Bacon | Adds smoky and salty flavor | Crumble the bacon and mix it into the mac and cheese. |
| Diced Tomatoes | Adds freshness and acidity | Drain excess liquid before adding to prevent a watery sauce. |
FAQs: Kraft Mac and Cheese Double Dose
1. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes! While whole milk is recommended for its richness, you can use 2% milk, skim milk, or even non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or soy milk. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.
2. Can I use salted or unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is generally preferred as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish. However, salted butter can be used; just consider reducing any additional salt you might add.
3. Do I need to add extra salt?
Typically, the cheese powder provides enough salt for most palates. Taste the mac and cheese after adding the cheese powder and adjust the salt accordingly.
4. What if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a little more milk (a tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.
5. What if my cheese sauce is too thin?
If the cheese sauce is too thin, stir in a small amount of grated cheese (such as cheddar or parmesan) to thicken it up. Alternatively, cook on low heat for a minute or two, stirring constantly, to allow some of the excess moisture to evaporate.
6. Can I bake the mac and cheese after making it?
Absolutely! Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with bread crumbs (optional), and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Baking adds a crispy top layer and a deeper flavor.
7. How long can I store leftover mac and cheese?
Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
8. How do I reheat leftover mac and cheese?
To reheat leftover mac and cheese, add a splash of milk to help restore its creamy consistency. You can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop over low heat, or in the oven. Microwaving is the quickest option, but stovetop reheating allows for better control over the texture.
9. Can I freeze mac and cheese?
While freezing is possible, the texture of the mac and cheese may change slightly after thawing. The sauce might become a bit grainy. To minimize this, flash freeze individual portions on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
10. What kind of noodles can I substitute?
While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
11. How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
Stirring the noodles frequently while they are cooking is the most effective way to prevent them from sticking together. Also, ensure that the water is at a rolling boil before adding the noodles.
12. Can I use the microwave to make two boxes of Kraft Mac and Cheese?
While possible, microwaving two boxes at once is not recommended for optimal results. The cooking time and power levels would need careful adjustment, and the risk of uneven cooking and sauce clumping increases significantly. It’s generally better to stick to the stovetop method for a consistent and delicious outcome.