Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Deluxe is a comforting classic, a quick and easy meal that satisfies cravings with its creamy, cheesy goodness. While the stovetop method is traditional, the microwave offers an even faster route to cheesy bliss. However, mastering the microwave method for Kraft Deluxe requires a little finesse to avoid a rubbery, unevenly cooked result. This comprehensive guide will walk you through transforming your Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese into a microwave masterpiece, packed with flavor and perfect texture, plus creative twists to elevate it even further.
The Foundation: Perfecting the Basic Microwave Kraft Deluxe
The core principle of microwaving Kraft Deluxe successfully lies in understanding how microwaves cook food and adjusting the process accordingly. Microwaves heat food from the inside out by exciting water molecules, which can lead to uneven cooking and potential scorching if not managed correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Microwaving Kraft Deluxe
First, select a microwave-safe bowl that’s large enough to accommodate the pasta, cheese sauce, and added water. A slightly oversized bowl prevents boil-overs and provides room for stirring.
Next, empty the macaroni into the bowl. Add 1 ½ cups of water. This is crucial. Using too little water will result in dry, undercooked pasta; too much, and your cheese sauce will be watery.
Now, microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Check the pasta at the 3-minute mark and stir well. If it’s still too firm, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember, carryover cooking will continue after you remove it from the microwave, so slightly undercooking it initially is preferable to overcooking.
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain off any excess water. Leaving too much water will dilute the cheese sauce. However, don’t drain it completely dry; a little residual water helps create a creamy consistency.
Finally, add the cheese sauce from the pouch to the cooked macaroni. Stir thoroughly until the cheese sauce is evenly distributed and the pasta is coated in creamy, cheesy goodness.
Key Considerations for Microwave Success
Microwave Power: Microwave wattage varies significantly. If your microwave is particularly powerful, you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly. Conversely, if your microwave is less powerful, you may need to increase it. Adjust cooking times based on your microwave’s wattage.
Stirring is Essential: Stirring the macaroni halfway through the cooking process helps ensure even cooking. Similarly, thorough stirring after adding the cheese sauce is crucial for creating a smooth, homogenous sauce.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked macaroni becomes mushy and loses its pleasant texture. Err on the side of slightly undercooking it, as it will continue to cook from residual heat after being removed from the microwave.
Elevating Your Microwave Kraft Deluxe: Flavor Enhancements
While Kraft Deluxe is delicious on its own, it’s also a fantastic canvas for adding your own creative flair. Consider these simple additions to transform your microwave mac and cheese into a gourmet experience.
Adding Protein Power
Cooked Chicken or Ham: Diced cooked chicken or ham adds protein and savory flavor to your mac and cheese. Mix it in after the cheese sauce for a heartier meal.
Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits add a smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. Sprinkle them on top just before serving.
Ground Beef or Sausage: Browned ground beef or sausage adds a substantial, meaty element to your mac and cheese. Drain off any excess grease before mixing it in.
Vegetable Variety
Steamed Broccoli or Peas: Adding steamed broccoli florets or frozen peas (microwaved briefly) introduces a touch of freshness and nutritional value.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced canned tomatoes, either plain or seasoned, add a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach wilts quickly when stirred into the hot mac and cheese, adding a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Spice It Up
Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce add a kick of heat that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce.
Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder enhances the savory flavors of the dish.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle, earthy spice that complements the cheese sauce.
Creamy Creations
Cream Cheese: A tablespoon of cream cheese stirred into the cheese sauce creates an even creamier, richer texture.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese.
Milk or Half-and-Half: If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or half-and-half to thin it out and create a smoother consistency.
Mastering the Cheese Sauce: Achieving Perfect Creaminess
The cheese sauce is the heart of Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese, and achieving the perfect creamy consistency is essential for a satisfying meal. Avoid a grainy or clumpy sauce by following these tips.
Preventing a Grainy Sauce
Don’t Overcook: Overheating the cheese sauce can cause the proteins to break down, resulting in a grainy texture.
Low and Slow (Microwave Style): Even though you’re using a microwave, avoid blasting the cheese sauce at full power. After adding the cheese sauce powder, microwave in short bursts (10-15 seconds), stirring well in between, until it’s fully melted and smooth.
Add Liquid: If the cheese sauce seems too thick or starts to look grainy, add a splash of milk, cream, or even pasta water to thin it out and restore its creamy texture.
Boosting the Cheese Flavor
Add Extra Cheese: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese to intensify the cheesy flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cheddar cheese in Kraft Deluxe.
Nutritional Yeast: For a vegan-friendly cheese boost, add a tablespoon or two of nutritional yeast. It has a cheesy, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Advanced Microwave Mac & Cheese Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can experiment with more advanced techniques to create truly unique and delicious microwave mac and cheese dishes.
Creating a Cheesy Crust
Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs (panko or regular) on top of the mac and cheese, then drizzle with melted butter. Microwave for a minute or two until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Crushed Crackers: Crushed crackers, such as Ritz or saltines, provide a salty, buttery crust.
Cheese Topping: Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on top of the mac and cheese and microwave until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Layering Flavors
Mac & Cheese Casserole: Create a mini casserole by layering the mac and cheese with other ingredients, such as cooked vegetables, meat, and cheese. Microwave until heated through and bubbly.
Taco Mac: Mix in taco seasoning, ground beef, and salsa for a Tex-Mex twist on mac and cheese. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
Buffalo Chicken Mac: Toss shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and mix it into the mac and cheese. Top with crumbled blue cheese or ranch dressing.
Microwave-Friendly Add-Ins
These additions work well for convenient microwave cooking:
- Frozen vegetables: Peas, corn, and mixed vegetables can be added directly to the macaroni during the cooking process.
- Canned beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas add protein and fiber to your mac and cheese.
- Pre-cooked meats: Rotisserie chicken, deli meat, or leftover cooked ground beef are all great options for adding protein.
- Jarred sauces: Pesto, marinara sauce, or alfredo sauce can be stirred into the mac and cheese for added flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Microwave Mac & Cheese Problems
Even with careful preparation, you might encounter some common issues when microwaving Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.
Dry Mac & Cheese
Cause: Not enough water used initially, overcooking, or excessive draining.
Solution: Add a tablespoon or two of milk, cream, or pasta water to the mac and cheese and stir well. Microwave for a few seconds to heat through.
Watery Mac & Cheese
Cause: Too much water used initially, or insufficient draining.
Solution: Microwave the mac and cheese, uncovered, for a minute or two to evaporate some of the excess liquid. Stir occasionally.
Clumpy Cheese Sauce
Cause: Overcooking the cheese sauce, or not stirring thoroughly enough.
Solution: Add a splash of milk or cream and stir vigorously to smooth out the sauce. Microwave for a few seconds to heat through.
Unevenly Cooked Pasta
Cause: Uneven microwave heating, or not stirring the pasta during cooking.
Solution: Stir the pasta well and microwave for additional 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until evenly cooked.
Burnt Mac & Cheese
Cause: Overcooking, especially on high power.
Solution: Unfortunately, there’s no way to salvage burnt mac and cheese. Start over with a fresh batch, being more careful to monitor the cooking time.
Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese: Nutrition Information and Considerations
Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese provides a quick source of carbohydrates and some protein, but it’s also relatively high in sodium and saturated fat.
Nutritional Value (approximate, per serving)
Calories: 350-400
Fat: 15-20g
Saturated Fat: 8-10g
Sodium: 700-800mg
Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Protein: 10-12g
Tips for a Healthier Mac & Cheese
Reduce Sodium: Look for low-sodium macaroni and cheese options or use less of the cheese sauce mix.
Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas increases the nutritional value and adds fiber.
Choose Lean Protein: Opt for lean protein sources like grilled chicken or turkey to reduce saturated fat.
Control Portion Size: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie and fat intake.
Beyond the Box: Homemade Cheese Sauce Alternatives
While the convenience of Kraft Deluxe’s cheese sauce is undeniable, you can create your own homemade cheese sauce for a healthier and more flavorful alternative.
Basic Homemade Cheese Sauce
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations on Homemade Cheese Sauce
- Sharp Cheddar: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack cheese creates a mild, creamy sauce.
- Spicy Cheese Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Cheese Sauce: Use a vegan butter substitute, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast for a vegan cheese sauce.
Microwaving Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese doesn’t have to result in a mediocre meal. By following these tips and techniques, you can transform a simple box of mac and cheese into a delicious, satisfying, and customizable dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or snack. Experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own signature microwave mac and cheese masterpiece. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your microwave.
Can I use milk other than 2% when making Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese in the microwave?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of milk! While 2% milk is often recommended for its balance of creaminess and lightness, you can substitute it with whole milk for a richer, more decadent flavor. Alternatively, you could try using skim milk if you’re looking to reduce the fat content, but be aware that it might result in a slightly thinner sauce. Plant-based milk options like almond milk or soy milk can also be used, but their flavors might subtly alter the overall taste of the mac and cheese.
Regardless of the milk you choose, keep in mind that the microwave cooking time may need slight adjustments. Monitor the sauce’s consistency and adjust cooking time in short intervals (15-30 seconds) until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember to stir well after each interval to ensure even heating and prevent the cheese sauce from scorching.
What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from becoming gummy in the microwave?
One of the keys to avoiding gummy noodles is ensuring the right amount of water is used during the initial cooking stage. Too much water will leave the noodles swimming and potentially overcooked, while too little will result in them being undercooked and unevenly hydrated. Carefully measure the water according to the package instructions and consider slightly reducing the amount, especially if you tend to experience gummy noodles regularly.
Another trick is to stir the noodles halfway through the microwave cooking time. This helps to redistribute the heat and prevents clumping, which can lead to uneven cooking and a gummy texture. Once the noodles are cooked through, drain them thoroughly before adding the cheese sauce mixture. Any excess water left behind will contribute to a less-than-ideal consistency.
Can I add vegetables to Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese when microwaving it?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your microwaved Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. However, timing is crucial to ensure the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness without overcooking the noodles. It’s generally best to pre-cook the vegetables slightly before adding them to the mac and cheese, especially if they’re dense like broccoli or carrots.
For vegetables like spinach or frozen peas, you can usually add them during the last minute of cooking, as they require minimal cooking time. Simply stir them into the noodles and cheese sauce mixture and continue microwaving until they’re heated through. Other vegetables like steamed broccoli or sauteed mushrooms can be stirred in after the mac and cheese is fully cooked for a perfect, customizable meal.
How do I make the cheese sauce smoother and less grainy in the microwave?
A smooth and creamy cheese sauce is essential for the perfect Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese experience. To avoid a grainy texture, ensure the milk is at room temperature before adding it to the cheese sauce mix. Cold milk can sometimes cause the cheese to clump and become grainy when heated in the microwave. Also, avoid overcooking the cheese sauce, as excessive heat can also lead to graininess.
Stirring the cheese sauce mixture thoroughly and consistently during the cooking process is also critical. This helps the ingredients to emulsify properly, resulting in a smooth and uniform texture. If you find the sauce is still slightly grainy, try adding a small pat of butter or a splash of extra milk to help smooth it out and create a more velvety consistency.
What kind of cheese can I add to Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese for extra flavor?
Adding extra cheese is a surefire way to boost the flavor profile of your Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. Consider incorporating cheeses that melt well and complement the existing cheddar flavor. Sharp cheddar will add a bolder, more intense cheese taste, while Gruyere will bring a nutty and slightly sweet dimension to the dish. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor.
For a bit of heat, try adding some shredded pepper jack cheese. Blue cheese crumbles or a sprinkle of Parmesan can provide a salty, savory kick. Incorporate your extra cheese of choice into the sauce during the last minute of cooking time to prevent it from becoming rubbery. A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Can I microwave Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese in a plastic container?
While it’s tempting to use plastic containers for convenience, it’s generally recommended to use microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers for heating Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. Some plastics can leach chemicals into your food when heated, especially when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Look for plastic containers specifically labeled as “microwave-safe,” as these are designed to withstand microwave heating without releasing harmful substances.
Glass or ceramic containers are generally considered a safer and more durable option for microwaving food. They’re less likely to leach chemicals, are easier to clean, and distribute heat more evenly. If you must use a plastic container, ensure it’s clearly marked as microwave-safe and avoid overheating the mac and cheese.
How can I prevent the mac and cheese from splattering in the microwave?
Microwave splattering can be messy and inconvenient, but there are simple steps to prevent it when preparing Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. One effective technique is to cover the container loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a piece of microwave-safe plastic wrap. This helps to trap the steam and prevent the mac and cheese from bubbling over and splattering onto the interior of your microwave.
Alternatively, you can place a microwave-safe plate on top of the container, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. Stirring the mac and cheese periodically during the cooking process also helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots that can cause splattering. Additionally, use a container that’s appropriately sized for the amount of mac and cheese you’re preparing. An overly full container is more likely to splatter.