For me, Macaroni and cheese is a quintessential comfort food, especially in winter. Dressed up with lobster or straight from a box, the dish can fit any occasion. Italpasta recently launched their own brand of Macaroni and Cheese made with no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives. There are three flavours available, original, extra creamy and white cheddar, all made with 100% Canadian wheat and real Canadian cheddar cheese. I tried out a box of the white cheddar flavour and really enjoyed the creamy, cheesy, very easy to make macaroni. The next time I send my little brother a care package at university, there will be a few blue boxes being sent his way.
Like any other boxed macaroni and cheese, Italpasta’s version can be cooked on the stovetop or microwave. I prefer the stove top method and being able to control the amount of cheese powder I put in. Following the instructions on the box, the macaroni took less than 5 minutes to cook. I substituted water for milk (as we were all out at home) and the result was a little less creamy, but just as cheesy.
For an added crunch and savoury flavour, I added chopped up bacon bits and topped with bread crumbs. I garnished each bowl with a few snips of spring onion for a touch of colour. Even with my (slight) modifications, Italpasta’s macaroni and cheese took no time to make. The pasta itself had a great texture and the white cheddar cheese had a lot of flavour. When I first opened the cheese packet, I was immediately reminded of white cheddar flavoured popcorn, one of my favourite snacks, and the cooked result did not disappoint.
Here are a few other ideas to spice up your boxed macaroni and cheese ranging from simple to gourmet:
- After cooking, add a dash of curry powder for some punch
- Add a dash of chilli powder, paprika and chipotle pepper for spice
- Add more grated cheese (parmesan or cheddar) for extra ooziness
- Add a handful of spinach while cooking
- Add in chopped hotdogs and serve it all on a bun
- Use macaroni and cheese as a pizza topping
- Roll into balls, cover in panko, and deep fry for goodness
For a chance to try Italpasta Macaroni and Cheese yourself, check out my Instagram page where I’m giving away an Italpasta prize pack filled with all things warm and cozy! Included in the package are two boxes of Italpasta Macaroni and Cheese, warm socks, a cozy blanket and a cheese plush! Contest ends December 1st, 2016.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. All food reviewed below were provided complimentary. All opinions expressed below are wholly mine.
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