Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe (Fancier Homemade Version)

I’ve made Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe more times than I can count — especially with three hungry girls at home. But this one? This is the fancy version I go back to when I want something easy but just a bit more special.

Using the pasta from the box and mixing in real cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan gives it that rich, creamy flavor we all crave.

You still get that familiar comfort of Kraft mac and cheese, but with a homemade, grown-up twist that even picky eaters enjoy.

This recipe is easy to make, uses simple pantry staples, and comes together in no time.

All you need few simple ingredient & my recipe instructions which you’ll discover in a moment..

Why is This Kraft Mac and Cheese So Good?

This isn’t your regular box of mac and cheese. I take what we already love about the classic Kraft Mac and Cheese and give it more flavor, more creaminess, and a golden bubbly top that tastes like something straight out of a restaurant.

Using just one packet of the Kraft cheese mix lets us still keep that nostalgic taste, while the blend of Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan brings it up a notch.

The sauce which I used is smooth and buttery. The pasta is perfectly coated. And that crispy cheese top? It’s the best part.

Ingredients of This Fancy Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe

• 2 boxes Kraft mac and cheese (we’ll only use 1 cheese packet)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Truffle salt (optional, but so worth it!)
• Fresh rosemary salt for finishing
• Regular salt for pasta water

How To Make Kraft Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Make the Roux

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Then add in the flour and whisk it together. Keep stirring for 5 minutes. This is how we cook out that raw flour taste and build the base for our creamy sauce.

Step 2: Build the Béchamel

Slowly pour in your cold milk, just a little at a time. Whisk constantly. You want to avoid lumps and get a smooth texture. After all the milk is added and it starts to thicken, go ahead and turn off the heat.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Stir in the cheese packet from one of the Kraft boxes. Then slowly mix in the Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Save about 1/3 of the total cheese for the topping. Stir until your sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

Bring a big pot of water to boil and add a good amount of salt. Add both boxes of pasta and boil for about 5 minutes. You want the pasta slightly undercooked since it’ll finish in the oven. Drain the pasta well.

Step 5: Combine Sauce & Past

Add your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir to coat every noodle. Take your time here — we want it creamy and even.

Step 6: Bake & Broil

Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with the reserved cheese blend.
Place the dish 8–10 inches below your oven’s broiler and broil for about 5 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Finishing Touch

Right out of the oven, dust the top with a bit of rosemary salt if you have it. It’s optional, but such a lovely little finish.

Notes and Adaptations:

• Only use one cheese packet: Using both makes it too salty and overpowering.
• Shred cheese at home: Pre-shredded cheese has coating that doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Undercook pasta: Just 5 minutes is enough — it finishes baking in the oven.
• Don’t skip the roux: It keeps the sauce thick and velvety.
• Use truffle salt sparingly: Just a pinch makes a big difference.
• Broil carefully: Watch it closely so the cheese doesn’t burn.

Variations & Additions

• Add cooked bacon: Chop and mix into the sauce or sprinkle on top.
• Mix in cooked veggies: Broccoli, peas, or mushrooms work great.
• Use other cheeses: Try mozzarella, fontina, or pepper jack.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Make it meatier: Stir in cooked chicken, ham, or ground beef.
• Use gluten-free pasta: Just swap the Kraft pasta with your favorite gluten-free kind.

Serving Suggestion

I usually serve my fancy Kraft Mac and Cheese with something light on the side — maybe a green salad or some roasted veggies. It’s also great with a piece of toast or garlic bread.

You can serve it in a bowl for a cozy night at home or in a casserole dish right at the table. My girls love it straight from the oven when it’s still bubbling hot.

If you’re having a chill dinner at home, this dish fits right in.

How Does Fancy Kraft Mac and Cheese Taste?

It’s rich, creamy, and full of real cheese flavor. The Gruyère adds a deep, nutty taste. The cheddar gives it that bold, sharp kick. Parmesan brings a nice salty finish.

Then there’s the crispy golden cheese on top — melted and just a little crunchy. It’s comfort food but upgraded. You’ll notice right away how smooth the sauce feels and how well it hugs the pasta.

FAQs

What can I add to Kraft mac & cheese to make it better?

Mix in shredded cheese, cooked bacon, sautéed veggies, hot sauce, or a splash of cream for more flavor and creaminess.

Why not use both Kraft cheese packets?

Too much packet mix can overpower the other cheeses. One is just enough to keep that classic Kraft flavor.

How do I get a crispy top?

Broil it for 5 minutes at the end. That melts the cheese and gives it a golden top.

What can I use instead of Gruyère?

Try Swiss cheese, fontina, or Monterey Jack. They melt well and taste great too.