by Wendy Morgan

Created on: August 09, 2009

Who doesn't love the childhood staple of boxed macaroni and cheese? From poor, starving college students to families on a budget, boxed macaroni and cheese can be found in nearly every pantry. Your tastes may have matured over time, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a good old mac and cheese dinner, with a little twist.

Boxed macaroni and cheese can be spruced up to fit any lifestyle. When living on a budget, you can dress up macaroni and cheese with hamburger, chicken or even SPAM. However, the food adventure does not have to end with simple food staples. With a little creative thinking you can give boxed macaroni and cheese a complete makeover and change it from a kids food to a complete meal.

For adult versions of macaroni and cheese, try adding a few vegetables to the mix. The addition of vegetables enhances the flavor of the dish and gives a bit of extra nutritional value. Try switching things up with broccoli, onion and chicken. Then add a little asiago or gorgonzola cheese on top and you now have an adult version of a classic. Zucchini and tomatoes are flavorful and healthy additions that add color and flair. No need to stop there, add some spaghetti sauce or seasoned taco meat for a more drastic change of flavor. Create a top crust with some french fried onions and fresh herbs, and you will have created an appetizing meal for all ages.

When trying to change things up for kids, you have to be a little more careful. Kids hate vegetables, if they know they are there. Add veggies to kid versions by chopping them very fine, addnig cut up hot dogs and an extra layer of cheese. With kid approved additions, finicky kids of all ages will never know the vegetables were even in there. By adding ham and peas, you will likely please even the pickiest child.

With a classic like boxed macaroni and cheese, it is nearly impossible to ruin it by adding a few extras. Thankfully, whatever your tastes, and however diverse the food likes and dislikes are in your household, there is a spin that will please everyone.

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