Upgrade Boxed Mac and Cheese with Avocado

This combination is asking you to take two of life’s greatest pleasures — macaroni and cheese and avocados — and bring them together in cheesy, creamy harmony. When you’re running low on ideas for a fast and truly enjoyable dinner, this quick mac and cheese hack is the one to turn to.

Avocado adds an extra dose of creaminess to your mac and cheese without actually throwing in any more cheese or milk — although that is always an option. It does this while also adding a touch of texture, making the boxed mac and cheese instantly more interesting. Add it in cubes or slices, stirred in or left on top to poke at before you dig up the cheesy noodles.

Cook a pot of instant mac and cheese and cube a ripe avocado. Fold in the avocado once your cheesy pasta is done and then spoon everything into bowls. A few grinds of black pepper on top before eating helps balance the richness.

A box of instant macaroni and cheese is a blank slate for a quick and easy, but more importantly, family-friendly lunch or dinner. With the help of well-loved pantry staples, you can whip up some cheesy mac that’s bigger in flavor, texture, and satisfaction. This series gives you the inspiration to dig through your kitchen and discover single ingredients that will transform your bowl.