Mac and cheese is already celebrated for its cozy appeal. Now, a simple boxed ingredient has emerged as a surprising way to amplify its comforting qualities, turning an everyday dish into a maximum comfort meal.

A single post-cooking step could be the difference between a mediocre dish and a velvety, rich bowl of mac and cheese. By following one pivotal technique, home cooks can achieve a creamier and more flavorful meal every time.

An enthusiastic home cook tried Ree Drummond’s mac and cheese recipe and found unexpected success in adding breadcrumbs with garlic powder. Despite a few unconventional steps, the dish ended up delicious and quickly became a go-to comfort meal.