Adding a bit of savoury crunch instantly transforms boring mac and cheese.

Macaroni cheese has long been the ultimate comfort dinner for busy South African families.

It’s quick, affordable, kid-friendly and almost guaranteed to disappear from the plate without complaints.

But when the same creamy bowl of mac and cheese lands on the table week after week, even a family favourite can start to lose its magic.

The good news is that upgrading homemade macaroni cheese does not require a complicated recipe or expensive ingredients.