Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these creamy macaroni and cheese recipe variations! In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Kraft macaroni and cheese recipes that will take you on a flavorful journey from classic comfort food to international-inspired twists. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kicks, rich buttery flavors, or bold herbs, we’ve got you covered.
From the tried-and-true Classic Kraft Macaroni and Cheese with Butter and Milk to more adventurous options like Truffle Oil Infused Kraft Mac and Cheese and Lobster and Herb Kraft Macaroni Delight, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a box of macaroni, fire up your oven or stove, and get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most satisfying pasta dishes around!
Classic Kraft Macaroni and Cheese with Butter and Milk
A comforting and nostalgic recipe that brings back memories of childhood lunches. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy and satisfying macaroni dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 box of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 cup of milk
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the contents of the Kraft Macaroni and Cheese box (including the cheese powder) to the melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Kraft Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, spicy twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe. A perfect blend of cheesy goodness and jalapeño heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced jalapeños and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Add milk, grated cheddar cheese, and cooked macaroni to the saucepan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine with Kraft Macaroni & Cheese contents. Mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Loaded Kraft Macaroni
Transform your classic macaroni and cheese into a decadent, loaded dish with crispy bacon and melted cheddar goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the crumbled bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the skillet with the bacon. Stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the macaroni mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional crumbled bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Kraft Mac and Cheese
This recipe takes the classic comfort food to the next level by adding spicy buffalo chicken flavor to the mix. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously unique mac and cheese dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (additional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to box instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in Frank’s RedHot sauce; cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, buffalo chicken, and additional shredded cheddar cheese in a mixing bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Kraft Macaroni Bake
Elevate your macaroni game with this creamy, cheesy twist on a classic comfort food dish. This easy-to-make recipe combines the convenience of Kraft macaroni and cheese with the flavors of garlic and parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni & cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Kraft macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, garlic mixture, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Infused Kraft Mac and Cheese
Elevate a classic comfort food with the earthy sophistication of truffle oil. This recipe adds a luxurious twist to your macaroni and cheese game.
Ingredients:
- 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
- 2 tbsp truffle oil
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the contents of the Kraft macaroni and cheese box according to package instructions.
- Add the truffle oil and stir until well combined.
- If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheddar cheese on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Kraft Macaroni Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a family favorite that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni
– 2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 package Kraft Mac & Cheese Dinner mix
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine broccoli and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the broccoli is tender. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Kraft Mac & Cheese Dinner mix and stir until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of hot water, whisking constantly.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pulled Pork Kraft Mac and Cheese Sandwich
A twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the rich flavors of pulled pork with creamy Kraft macaroni and cheese, all sandwiched between a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pulled pork
– 1 cup Kraft macaroni and cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Butter the hamburger buns and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a separate pot, heat the Kraft macaroni and cheese according to package instructions.
4. Place toasted buns on a baking sheet and top each with a spoonful of macaroni and cheese, followed by a generous helping of pulled pork.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Lobster and Herb Kraft Macaroni Delight
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Lobster and Herb Kraft Macaroni Delight. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or as a treat for the senses.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cooked lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked lobster meat and stir until well combined.
5. Combine macaroni and lobster mixture; transfer to a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle chopped chives on top and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican-Style Kraft Mac and Cheese with Chorizo
Elevate your comfort food game by adding the bold flavors of chorizo to your favorite macaroni and cheese. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of Kraft macaroni and cheese with the spicy kick of Mexican chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni and cheese
– 1 lb Mexican chorizo, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the chorizo in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and crispy.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and jalapeño to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Prepare the Kraft macaroni and cheese according to package instructions.
4. Combine the cooked chorizo mixture with the macaroni and cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Chicken Kraft Macaroni Bowl
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying BBQ Pulled Chicken Kraft Macaroni Bowl. This recipe is a twist on the classic mac and cheese, adding tender pulled chicken and a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
– 1/2 cup BBQ Pulled Chicken sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the chicken breasts according to package instructions. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, and BBQ Pulled Chicken sauce. Mix until well combined.
5. Add the pulled chicken to the bowl and stir until coated with the macaroni mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Kraft Mac and Cheese
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese with the flavors of Italy. This creamy dish combines the comforting taste of Kraft macaroni and cheese with the brightness of pesto and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni and cheese
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Kraft macaroni and cheese according to package instructions.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine pesto and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir over low heat until smooth.
4. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese with pesto mixture. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
5. Gradually add milk, stirring until desired consistency is reached.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Three-Cheese Kraft Macaroni with Gouda and Swiss
Elevate a classic comfort food by combining the creaminess of three cheeses – Cheddar, Gouda, and Swiss. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gouda cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pot, combine milk, Cheddar, Gouda, and Swiss cheeses. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
4. Add butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mac and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers with Kraft
A creative twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe stuffs bell peppers with a creamy Kraft Macaroni & Cheese filling for a flavorful and colorful main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Kraft Macaroni & Cheese according to package instructions, substituting milk for water. Stir in butter until melted.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the macaroni mixture, filling to the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Kraft Macaroni Style
Loaded Baked Potato Kraft Macaroni Style Recipe
This hearty recipe combines the comfort of a baked potato with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy, cheesy crust.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
4. While the potatoes are baking, mix the Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner mix with milk and butter in a bowl until smooth.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and slice them open lengthwise.
6. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture over the potato flesh, followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Top with crumbled bacon, if using.
8. Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Kraft Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting macaroni dish gets a boost from sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup Kraft Mac and Cheese mix
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
6. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni, caramelized onions, and Kraft Mac and Cheese mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated Gruyère cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Kraft Macaroni Bake
Spinach and Artichoke Kraft Macaroni Bake: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic!
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, spinach, artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Kraft Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this spicy twist featuring buffalo cauliflower. A creamy blend of Kraft macaroni and cheese, crispy buffalo cauliflower, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups Kraft macaroni and cheese
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Kraft macaroni and cheese with 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.
5. Add buffalo cauliflower to the mac and cheese mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and buffalo cauliflower mixture. Season with additional hot sauce if desired.
7. Serve immediately, topped with crumbled blue cheese for extra flavor (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Reuben-Inspired Kraft Macaroni with Corned Beef
Elevate your mac ‘n cheese game with the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich! This comforting dish combines tender corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese with creamy Kraft macaroni for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni
– 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Kraft Macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, diced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, milk, and butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Kraft Mac and Cheese with Lime Crema
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese game with a smoky twist, featuring chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This creamy, spicy masterpiece is topped with a zesty lime crema for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Kraft macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime crema (see below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Add chopped chipotle peppers and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Lime Crema
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your macaroni and cheese game with these 20 creamy Kraft recipe variations! From classic comfort food to bold and adventurous twists, there’s something for everyone. Try adding spicy jalapeños or smoky chipotle peppers for a kick, or go big with loaded bacon and cheddar or buffalo chicken. You can even add some sophistication with truffle oil or lobster and herb. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy your mac and cheese cravings.