Kraft Dinner Casserole
A comforting casserole combining cheesy macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and tomatoes, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners and satisfying hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with salt and pepper, chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked beef mixture.
- Cook macaroni from the Kraft dinner according to package instructions.
- Add cooked macaroni, stewed tomatoes, and the Kraft dinner cheese packet to the ground beef mixture.
- Stir everything together well.
- Tear up several slices of cheese and incorporate into the mixture.
- Stir again to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with sliced cheese and bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding garlic and bell peppers to the sautéed onions. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked shredded chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils instead. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Kraft Dinner Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like Green Beans With Dill for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or biscuits for a comforting dinner. Consider topping with extra cheese or fresh herbs before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraft Dinner Casserole contains roughly 415 calories, with 11g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 950mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for 1-2 days. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking.
What can I use instead of Kraft dinner?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute Kraft dinner with whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Just cook the pasta separately and mix it with the other ingredients. This will maintain the creamy texture without the processed cheese powder.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).