Kraft Macaroni Dinner
A creamy, savory baked macaroni dish with ham, Swiss cheese, and herbs, perfect for comforting weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The combination of cheese, eggs, and onions creates a rich texture, while the baked top adds a delightful golden crust. Suitable for all ages and hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the Kraft dinner as directed on the package.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese packet, milk, eggs, chopped onion, chopped ham, and parsley.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with grated Swiss cheese.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or a dollop of sour cream. You can swap the Swiss cheese for cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor. Fresh herbs like chives or thyme can enhance the dish. If you're in a hurry, pre-cooked ham or leftover meats work well. This dish can also be modified to suit preferences, similar to a Crunchy Ham Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great as a standalone meal, but consider serving it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light soup. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a meat dish. You can also garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch.
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 (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but for best texture, reheating in the oven is recommended.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kraft Macaroni Dinner contains roughly 438 calories, with 27g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (188% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (102% of the Daily Value), and potassium (86% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, transfer them to the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for the eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the dish moist.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
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).