Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, only to end up with a mediocre meal that leaves everyone wanting more? Look no further! As busy weeknights can be overwhelming, it’s essential to have some quick and easy recipes up your sleeve. And what better way to do so than with the help of Kraft products? In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy Kraft recipes that are sure to become staples in your household.
From comforting macaroni and cheese to savory casseroles and pasta dishes, these recipes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to serve up a delicious meal without sacrificing too much time or effort. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking to mix things up with some creative twists, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe and provide step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips for making these dishes come together. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to elevate your weeknight cooking routine!
Kraft Mac and Cheese with Bacon and Peas
Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese recipe by adding crispy bacon and sweet peas for a delightful twist. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner and 2 cups of water. Stir over medium heat until the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
3. Add the crumbled bacon and frozen peas to the cheese sauce. Stir until the peas are thawed and the mixture is well combined.
4. Gradually add the milk, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large serving bowl.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 15-20 minutes
– Total time: 25-30 minutes
Kraft Dinner Stuffed Peppers
Kraft Dinner Stuffed Peppers: A creative twist on a classic comfort food!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 package Kraft Dinner (macaroni and cheese)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon or substitute
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Kraft Dinner according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked macaroni, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the Kraft Dinner mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the cheese.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Kraft Cheese and Broccoli Casserole
Classic Kraft Cheese and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
This comforting casserole combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen broccoli florets, thawed
– 2 cups shredded Kraft Cheddar Cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Kraft Cheddar Cheese until melted.
7. In a separate baking dish, combine broccoli and cheese sauce.
8. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kraft Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Get ready for a creamy, cheesy twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak! This easy-to-make pasta dish combines the flavors of sautéed beef, onions, and bell peppers with Kraft’s iconic Philadelphia Cream Cheese spread.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kraft Three-Cheese Chicken Bake
This classic casserole recipe combines the flavors of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese with juicy chicken and pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup Kraft Three-Cheese Shredded Cheese Blend (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan)
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cheese blend, cream of chicken soup, milk, and parsley. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Kraft Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
In just a few minutes, you can have a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. This recipe combines the classic flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce with the convenience of Kraft products.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 jar Kraft Creamy Garlic Pasta Sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Kraft Parmesan Cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the Kraft Creamy Garlic Pasta Sauce and stir to combine with the oil.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan Cheese on top of the pasta and stir until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet
Get ready to devour a deliciously cheesy and flavorful meal with this easy-to-make Kraft Cheesy Taco Pasta Skillet!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups Kraft Mexican Style Cheese Sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken or ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken or ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the Kraft Mexican Style Cheese Sauce and diced tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce mixture; stir until well coated.
6. Top with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kraft Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with a creamy and comforting bowl of Kraft Loaded Baked Potato Soup, packed with the flavors of baked potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups potato soup mix
– 4 cups milk
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the potato soup mix and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Add the crumbled bacon and butter to the pot, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Spinach and Artichoke Dip Pasta
This recipe combines the classic flavors of spinach and artichoke dip with pasta, creating a rich and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 (14.5 oz) jar Kraft Spinach and Artichoke Dip
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the Kraft Spinach and Artichoke Dip, diced chicken, and chopped spinach. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated with the dip mixture.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This casserole combines the flavors of beef, rice, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of Kraft Three Cheese Blend
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the Kraft Three Cheese Blend evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kraft Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
This creamy macaroni and cheese dish gets a spicy kick from Kraft Buffalo Chicken flavor. Perfect for a comforting meal or snack, this recipe combines the classic comfort food with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cooked, diced chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
– 1/4 cup Kraft Buffalo Chicken Sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pot, combine milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Heat until melted and smooth.
3. Add cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, and paprika to the cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the buffalo chicken mixture. Toss until coated.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Ham and Potato Bake
A comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of ham, potatoes, and cheese to create a satisfying and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package Kraft Potato Salad
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine Kraft Potato Salad, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour the milk-butter mixture over the potato mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kraft Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a rich cream sauce with penne pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 package Kraft Penne Pasta (12 oz)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add chopped basil to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in cooked pasta, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
This classic lasagna recipe combines the flavors of creamy alfredo sauce, cooked chicken, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Kraft Alfredo Sauce
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet until fully cooked, then set aside.
3. In a separate pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of the Alfredo sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 3-4 lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of cooked chicken, and finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Kraft Sausage and Peppers Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of Kraft sausage with sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 package Kraft Original Sausages, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced Kraft sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and creamy casserole that combines the flavors of broccoli, rice, and cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 package Kraft Broccoli Rice Mix
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pot, combine frozen broccoli and 1/4 cup water. Heat until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, Kraft Broccoli Rice Mix, cooked broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add milk and butter to the mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Pour the casserole mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kraft Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Get ready to savor a flavorful and satisfying meal with this Kraft Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta recipe! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 jar Kraft Creamy Pesto Sauce (14.5 oz)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add Kraft Creamy Pesto Sauce to the same skillet and stir to combine with any remaining chicken juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese in the skillet. Toss until well coated with pesto sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This casserole combines the flavors of tuna, cheese, and noodles in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as macaroni or egg noodles)
– 1 can Kraft Tuna Noodle Casserole Mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine casserole mix, milk, and water. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles and butter to the mixture. Stir until noodles are evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kraft Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and al dente pasta. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 jar Kraft Garlic Butter Spread
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of Kraft Garlic Butter Spread over medium heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter mixture, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kraft Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad combines the flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or main course. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup Kraft Ranch Dressing
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ranch dressing, and crumbled bacon. Toss until well coated.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a delicious and easy meal solution with these 20 Kraft recipe hacks! From classic mac and cheese to stuffed peppers, casseroles, and pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone. These quick and tasty recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a break from cooking. Try adding bacon and peas to your Kraft Mac and Cheese, or stuffing bell peppers with Kraft Dinner. There’s also a cheesy taco pasta skillet, loaded baked potato soup, and many more mouthwatering options to spice up your dinner routine.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
