Irresistibly Delicious Kraft Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef

Kraft Mac and Cheese with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food — simple, affordable, and loved by the whole family. This recipe is my go-to when the weather turns colder, and everyone’s craving a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. It’s more than a meal; it’s a nostalgic nod to childhood dinners and the kind of no-fuss cooking my grandmother swore by.

With just a few pantry staples, including that iconic blue box of Kraft mac and cheese and a pound of seasoned ground beef, you can whip up a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making it skillet-style or baking it into a bubbling casserole, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Kraft Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
• Versatile: Make it spicy, cheesy, BBQ-style, or taco-seasoned.
• Kid-Approved: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor kids adore.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 boxes of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
• 1 lb ground beef (lean is best)
• ½ onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra cheesiness)
• ½ cup milk (as per box instructions)
• 4 tbsp butter (as per box instructions)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional add-ins:
  • 1 cup frozen peas or corn
  • 1 tsp paprika or chili powder
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (for BBQ twist)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (for taco version)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Kraft Macaroni

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the macaroni from both boxes and cook for 7–8 minutes, or until tender.
3. Drain and return to the pot.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the chopped onions and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until softened (optional).
4. Season with salt, pepper, or your chosen seasoning (taco, BBQ, or chili powder).

Step 3: Combine and Cheese It Up

1. In the pot with drained pasta, add the butter and milk.
2. Stir in the Kraft cheese powder from both boxes.
3. Once creamy, add the beef mixture and shredded cheddar.
4. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Serve or Bake

• For a quick skillet dinner: Serve immediately while hot.
• For a baked casserole:
  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Pour mac and beef mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  • Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Variations to Try

🌮 Taco Mac and Cheese

Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning with the beef, then add the black beans and corn, mixing everything together. Finish with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips and a spoonful of sour cream on top

🔥 Spicy Beef Mac

Use pepper jack cheese and mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce. It’s perfect for heat-lovers!

🥓 BBQ Mac Casserole

Stir in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce into the beef mixture. Top with cooked bacon crumbles and serve with a side of coleslaw.

🧀 Extra-Cheesy Baked Mac

Layer the top with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar, and bake until golden brown.

Tips for Success

• Opt for lean ground beef to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.
• Add milk slowly to achieve your preferred creaminess.
• For added protein, mix in cooked lentils or beans.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3–4 days and reheated in the microwave.

FAQs About Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipes with Ground Beef

Can I use one box of Kraft Mac & Cheese?

Yes, but you’ll want to halve the ground beef to about ½ lb. This version is great for smaller households.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Let the baked version cool completely, wrap in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this without baking?

Yes! The skillet version is just as delicious and perfect for busy nights.

What cheese works best for topping?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend are all great choices for melty goodness.

Make It a Meal

Serve with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. Garlic bread or cornbread also pair wonderfully with this hearty Kraft mac and cheese with ground beef recipe.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is more than just a dinner — it’s a trip down memory lane, a family favorite, and a reminder that simple pantry staples can turn into magic. Whether you enjoy it in a bubbling casserole dish or straight from the skillet, it’s sure to become part of your regular rotation.