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Grandma's Kraft Dinner is the kind of recipe that takes you right back to the kitchen table as a kid. With just a few tweaks on the classic blue box, it turns an easy weeknight meal into something every generation can call comfort food.
I first made this on the last night of summer vacation. The Ritz cracker topping became an instant family tradition. Now it is my go to when comfort is needed quickly.
Ingredients
- Kraft Macaroni and Cheese: boxed macaroni is convenient and nostalgic you want the classic blue box for flavor
- Evaporated milk: delivers creaminess and a smooth texture pick unsweetened evaporated milk for best results
- Heavy whipping cream: richens the sauce and gives a luscious mouthfeel use fresh cream for dreamy results
- Butter: brings classic flavor and helps meld the cheese sauce use real butter not margarine
- Cheese sauce packets: from the box double down on the signature cheesy taste
- Onion powder: adds background flavor and savory depth try to choose a fresh bottle for best spice
- Garlic powder: lifts the sauce and rounds out flavors
- White pepper: gives gentle heat without overpowering important for balancing the cheese
- Chili powder: a pinch adds subtle warmth try mild chili powder if sensitive
- Grated American cheese: adds a stretchy gooey layer grate your own from a deli block for best melt and taste Land O Lakes slices are classic
- Crushed Ritz crackers: mixed with butter create a crispy golden topping these are optional but make the dish special
- Black pepper: freshly ground at serving brightens every bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Noodles:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add the boxed macaroni and cook until tender following the directions for your preferred texture. Do not rinse the noodles. Drain completely and return them to the hot pot to stay warm.
- Melt and Flavor the Sauce Base:
- While the noodles cook place the butter and evaporated milk in a small saucepan over very low heat. Slowly let the butter melt fully. Sprinkle in the onion powder garlic powder white pepper and a pinch of chili powder. Whisk gently to blend while warming through but do not let it bubble.
- Incorporate Cheese Sauce Mix:
- Whisk the two cheese sauce packets into your saucepan with butter and milk. Stir well to ensure all powder is completely dissolved and a smooth cheesy base forms.
- Add Heavy Cream:
- Pour heavy whipping cream into the saucepan and stir until just combined. Remove from heat so the sauce stays creamy and does not overcook.
- Combine Noodles and Cheese Sauce:
- Pour the warm cheese sauce mixture over the drained noodles in the pot. Stir steadily to coat every shell with creamy cheese. Grate almost all of your American cheese into the pot and fold to melt through. Reserve a bit of grated cheese for the topping.
- Make and Add Ritz Topping:
- Melt the extra tablespoon of butter in a small pan. Add the crushed Ritz crackers and toss until the crumbs are crisp and buttery. Sprinkle this over the top of the mac and cheese along with the extra grated American cheese for that signature finish.
- Bake to Finish:
- Transfer everything into a pie plate or small baking dish. Top evenly with reserved cheese and cracker crumbs. Bake in a 375 degree oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the crackers are golden and bubbles peek through the topping. Add a light sprinkle of dried parsley if you like.
- Serve:
- Dish up immediately and finish with a little black pepper on each portion.
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I always look forward to the buttery crispy Ritz crackers on top. My cousin used to scramble to be the first for seconds just to get the corner pieces crusted in crumbs.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If you need to reheat microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore that creamy texture stirring between intervals. For oven reheating cover with foil and warm at 325 degrees until heated through. The cracker topping may soften but you can broil for a minute to revive the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have American cheese you can sub mild cheddar or Colby Jack for a similar melt and flavor. No evaporated milk Use half and half or an extra splash of heavy cream as a quick swap. Gluten free versions of boxed macaroni and buttery crackers work just as well for those with dietary needs.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and cherry tomatoes for a complete meal. It is also a favorite alongside BBQ chicken or a bowl of tomato soup for an even cozier night. You can stir in peas ham or roast chicken if you want extra heartiness.
A Bit of Macaroni and Cheese History
The blue box Kraft Dinner was a lifesaver during tough times for many families. It was introduced in the late 1930s as a budget meal that fed a crowd. My grandmother always added her own touches to make it feel like a homemade treat. I can still remember her humming in the kitchen as she buttered the Ritz crackers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different brand of boxed macaroni?
Yes, any boxed macaroni and cheese can be used, but the classic Kraft box delivers a nostalgic taste that many prefer.
- → What's the purpose of evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk adds a rich, creamy texture that helps the cheese sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
- → Can I leave out the Ritz cracker topping?
Absolutely! The Ritz cracker topping is optional but adds a delicious crunch to the dish.
- → Is it possible to substitute American cheese with another type?
You may use cheddar or any favorite melting cheese, though American cheese gives a smooth, classic flavor.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- → Can this be made in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish ahead and bake before serving to ensure the topping stays crisp and fresh.