Kraft Mac And Cheese Nutrition
Kraft mac and cheese nutrition can be different depending on the specific type of preparation method. Here is a breakdown of the general nutritional information for a cup serving of Kraft original mac and cheese prepared with milk and margarine.
- Calories 350Kraft Ma
- fat 11g (7.8g from saturated fat)
- sodium 518mg (22% of daily value)
- Carbohydrates 37.9g (13% of daily value)
- fiber 2.3g (9% of daily value)
- sugars 6.7g
- Protein 9g
Kraft Mac And Cheese Nutrition
- Calcium 14% of DAV
- Iron 4% DAV
- Potassium 5% DAV
These are general guidelines, and the actual nutrition can vary depending on the specific product and the preparation methods. You can find the exact nutrition for your specific product on the packaging.
Kraft offers a variety of mac and cheese Products, including some that are lower in fat level sodium, and calories. Be aware that a typical serving size is only one cup, but it’s easy to eat more than that.
Mac and cheese is not a particularly healthy food but can be enjoyed as an occasional treat. If you are looking for healthier options you can try making your mac and cheese with whole-heat pasta, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat-cheese.
What is Kraft Mac and Cheese?
Kraft and mac cheese, also known as a kraft dinner in Canada, is a well-known “Boxed” meal consisting of dried macaroni pasta and a packet of powdered cheese sauce mix. It’s known for its convenience, affordability, and cheesy flavor. While not considered particularly healthy.
Introduced in 1937, it remains a staple in many households affordable and tasty easy to prepare, which makes it a go-to option for busy times. Marketed as a quick and comforting meal solution often associated with childhood memories and nostalgic feelings. Generally moderate to high in calories, fat, and sodium lower in protein, fiber, and macronutrients compared to fresh ingredients.
Kraft Mack and Cheese Ingredients
The ingredients in Kraft mac and cheese may vary depending on the specific variety you choose, but here is a breakdown of the general ingredients for the classic original cheddar flavor.
Pasta
- Enriched wheat flour, niacin, Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid.
- Whole Wheat Flour
Cheese Sauce
- Whey
- Milk fat
- Salt
- Milk protein concentrate
- sodium triphosphate
- Tapioca Flour(2%)
- Citric acid
- Lactic acid
- Sodium Phosphate
- Calcium Phosphate
- Paprica, Turmeric, Annato(coloring)
- Enzymes
- Cheese Culture
Kraft and Mac Cheese Instructions
There are two main ways to prepare Kraft mac and cheese
Stovetop Instructions
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) Margarine or butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 (7.25 oz) box Kraft macaroni and cheese dinner any variety
Cooking Methods
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over high heat
- Add the macaroni to the boiling water and cook for 7-8 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally. Drain the pasta (do not rinse it) and return the drained pasta to the saucepan.
- Add the margarine or butter, milk, and cheese sauce mix to the pasta.
- Stir well until the cheese sauce is melted and coats the pasta evenly. Serve and enjoy
Microwave Instructions
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) Margarine or butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 (7.25 oz) box Kraft macaroni and cheese dinner any variety
Cooking Method
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the macaroni, water, margarine or butter, and milk.
- Microwave on HIGH for 11-13 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the macaroni is tender, stirring every 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cheese sauce mix until melted and coat the pasta evenly. Let stand for 1 minute before serving
Additional Tips
- For a creamier sauce, use whole milk instead of skim milk
- Add a sprinkle of your favorite shredded cheese for extra flavor
- Add chopped cooked vegetables, cooked groundnut meat, or other ingredients to customize your mac and cheese.
Does Kraft Mac and Cheese Expire?
Kraft Mac and Cheese technically doesn’t have an expiration but it does have a “Best before” Date printed on the box. This date serves as a guideline for optimal flavor and quality, not safety. While the pasta and cheese sauce mix is shelf-stable and unlikely to become unsafe past this date the taste and texture might degrade.
The ingredients in Kraft mac and cheese are shelf stable and highly unlikely to cause harm even after the “Best before” date. The low moisture content and processing prevent bacterial growth, making spoilage improbable.