Kids Kraft Mac & Cheese Recipe

Bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium pot over high heat. Stir in 1 tsp salt.

Add 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (typically 7–9 minutes) until just tender (al dente) for best texture for kids. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.

In the same (now-empty) pot or a clean medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat until foaming but not browned.

Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute to make a smooth roux; this removes the raw flour taste and will thicken the sauce.

Slowly pour in 1.5 cups whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently, about 3–4 minutes.

Reduce heat to low and whisk in 2 tbsp softened cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated; this creates extra creaminess.

Remove the pot from heat. Add 1.5 cups shredded mild cheddar and 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until smooth and melted. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in up to 2 tbsp of the reserved pasta water to reach desired pourable consistency.

Stir in 0.5 tsp mustard, 0.5 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning gently for kids (less salt/pepper if desired).

Return the drained macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat all pasta evenly. If needed, warm over very low heat for 30–60 seconds while stirring — do not boil.

If using breadcrumbs: mix 1/4 cup breadcrumbs with 1 tsp melted butter. Sprinkle over the mac & cheese and, if desired, place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast (watch carefully) or toast breadcrumbs in a small skillet until golden and then sprinkle on.

For garnish and mild flavor: sprinkle chopped parsley, or add a tiny dash of hot sauce or cayenne to adult portions only. Stir gently to combine if adding.

Serve warm in kid-sized portions. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.