Go Back

Sloppy Joes and Kraft Mac & Cheese

Print Recipe
Sloppy Joes and Kraft Macaroni & Cheese were iconic staples of the 1980s, representing the decade’s growing preference for convenience and comfort foods. Sloppy Joes are a hearty sandwich made with ground beef simmered in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, while Kraft Mac & Cheese provided a quick, creamy side dish with its signature bright orange cheese sauce.
Together, they embodied the fast-paced, budget-conscious cooking of American families during the era, offering both nostalgia and practicality.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

Sloppy Joes Recipe:

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner option
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 small green bell pepper finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mustard optional for tang
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 sandwich buns toasted

Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe:

  • Kraft 1 box Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Slopy Joes Instructions:

  • In a small skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Season with salt and pepper, and spoon the mixture onto a toasted bun.

Mac and Cheese Instructions:

  • Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the pasta from the box and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Drain the pasta and return it to the pan.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.
  • Pour in the cheese packet from the box and stir in 1/4 cup of milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Video

Notes

  • Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture for an extra kick of heat.
 
  • Customize the Mac & Cheese: Enhance the boxed version by stirring in shredded cheese, or mix in vegetables like peas or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
 
  • Healthier Options: For a leaner alternative, use ground turkey or chicken for the Sloppy Joes, and consider low-fat milk or a butter substitute in the mac & cheese.