Go Back

Sloppy Joes and Kraft Mac & Cheese

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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes

Jump To

IngredientsMethodVideoNotes

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:

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

Mac and Cheese Instructions:

  1. 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.
  2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pan.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted.
  4. 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.