Randy Chandler
Macaroni and cheese is a popular, kid-friendly meal in the US. Kraft Mac and Cheese is a common variety of this dish. Depending on how it's prepared, mac and cheese can be an energy-dense food. For example, a 7.25oz box of Kraft Mac and Cheese contains around 750 calories when prepared without butter or milk. The calorie count is even higher when prepared with these ingredients. Kraft Mac and Cheese also contains wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate, milkfat, and other ingredients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories per serving | 350 |
| Calories per half box | 350 |
| Calories per full box | 700 |
| Calories per 2.5 oz | 250 |
| Calories per cup of homemade mac and cheese | 506 |
| Calories in Stouffer's Macaroni and Cheese | 350 |
| Calories in Lean Cuisine Macaroni and Cheese | 300 |
| Calories in Amy's Organic Foods Macaroni and Cheese | 400 |
| Calories in Velveeta Shells and Cheese | 360 |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft Mac & Cheese calories: 350 per serving, 1050 per box
Kraft Mac & Cheese is a convenient and tasty meal option, but it's important to be mindful of its calorie content. A single serving of Kraft Mac & Cheese contains 350 calories. This calorie count is based on the suggested preparation method, which includes using 4 tablespoons of margarine and 1/4 cup of reduced-fat milk. With each box containing three one-cup servings, the total calorie count for the entire box adds up to 1050 calories.
It's worth noting that the calorie count can vary depending on how you prepare the dish. For example, if you choose to use butter instead of margarine, the calorie count will increase. One tablespoon of butter provides approximately 100 calories, significantly higher than the 81 calories in a tablespoon of margarine. Additionally, the type of milk used can also make a difference. Reduced-fat milk has 31 calories per 1/4 cup, while nonfat milk has even fewer calories, at just 21.
While Kraft Mac & Cheese can be a comforting and indulgent treat, it's essential to practice portion control and be aware of the calorie content, especially if you're watching your calorie intake. A single serving of 350 calories can be a significant part of a daily calorie budget, and it's easy to overeat if you're not careful.
To make Kraft Mac & Cheese a more nutritious option, you can experiment with different ingredients. For example, unsweetened almond milk is a low-calorie alternative to regular milk, with only 6 calories per 3 tablespoons. You can also try using plain Greek yogurt instead of butter or margarine to add creaminess to the dish while reducing the overall calorie count.
In conclusion, while Kraft Mac & Cheese is a convenient and tasty meal, it's important to be mindful of its calorie content. With 350 calories per serving and 1050 calories per box, it can be a high-calorie treat. However, by adjusting the preparation methods and being mindful of portion sizes, it is possible to enjoy this comfort food while still maintaining a balanced and healthy diet.
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Calories in Goodles Mac & Cheese: 600 per box
Goodles Mac & Cheese is a healthier alternative to Kraft mac and cheese. A box of Goodles Mac & Cheese contains 600 calories, whereas Kraft's typically contains 925 calories. Goodles is headquartered in Santa Cruz, California, and prides itself on making a "tastier, kinder, happier world".
Goodles Mac & Cheese is nutrient-packed, with 14 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, 21 plant-based nutrients, and real cheese. The noodles contain 10 times more fiber than regular noodles, with fiber sourced from chickpea flour. The noodles also contain wheat protein, which gives Goodles an extra protein kick and a springy, bouncy chew.
Goodles Mac & Cheese is made with natural ingredients, including white aged cheddar cheese, cultured milk, buttermilk, tapioca flour, and maple syrup. The cheese is made with disodium phosphate, which acts as an emulsifier to keep fat and water from separating, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. The product also contains lactic acid, annatto, paprika, and turmeric, which add flavor and color.
Goodles Mac & Cheese is a popular choice for those looking for a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Customers enjoy the flavor and find that it does not taste too cheesy or salty. It is also easy to cook and affordable, making it a great value for money.
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Stouffer's Mac & Cheese: 350 calories per serving
Mac and cheese is a popular comfort food for many, but it can be a calorie-dense dish. Kraft Mac and Cheese, for example, has 350 calories per one-cup serving. This is a relatively high-calorie count, and it's also important to note that the dish is high in fat and sodium.
Stouffer's Mac & Cheese is another popular option, and it contains slightly different ingredients, which may impact its nutritional value. A serving of Stouffer's Mac & Cheese contains 350 calories, which is the same as Kraft's version. However, Stouffer's product is made with freshly made pasta and 100% real cheddar cheese sauce, and it is then frozen.
The calorie count of 350 per serving is based on USDA data and is a useful guide for those watching their calorie intake. It's worth noting that the calorie count may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the serving. Stouffer's Mac & Cheese is a convenient option for those seeking a tasty, effortless meal, but it's always a good idea to check the nutritional information on the packaging and to practice portion control.
In terms of nutritional content, Stouffer's Mac & Cheese also contains 17g of fat, 7g of saturated fat, 34g of carbohydrates, 15g of protein, 2g of fiber, 2g of sugar, and 920mg of sodium. This information can be useful for those monitoring their intake of these specific nutrients.
When it comes to mac and cheese, it's a dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as a comforting treat. However, for those looking to reduce their calorie intake, there are some simple tweaks that can be made to the recipe. These include using lower-fat cheese, reducing the overall amount of cheese, and adding extra vegetables to increase volume and fiber while reducing calories.
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Lean Cuisine Mac & Cheese: 300 calories per serving
Kraft Mac and Cheese is a popular comfort food, but it is also high in calories, with 350 calories per one-cup serving. This calorie count is based on the suggested preparation method, which includes adding 4 tablespoons of margarine and 1/4 cup of reduced-fat milk. Kraft Mac and Cheese is also high in fat and sodium, with 11 grams of fat and 920mg of sodium per serving.
For those looking for a lower-calorie option, Lean Cuisine Mac & Cheese is a great alternative. It has 300 calories per serving, with 6 grams of fat, 48 grams of carbohydrates, 13 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, and 560mg of sodium. Lean Cuisine's Mac & Cheese is a frozen meal that can be prepared in under 6 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for lunch or a snack. It is also gluten-free and provides 15% of the daily value of calcium.
The key difference between Kraft Mac and Cheese and Lean Cuisine Mac & Cheese is in their nutritional content. Kraft Mac and Cheese is higher in calories, fat, and sodium, while Lean Cuisine's option offers a more balanced macronutrient profile with a lower overall calorie count.
Lean Cuisine achieves this lower calorie count by using a combination of skim milk, water, and different types of cheddar cheese to create a sauce that is both flavourful and lower in fat. The use of modified food starch also helps to create a satisfying texture without adding excessive calories. By opting for Lean Cuisine's Mac & Cheese, individuals can enjoy a comforting dish while staying on track with their wellness goals, as it fits within the daily calorie budget of 2,000 calories recommended for general nutrition.
In summary, Lean Cuisine Mac & Cheese offers a delicious and nutritious option for those seeking a lower-calorie mac and cheese. With 300 calories per serving, it provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthier alternative to traditional mac and cheese dishes.
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Amy's Organic Mac & Cheese: 400 calories per serving
Macaroni and cheese is a popular comfort food, but it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. Kraft Mac and Cheese, for example, contains 350 calories per one-cup serving. However, there are ways to tweak the recipe to make it healthier, such as by using low-carb pasta, low-fat cheese, or dairy alternatives.
Amy's Organic Mac & Cheese is a similar product that provides 400 calories per serving. This meal is made with organic elbow macaroni smothered in a smooth and creamy cheese sauce. The sauce is crafted with English Cheddar, made using fresh milk from the birthplace of Cheddar cheese in southwest England. The result is a sweet and clean-tasting cheese.
Amy's Organic Mac & Cheese can be prepared in a conventional oven or a toaster oven. To use a conventional oven, preheat to 375°F, remove the overwrap, place the tray on a baking sheet, and bake for 35-40 minutes. For a toaster oven, simply remove the overwrap and tray and place the product in an oven-safe dish, following the same temperature instructions.
The macronutrient breakdown of Amy's Organic Mac & Cheese is 47% carbohydrates, 36% fat, and 16% protein. It also contains organic low-fat milk, butter, organic sweet rice flour, sea salt, and organic annatto for color. This product is a good option for those seeking a classic, comforting meal with a slightly higher calorie count than similar products.
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Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of Kraft Mac and Cheese is 180g or about 3/4 cup. This serving contains 350 calories.
A 7.25oz box of Kraft Mac and Cheese contains 750 calories when prepared without butter or milk.
A serving of Kraft Deluxe Original Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese contains 320 calories.
Yes, you can tweak the Kraft Mac and Cheese recipe to lower calories, fat, and sodium while adding fibre and protein. For example, you can use milk alternatives and add vegetables.
