We Ranked Instant Mac and Cheese Brands—Here’s the 6 Best and 5 Worst

Mac and cheese is one of the ultimate comfort foods, but not all instant versions are created equal. Some brands deliver rich, creamy, and cheesy perfection, while others fall flat with bland flavors and disappointing textures. Whether you want a quick meal or a nostalgic bowl of cheesy goodness, choosing the right brand makes all the difference. The best instant mac and cheese should have a smooth, flavorful sauce and pasta that holds its texture.

Annie’s Homegrown Shells & Real Aged Cheddar – Best

Annie’s is a top-tier pick for those who want mac and cheese with a more natural taste. Made with organic pasta and real aged cheddar, it has a more authentic flavor compared to the usual processed varieties. The shell-shaped pasta holds onto the creamy, tangy cheese sauce really well, making every bite satisfying. The sharper cheddar taste makes it feel a little more grown-up, but it still delivers the comfort food experience. However, it does take a little longer to cook than some other instant options, which might not be ideal for those in a rush. The sauce can also get a little clumpy if it is not mixed well, so it requires a little extra stirring. Overall, if you want a boxed mac and cheese that is closer to homemade, Annie’s is one of the best choices out there.

Goodles Cheddy Mac – Worst

Goodles is a newer brand that tries to offer a “healthier” version of mac and cheese, but the taste does not quite hit the mark. It is packed with added nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins, which is a nice idea, but the flavor suffers a bit. The cheddar has a sharper, more natural taste, which some people might enjoy, but it also has a slightly odd aftertaste due to the extra nutrients. The pasta holds up well and does not turn mushy, which is a plus, but the overall experience does not feel as indulgent as classic mac and cheese should. It is also noticeably more expensive than most boxed mac and cheese options, which could be a turn-off for some buyers. If you are looking for something that tastes just like the mac and cheese you grew up with, Goodles might not be the best pick.

Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Original – Best

Kraft is the classic that has been a staple in many households for decades. The bright orange cheese powder is instantly recognizable and delivers that creamy, nostalgic flavor that so many people love. It is one of the easiest and fastest to prepare, making it a great go-to meal for busy days or late-night cravings. While it is deliciously creamy, it definitely leans into artificial flavors, making it taste less like real cheese and more like a guilty pleasure. Some people find it too processed, while others love it for exactly that reason. Another plus is that it is one of the most budget-friendly options, making it an affordable comfort food. If you want something classic that reminds you of childhood, Kraft still holds its ground as one of the best.

Great Value Macaroni & Cheese – Worst

Walmart’s Great Value mac and cheese is one of the cheapest options, but unfortunately, it tastes like it too. The pasta is thinner and tends to get mushy fast, which makes the texture pretty disappointing. The cheese powder has a very mild flavor, lacking the rich, comforting taste you would expect from good mac and cheese. Mixing the sauce can also be a struggle, as it often turns out clumpy rather than smooth and creamy. The only real advantage is the price, making it an affordable choice for anyone on a tight budget. The portion size is generous for the cost, which is helpful when feeding a crowd. However, if you are looking for quality mac and cheese with bold flavor and a great texture, there are much better options out there.

Velveeta Shells & Cheese – Best

Velveeta takes instant mac and cheese to another level with its smooth, creamy cheese sauce instead of a powdered mix. The shells are perfect for catching all that rich, melty cheese, making every bite super satisfying. The sauce has a buttery texture and a bold, cheesy flavor that feels a little more indulgent than other brands. However, it is noticeably saltier than other options, which might not be for everyone. Some people also find the cheese sauce to be too processed and heavy, especially if they prefer a more natural taste. It is also one of the pricier options, so it might not be the best choice for those on a budget. If you are looking for the creamiest mac and cheese with a rich, velvety texture, Velveeta is the way to go.

Chef Boyardee Mac & Cheese – Worst

Chef Boyardee’s Mac & Cheese is a disappointment from the first bite. The pasta comes pre-cooked in a can, which gives it a mushy, almost slimy texture that does not hold up well. The cheese sauce is thin, watery, and lacks the creamy consistency you would expect from good mac and cheese. Instead of a rich, cheesy flavor, it has a bland and artificial taste that leaves much to be desired. Since it comes in a can, there is no way to tweak or enhance the flavor as you can with boxed versions. It might work in a pinch if you need something quick, but there are far better options for instant mac and cheese. Overall, it feels more like a last-resort meal than a comforting, cheesy dish.

Cracker Barrel Sharp Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese – Best

Cracker Barrel’s Sharp Cheddar Mac & Cheese delivers a rich, deep cheddar flavor that feels more like something you would get at a restaurant than from a box. The pasta has a firmer bite, which holds up well under the creamy, flavorful cheese sauce. Made with real cheese, it has a sharper, more mature taste that makes it stand out from brands that use powdery, artificial flavors. The texture is velvety and smooth, creating a well-balanced mix of creaminess and bold cheese flavor. It does take a little longer to cook compared to classic instant mac and cheese, but the extra time is worth it. The price is slightly higher than standard brands, but the quality makes it a worthwhile indulgence. If you are looking for an instant mac and cheese that tastes more like a homemade dish, Cracker Barrel is a great choice.

Great Value Thick & Creamy Macaroni & Cheese – Worst

Despite its name, Walmart’s Great Value Thick & Creamy Macaroni & Cheese does not live up to expectations. The cheese sauce is neither thick nor creamy, instead turning out runny and lacking flavor. The powder does not mix well, often leaving behind clumps or a grainy texture in the sauce. The pasta itself is lower quality, becoming overly soft and mushy after cooking. While it is one of the cheapest options, the trade-off is a lackluster taste and a disappointing texture. Some might appreciate the affordability, but even for a budget mac and cheese, it does not hold up against brands like Kraft or Velveeta. If you are looking for a creamy, flavorful mac and cheese, this is one to skip.

Trader Joe’s Wisconsin Cheddar Mac & Cheese – Best

Trader Joe’s Wisconsin Cheddar Mac & Cheese stands out with its rich, creamy, and well-balanced flavor. Unlike many boxed mac and cheese brands that rely on artificial ingredients, this one uses real Wisconsin cheddar, which gives it a bold and authentic cheese taste. The pasta holds its texture well and does not become too soft or mushy, making for a satisfying bite. The sauce is thick, smooth, and clings perfectly to the noodles, ensuring you get a creamy taste in every spoonful. While it is slightly pricier than budget options, the quality of ingredients makes it worth it. Some might find the cheddar a bit sharp, but that is what sets it apart from the overly processed flavors of other brands. If you want mac and cheese with a more premium taste without going fully homemade, Trader Joe’s version is an excellent pick.

Back to Nature Classic Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese – Worst

Back to Nature tries to offer a healthier take on mac and cheese, but unfortunately, it does not deliver on flavor. The cheese sauce is too mild, lacking the sharpness or richness that makes mac and cheese satisfying. The pasta has a grainier texture, which does not hold up well in the sauce, making each bite feel dry and underwhelming. While the brand avoids artificial ingredients, the final product tastes more like a bland pasta dish than a true mac and cheese. The sauce also has a slightly chalky aftertaste, which makes it even less enjoyable. It is one of the pricier boxed options, but the quality does not justify the cost. If you want a healthy mac and cheese that still tastes good, there are much better choices out there.

Banza Chickpea Mac & Cheese – Best

Banza Chickpea Mac & Cheese is a great option for those looking for a high-protein and gluten-free alternative without sacrificing flavor. The pasta, made from chickpeas, has a firmer texture that holds up well to the cheese sauce, unlike some gluten-free options that turn mushy. The sauce, made from real cheddar, is rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, giving it a more authentic taste than many other boxed varieties. It also has more protein and fiber than traditional mac and cheese, making it a slightly healthier choice. While the chickpea flavor is noticeable, it blends well with the cheese, making it a solid alternative for those looking to cut back on traditional pasta. It is a bit pricier than classic brands, but the better nutrition and quality ingredients make it worth it. If you want a mac and cheese that tastes good while offering a little extra nutrition, Banza is an excellent pick.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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