Andy Montoya
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food for many. It's a simple yet decadent dish that combines butter, cheese, and pasta to create a heavenly meal. While it's a staple in many restaurants, you can also find boxed macaroni and cheese in various stores. These convenient options are perfect for a quick, easy meal at home. Many stores in the USA, such as Walmart, offer a wide range of macaroni and cheese products, including well-known brands like Kraft, Annie's, and Velveeta. With prices ranging from $0.33 to $5.99, there's a mac and cheese option for every budget. However, as some reviews indicate, not all products may live up to expectations when it comes to taste and texture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Stores | Walmart |
| Macaroni and Cheese Brands | Kraft, Annie's, Daiya, Cracker Barrel, Goodles, Velveeta, Banza, Cheetos, Beecher's, Great Value |
| Product Types | Microwavable Cups, Boxes, Frozen Microwave/Oven Safe Trays |
| Price Range | $0.33 - $17.76 |
| Customer Reviews | Positive: Creamy, tasty, easy to prepare, good value for money. Negative: Bland, grainy texture, flavorless, poor consistency, unappetizing appearance |
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What You'll Learn
Kraft Mac & Cheese
The original Kraft Mac & Cheese recipe from the 1980s and 1990s is remembered fondly by many. It was known for its distinct savoury cheese flavour and tanginess. Some consumers have noted that they preferred the older recipe, as they felt that the newer versions lacked the same cheesy tang. The newer recipe has been described as milder, sweeter, and less savoury.
The product has also undergone some changes in its appearance and texture. One notable difference is the colour of the cheese powder, which is not as orange as it used to be. The texture of the pasta has been a topic of discussion as well, with some consumers reporting it to be softer and starchier.
Despite the recipe changes, Kraft Mac & Cheese continues to be a go-to option for those seeking a quick and comforting meal. It is available in various forms, including the beloved Blue Box, which is a favourite among many consumers. The brand has also introduced fun shapes, such as SpongeBob characters, to delight fans of all ages.
For those who prefer a more indulgent experience, Kraft offers the Deluxe version, which promises a deliciously creamy take on the classic. Additionally, Kraft Mac & Cheese serves as a versatile ingredient, as it can be used in grilled cheese sandwiches or as a filling for other dishes. With its convenience, comforting taste, and versatility, Kraft Mac & Cheese has earned its place as a staple in the pantries of many.
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Walmart's Mac & Cheese options
Walmart offers a variety of mac and cheese options to satisfy your comfort food cravings. From classic favourites to unique flavour twists, you can find convenient and affordable choices at Walmart. Here are some of the mouth-watering mac and cheese options available:
First up is the Kraft Original Mac & Cheese, a classic choice for mac and cheese lovers. This product comes in an 11 oz box and is shelf-stable, making it convenient for storage. The price per box ranges from $1.44 to $6.48, offering a budget-friendly option for those who want a quick and tasty meal.
For those who want a more indulgent experience, Travis Kelce's Kitchen Burnt Ends Mac & Cheese is a great choice. This option is fully cooked and ready to heat, making it a convenient choice for a quick meal. The 16 oz tray is available in the refrigerated section, ensuring freshness. The price per ounce is 57.6 cents, making it a slightly more expensive but tempting option.
If you're looking for a smaller portion or an on-the-go option, Kraft Original Mac & Cheese Cups are a perfect choice. These easy microwavable dinners come in an 8 ct box with each cup containing 2.05 oz of mac and cheese. The cups are shelf-stable, making them great for stocking up your pantry. Prices for this convenient option range from $1.54 to $17.76.
For a flavour twist, you can try the Velveeta Shells and Cheese Original Mac N Cheese. This product comes in a 3 ct pack with 12 oz boxes, offering a generous portion. The price per ounce is 21.8 cents, making it a great value option for those who want a comforting meal without breaking the bank.
Lastly, for a unique barbecue flavour, there's the Kraft Smoky Barbecue Flavored Mac & Cheese. This option comes in a 7.25 oz box and is shelf-stable. With prices ranging from $1.54 to $17.76, it's an affordable way to switch up your mac and cheese game.
So, whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, Walmart has a mac and cheese option to satisfy your cravings. These convenient and affordable choices offer something for everyone, ensuring you can enjoy this comfort food whenever the craving strikes.
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Cheetos Mac & Cheese
The product seems to have sparked curiosity among consumers, with some being intrigued enough to purchase it despite mixed reviews. Some people who have tried Cheetos Mac & Cheese have expressed their disappointment, describing it as disgusting and mentioning issues with texture and taste. They recommend sticking to traditional Mac & Cheese options or adding Cheetos to those instead.
On the other hand, some consumers have found certain varieties quite enjoyable, especially the Jalapeno Cheddar version. This variety seems to be a popular choice for those who like to customise their Mac & Cheese, as it can be mixed with regular cheddar and topped with shredded cheese and Cheeto 'dust' for an inexpensive and satisfying meal.
The Flamin' Hot variety appears to be a polarising flavour, with some people enjoying the spot-on taste replication of the Flamin' Hot Cheetos, while others find it disconcerting and experience similar gut issues as with the original Cheetos Mac & Cheese. It seems that consumers who are already fans of adding Cheetos to their Mac & Cheese are more likely to appreciate the Cheetos-branded product.
Overall, Cheetos Mac & Cheese has received mixed reviews, with some consumers loving the creative flavours while others prefer to stick to more traditional options. It is available at various retailers, giving consumers the option to try it out and form their own opinions on this unique take on a classic dish.
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Gluten-free options
There are a variety of gluten-free pasta options available at stores in the USA, including Walmart, Amazon, and Gluten-Free Mall. These stores offer gluten-free pasta made from different base ingredients such as rice, yellow peas, edamame, and legumes like lentils.
For gluten-free macaroni and cheese, one option is to purchase gluten-free pasta and prepare it with cheese. Amazon offers a range of gluten-free pasta brands, including Taste Republic, whose fusilli pasta is versatile and can be used with any sauce. Similarly, Capello's spinach and cheese ravioli, also available on Amazon, is a good option for stuffed pasta.
Walmart offers a variety of gluten-free pasta options, including edamame spaghetti and pre-cooked Konjac Shirataki noodles in various shapes like fettuccine and spaghetti.
Gluten-Free Mall specializes in gluten-free products and offers trusted brands like King Soba and Le Veneziane. They have a range of pasta shapes, including spaghetti, lasagna, fettuccine, Asian-style noodles, and macaroni.
Additionally, there are some pre-packaged gluten-free macaroni and cheese options available. Kraft offers a certified gluten-free version of their classic macaroni and cheese, which has received positive reviews for its taste and texture, closely resembling that of regular wheat macaroni noodles. However, other options like Thrive Market's organic gluten-free mac and cheese and Super Fat keto mac and cheese have received mixed reviews for their texture and flavor. Annie's also offers a gluten-free option with red lentil spirals and a well-flavored sauce, although the thick and chewy texture may not appeal to everyone.
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Vegan Mac & Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, but it's not always easy to find vegan options. Luckily, there are several recipes for vegan mac and cheese that are just as delicious as the traditional dish. Here is a guide to making vegan mac and cheese, including a classic recipe and some tasty variations.
Classic Vegan Mac & Cheese
The key to a good vegan mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy sauce. One way to achieve this is with a vegan béchamel sauce, flavoured with nutritional yeast, which has a naturally cheesy taste. You can also add vegan cheese shreds, such as Follow Your Heart cheddar, for extra cheesiness. To make the sauce, simply blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Then, cook your favourite variety of pasta according to the packet instructions. Finally, stir the sauce through the cooked pasta, and top with breadcrumbs and melted vegan butter before baking in the oven.
Variations
There are endless ways to adapt this classic recipe. For a healthier option, try adding steamed cauliflower along with the pasta, and shredded carrots to the sauce for a more orange colour. You can also replace the water in the sauce with coconut milk or soy milk for a richer dish. If you like your mac and cheese spicy, add a can of green chillies and some jarred jalapeños.
For a completely different take on the dish, try a butternut squash and cashew nut sauce, or a sweet potato sauce. These recipes are perfect if you're looking for a nut-based sauce that doesn't require any cooking. Simply blend the ingredients and toss with your cooked pasta.
Tips
- The sauce can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free pasta.
- The sauce freezes well, so it's a good idea to make a big batch and freeze some for a quick and easy meal.
- This dish is delicious served with vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or mushroom bacon.
- If you're not baking your mac and cheese, reduce the water in the sauce to make it thicker and creamier.
Vegan mac and cheese is a tasty and versatile dish that can be adapted in numerous ways to suit your taste and dietary requirements. With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can enjoy a comforting and delicious meal that's completely vegan!
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