In the good old days, store-bought mac and cheese meant gluey noodles and fluorescent powder. But if you haven’t tried a box from the grocery store in a while, it’s officially time to expand your noodle horizons (and then invite us over for dinner). Here are the five best mac and cheeses in grocery stores right now.
The 5 Best Boxes of Mac and Cheese You Can Buy at the Grocery Store
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Published Feb 6, 2018
Ancient Harvest
Healthiest: Ancient Harvest Pow! Mild Cheddar Mac And Cheese
Usually, “healthy” and “mac and cheese” don’t belong in the same sentence. But with organic, non-GMO noodles made of quinoa and red lentil flour, this stuff packs in 16 grams of protein per serving. And did we mention it’s gluten-free?
Daiya
Best Vegan: Daiya Deluxe Cheddar Style Cheezy Mac
This stovetop mac reminds us of the Velveeta version we used to eat as kids, but with one important difference: It’s vegan and gluten-free. If you like your mac super gooey and saucy (but don’t want to eat a bunch of chemicals), this is the box for you.
Annie’s
Mac That Gives Back: Annie’s Mac And Trees
Any of Annie’s varieties are a solid choice, especially if you have hungry kiddos. But this eco-themed box funds school gardens through Annie’s Grants for Gardens program, donating $10,000 of its profits every year. Sold.
Buy the mac ($2)
Trader Joe’s
Best Value: Trader Joe’s Organic Shells And White Cheddar
Don’t get us wrong—this box from our favorite grocery store has a lot more going for it than just the price. But at just over $1 a box, it’s a steal, especially because it’s totally organic. Stock up.
Buy the mac ($1)
Back to Nature
Best Overall: Back To Nature Crazy Bugs And Cheddar Macaroni And Cheese
OK, the “crazy bugs” variety doesn’t taste any different than the Back to Nature elbows or shells, but it’s so darn adorable. This is the Mercedes of macaroni—it’s got everything. Certified organic, no artificial flavors or preservatives, and it’s hands down, the tastiest we’ve tried. Winner, winner, mac and cheese dinner.
Buy the mac ($1)
