The winner had the cheesiest tasting sauce.

Jacob Fox

We put nine boxes ofmac and cheeseto the test in the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen.

Find out which boxed mac was our favorite and why.

A display of eight different boxed macaroni and cheese brands arranged on a light blue background, showing a variety of packaging styles

Credit:Jacob Fox

We evaluated the boxed mac on flavor, texture, and if we’d buy the box again.

Overall, our reviewers wished this packed a little more flavor in each bite.

of this boxed option, they also noted an odd aftertaste.

A boxed macaroni and cheese product next to a plate of prepared macaroni and cheese

Credit:Jacob Fox

This mac earned back some points for its noodle texture.

But overall, our tasters wished this mac packed a bit more cheesiness.

Our Verdict: The noodle texture of this mac was spot on.

A box of macaroni and cheese next to a plate of the prepared dish

Credit:Jacob Fox

One commenter went back for seconds and loved the “chew” of the noodle.

Try adding a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to amp up the sauce.

Several commenters called out a “buttery mustard flavor.”

Box of macaroni and cheese labeled “Good & Gather organic,” next to a plate of cooked macaroni and cheese

Credit:Jacob Fox

The option earned raves for its extra creamy texture and curved noodle shape.

The elbow noodles do a nice job of holding the creamy sauce.

One reviewer shared that this “tastes likecheese crackersin a good way.”

A box of 365 brand macaroni and cheese next to a plate of the prepared dish

Credit:Jacob Fox

It earned points for its depth of flavor and silky, creamy texture.

Our Verdict: If you see this box on store shelves, pick it up.

We found it was a great option for cheese lovers or anyone who finds boxed mac a bit bland.

Box of macaroni and cheese next to a plate of prepared macaroni and cheese

Credit:Jacob Fox

In short, our tasters loved the nostalgic flavor and creamy texture of this mac and cheese.

Our Verdict: you’re free to’t go wrong with this option.

Reviewers loved the sharp cheddar cheese flavor, creamy sauce, and salt level.

A box of Goodles Cheddy Mac and a bowl of prepared macaroni and cheese next to it

Credit:Jacob Fox

The texture of the noodles slightly edged out the other options, with commenters remarking on the perfect chew.

You’ll be rewarded with a cheesy sauce that tastes natural and well seasoned.

A plate of macaroni and cheese beside a packaged macaroni and cheese box

Credit:Jacob Fox

Box of Kraft Mac & Cheese and a plate of prepared macaroni and cheese

Credit:Jacob Fox

Box of Annie’s macaroni and cheese next to a plate of served macaroni and cheese

Credit:Jacob Fox