Here it is: the ratings and reviews for vast amounts of consumer macaroni products from none other than themacncheeseofficial himeself. Check in regularly for updates.
Flavor
The most important factor of any good mac'n cheese. This category influences a product's rating the most. We understand that there's more to mac'n cheese than just tasting good--but having a well-balanced flavor-profile definitely holds the most impact.
Texture
No one likes gummy pasta, mac'n cheese or otherwise. While this is a less relevant category for the boxed meals that you cook yourself, (at least, it should be) a mushy or crunchy macaroni can ruin an otherwise promising meal.
Consistency
Since all reviewed products are mass produced, they should taste the same if prepared under the same conditions. However, this isn't always the case, and while not as important as the other two categories, it can be annoying when your mac'n cheese doesn't come out as intended.
EXPERT'S CHOICE
#1 Boxed
Rating:
Made in the excellent shape of radiatore pasta, this box has surpassed expectations for flavor, texture, and is currently being tested for consistency (which it will likely score very high on, as the prep is extreamly minimal). It should be noted that this macaroni has a niche flavor profile, with a maltiness undertone that compiments the creaminess of the Cabot cheese and the slight hints of caramelized onion.
#1 Frozen
Rating:
It's hard to find frozen macaroni that can compete against boxed versions, at least if they are getting microwaved. However, this Stoffer's spicy nacho macaroni hits all the categories: delicious, with the right kiss of heat, along with a good consistency of noodles that doesn't get mushy and coats each macaroni nicely.
#1 Instant
Rating:
Everyone loves hamburger helper. And there could be some nostalgic bias when it comes to these singles, but they easily have the best flavor and texture out of any other instant mac on the market. Occasionally, the powder doesn't sit right in the microwave, causing a crunchy crust to sometimes form at the bottom of the cup, (we recommend stirring this one before cooking to mitigate this issue as much as possible) but like the corners on a baked macaroni, this crust is sometimes a welcome bonus.
