Introduction
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that many of us love. But it can be hard to find a healthy version of this beloved dish. Fortunately, there are now many boxed mac and cheese options that are both delicious and nutritious. In this article, we will be looking at the five best healthy boxed mac and cheeses, according to dietitians. We will discuss the nutritional benefits of each option, as well as the taste and texture. So if you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy mac and cheese, read on to find out which boxed mac and cheese is right for you!
5 Best Healthy Boxed Mac & Cheeses, Say Dietitians — Eat This Not That
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that many of us love, but it’s not always the healthiest option. Fortunately, there are now plenty of healthy boxed mac and cheese options that are just as delicious as the original. We asked dietitians to share their favorite healthy boxed mac and cheese brands so you can enjoy this classic dish without the guilt.
Annie’s Homegrown Organic Macaroni & Cheese
Annie’s Homegrown Organic Macaroni & Cheese is a great option for those looking for a healthier version of mac and cheese. It’s made with organic pasta and cheese, and it’s free of artificial flavors, synthetic colors, and preservatives. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein.
Kraft Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese
Kraft Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese is another great option for those looking for a healthier version of mac and cheese. It’s made with real cheese and contains no artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or preservatives. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein.
Annie’s Homegrown Gluten Free Rice Pasta & Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Annie’s Homegrown Gluten Free Rice Pasta & Cheddar Mac & Cheese is a great option for those looking for a gluten-free version of mac and cheese. It’s made with rice pasta and real cheddar cheese, and it’s free of artificial flavors, synthetic colors, and preservatives. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein.
Annie’s Homegrown Shells & White Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Annie’s Homegrown Shells & White Cheddar Mac & Cheese is a great option for those looking for a healthier version of mac and cheese. It’s made with organic shells and real white cheddar cheese, and it’s free of artificial flavors, synthetic colors, and preservatives. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein.
Kraft Macaroni & Cheese with Veggies
Kraft Macaroni & Cheese with Veggies is a great option for those looking for a healthier version of mac and cheese. It’s made with real cheese and contains no artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or preservatives. Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein, and it’s packed with veggies like carrots, broccoli, and corn.
Every now and then the time comes when all you’re craving is a warm, creamy bowl of boxed mac & cheese. Not only is it delicious every time, but it’s an affordable meal as well. The only problem is that it’s hard to consume your favorite boxed mac & cheeses with confidence since most popular brands are filled with saturated fat, artificial colors, and low-quality ingredients.
Thankfully more and more brands are creating healthy boxed mac & cheeses for you to enjoy while still pursuing your personal health goals. To learn more, we talked with some expert dietitians about their favorites. Read on for their five recommendations, and for more, don’t miss 4 Cheese Brands to Stay Away From Right Now.
“This is the highest protein-packed mac and cheese we’ve found, with 14 grams of protein per serving. There are also 6 grams of fiber with prebiotics and 21 nutrients overall. It’s made with real cheese and is non-GMO, and has no artificial flavors or preservatives. So far, there is a 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, and people are really enjoying it as a healthy boxed mac & cheese,” says Courtney D’Angelo, MS, RD, author at Go Wellness.
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“Made with chickpea pasta, Banza mac and cheese packs 5 grams of fiber per serving! It also contains 15 grams of protein (without any added ingredients when prepared) and is lower in sodium at 640 milligrams per serving. To top it off, you also get 15% of your calcium needs and only 7 grams of fat, making this mac and cheese a win!” says Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD author of The Sports Nutrition Playbook and member of our expert medical board.
“Made with lentils, peas, and rice, this pasta is gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein and cheese! With 4 grams of fiber and 16 grams of protein per serving, it is sure to keep you feeling satisfied after your meal. Plus, it is lower in sodium with 600 mg per serving,” says Goodson.
“This mac and cheese is made with actual vegetables, made primarily with zucchini plus lentils. With 170 calories (which is pretty low) and 10 grams of protein per serving, this is a great way to get in some extra veggies! Plus, this pasta’s serving size is 1-1/4 cups, so you get to eat a little more for less!” says Goodson.
“This mac and cheese by Annie’s is not only organic, but it also contains cheese sourced from 100% grass-fed cows. For people with no dairy or gluten intolerances, this is an excellent choice. It has 9 grams of protein per serving, which will help keep you full. Annie’s Organic Grass Fed Mac & Cheese also uses wholesome ingredients with no artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or preservatives,” says D’Angelo.