Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, and boxed versions make it incredibly easy to enjoy at home. But not all boxed mac and cheese is created equal. Many popular brands contain high amounts of sodium, saturated fat, preservatives, and artificial dyes—making them less than ideal for your health. Here are some of the worst boxed mac and cheese brands to watch out for.
Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese
Kraft may be the most iconic name in boxed mac and cheese, but the Original flavor isn’t doing your health any favors. A single serving (about one cup prepared) contains roughly 720 mg of sodium, and most people eat more than one serving per meal. The bright orange color also comes from artificial dyes like Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, which have raised health concerns over the years. While it’s convenient and nostalgic, it’s not the healthiest choice on the shelf.
Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original
Velveeta’s Shells & Cheese is known for its ultra-creamy texture, but that comes at a price. One serving of Velveeta Shells & Cheese Original packs around 12 grams of fat, including 4.5 grams of saturated fat, and nearly 900 mg of sodium. The cheese sauce is processed and contains artificial ingredients and preservatives. This version is heavier and greasier than most, making it one of the least healthy options in the boxed pasta aisle.
Annie’s Four Cheese Macaroni & Cheese
While Annie’s has built a reputation for more natural ingredients, the Four Cheese Macaroni & Cheese variety isn’t as innocent as it seems. This product contains significantly more fat and sodium than Annie’s classic version, with a heavy cheese blend that bumps up the calorie count. A single serving contains over 10 grams of fat and 700 mg of sodium, making it a less-than-ideal option for those watching their salt and saturated fat intake.
Cracker Barrel Macaroni & Cheese Sharp Cheddar
Cracker Barrel’s boxed mac and cheese might seem like a premium version, but the Sharp Cheddar flavor is one of the richest—and unhealthiest—options out there. With 320 calories per serving, plus 13 grams of fat and nearly 850 mg of sodium, it’s more indulgent than most people expect. It also contains added preservatives and thickeners, which contribute to its processed nature. It’s rich and flavorful but best reserved for the occasional treat.
Stouffer’s Classic Macaroni & Cheese (Frozen Alternative)
Though not boxed, many consumers compare Stouffer’s frozen mac and cheese to boxed options in terms of convenience. Unfortunately, it’s one of the most calorie-dense versions out there. A single tray of the classic version can contain 500+ calories, 22 grams of fat, and well over 1,000 mg of sodium. Its creamy taste masks a heavy dose of unhealthy ingredients.
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