... Read moreOkay, so I finally gave in and picked up a box of that Mac Roni Creamy White Cheddar pasta I've been seeing around. You know, the one from the Rice Roni Makers – that instantly caught my eye because I'm a sucker for "The San Francisco Treat" brand. My initial thought was, 'Is this going to be another bland boxed mac and cheese, or will it actually live up to the creamy white cheddar promise?' I bought two boxes, just in case, because you never know when a craving will hit, and honestly, the packaging with that delicious-looking macaroni and cheese picture was pretty persuasive!
Cooking it was straightforward, just like most boxed pastas. Boil water, add pasta, drain, then stir in the sauce mix and milk/butter. The whole process took about 10 minutes, which is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or when you just need some comfort food without much fuss.
Now, for the unfiltered truth about the taste! When I first stirred in the sauce packet, it looked incredibly smooth and, well, creamy. The smell was definitely a mild, cheesy aroma, not too overpowering. The pasta cooked up nicely – not mushy, which is a big win for me. Each elbow noodle held its shape.
On to the flavor: The 'Creamy White Cheddar' aspect is definitely there. It's not super sharp or intensely cheesy like some artisanal mac and cheese, but it has a pleasant, mild white cheddar tang. What really stood out was the creaminess. It coated each piece of macaroni and cheese beautifully, making every bite feel indulgent. It wasn't watery or thin, which can sometimes be an issue with boxed varieties. It had a good, consistent texture.
Compared to other popular boxed mac and cheeses, I'd say this one holds its own. It's less aggressively flavored than some, which actually makes it a great base for additions. I've already thought about adding some cooked chicken, broccoli, or maybe a dash of hot sauce next time to kick it up a notch. But even on its own, it’s a solid, comforting bowl.
So, back to the original question, 'What are your thoughts on this?' My unfiltered answer is: I'm pleasantly surprised! It delivered on its promise of being creamy and having a noticeable white cheddar flavor. It's definitely a convenient and tasty option for a quick meal. If you're looking for an easy, comforting mac and cheese that isn't overly processed-tasting and has a good creamy consistency, I'd say give this Mac Roni Creamy White Cheddar pasta a try. Especially if you're a fan of The San Francisco Treat products, like me, you might find yourself adding it to your regular grocery list. I'd love to hear if anyone else has tried it and what your personal experiences were!