EV’s Take: Comfort Food Done Right
Daiya’s Cheddar Deluxe Mac & Cheese succeeds because it understands exactly what it’s trying to be. It’s not health food, and it’s not trying to be. It’s rich, creamy, salty boxed mac and cheese that’s perfect for a night when only comfort food will do.
The sodium and calories are definitely on the higher side, but nutritionally, it’s fairly comparable to other vegan (and dairy-based) boxed macs on the market. Compared to Banza’s vegan mac and cheese, Daiya tends to be lower in protein and fiber but wins on overall creaminess and classic comfort-food flavor.
If you’re looking for a vegan and gluten-free mac and cheese that actually feels satisfying, this is a perfect addition to your pantry. It’s also a great option as a side dish for vegan guests at summer cookouts.
All that to say, a little goes a long way. Pair this with roasted veggies or crispy tofu, and you’ll be a happy camper.
Daiya Cheddar Deluxe Mac & Cheese Ingredients
The cheese sauce relies on ingredients like coconut oil and starches to create its creamy texture, and the gluten-free pasta (made with brown rice) cooks up nicely without becoming mushy. Don’t let the coconut worry you; it doesn’t taste coconutty at all. There is a noticeable bitter aftertaste, but I think that comes with the territory of vegan cheese products. It’s not too pronounced, but it is why we docked a point.
Ingredients vary slightly by flavor, but commonly include:
Brown Rice Pasta, Water, Coconut Cream, Tapioca Starch, Potato Starch, Expeller Pressed Canola Oil, Salt, Natural Flavors, Yeast Extract, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Lactic Acid, Xanthan Gum, and Seasonings.
Daiya Deluxe Mac & Cheese Nutrition
| Serving Size | About 1 cup prepared |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Sodium | 510mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 49g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 4g |
Nutritionally, this lands firmly in comfort-food territory that we would enjoy occasionally, as opposed to having it on our regular rotation. The sodium is fairly high, and the protein is lower than some competitors like Banza, which uses chickpea pasta for a more protein-forward nutritional profile.
Still, for a vegan and gluten-free boxed mac, the overall nutrition is pretty standard for the category. And it actually tastes good. Plus, we all know calories don’t exist when it comes to mac & cheese.
How to Make Daiya Deluxe Mac & Cheese
This comes together very quickly on the stovetop. Boil the pasta, drain it, then stir in the included cheese sauce packet until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
The sauce blends smoothly without much effort, which helps make this feel closer to traditional boxed mac and cheese.
How Did EV Eat It?
We ate this freshly prepared straight from the stovetop without adding much else, though it would also work well with roasted broccoli, vegan sausage, or hot sauce mixed in.
It’s especially good when you’re craving classic comfort food and want something quick and reliable.
Where Can I Buy Daiya Deluxe Mac & Cheese?
Daiya products are widely available in major grocery stores and natural food markets. We’ve seen it at stores like Target, Whole Foods Market, and many standard supermarket chains. You can use Daiya’s store locator to find a retailer near you.
What Do You Think?
Have you tried Daiya Deluxe Mac & Cheese? Is it your favorite vegan boxed mac, or do you prefer another brand? Let us know in the comments!
