Are GOODLES a Good Alternative for Healthier Mac and Cheese?

October 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the brand's own testing, GOODLES was the first boxed mac and cheese to receive the Clean Label Project Purity Award, suggesting a higher standard of ingredient sourcing. But beyond the accolades, are GOODLES a good alternative for those seeking a healthier, more nutrient-dense version of this classic comfort food?

Quick Summary

This article analyzes whether GOODLES is a worthwhile substitute for traditional mac and cheese, comparing its nutritional profile, taste, and available options for health-conscious consumers. The analysis covers flavor, protein and fiber content, vegan and gluten-free offerings, and ingredient quality.

Key Points

Superior Nutrition Profile: GOODLES offers significantly higher protein and fiber content than traditional mac and cheese, making it more filling and beneficial for gut health.
Clean Label Ingredients: Unlike many conventional brands, GOODLES uses real cheese, non-GMO ingredients, and no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Plant-Based Nutrients: The noodles are infused with nutrients extracted from organic plants like broccoli, spinach, and kale, without impacting the cheesy flavor.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: GOODLES caters to specific dietary needs with dedicated vegan and certified gluten-free mac and cheese products.
Enhanced Flavor and Texture: Many customers praise the richer, more flavorful sauces and firmer, al dente pasta texture compared to standard boxed versions.
Higher Cost: A key consideration is the higher price point of GOODLES compared to traditional brands, which reflects its premium ingredients and nutritional value.

GOODLES vs. Traditional Mac and Cheese: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When evaluating a new product like GOODLES, it's essential to compare it directly with the standard bearers of the category. Traditional boxed mac and cheese is often criticized for its high sodium, low fiber, and artificial ingredients. GOODLES entered the market with a promise to change that, offering a "gooder" version packed with nutrients. The key differences lie in the pasta's composition and the ingredients used in the cheese sauce.

The Noodle: More Than Just Flour

The most significant departure from conventional mac and cheese is the noodle itself. While traditional versions use simple wheat flour, GOODLES incorporates chickpea protein and wheat protein to boost its nutritional value. This blend not only increases the protein content but also adds fiber and prebiotics derived from plants like kale, chlorella, and maitake mushrooms. This approach is a game-changer for a product category where nutritional density is typically an afterthought.

The Cheese Sauce: Real vs. Powdered

Many conventional boxed mac and cheese products use a powdered cheese mix with artificial colors and preservatives. GOODLES uses a real cheese blend and avoids artificial ingredients, relying on natural spices like paprika and turmeric for color. For those who prefer a liquid sauce, their Deluxe Mac line features squeezy cheese pouches, which many reviewers find to be creamier and bolder than the powdered versions.

Flavor and Texture: Do They Hold Up?

Taste is subjective, but many reviewers note that GOODLES successfully delivers on flavor and texture. The pasta often has a nuttier, firmer texture due to the chickpea protein, which some find more satisfying. GOODLES' array of unique flavors, from classic cheddar to more adventurous options like Here Comes Truffle and Hey Hey Elote, also sets it apart. While some traditional mac and cheese purists might notice the difference, most agree that GOODLES offers a delicious, elevated take on the classic dish.

A Better Alternative for a Healthier Diet

For those looking to improve their diet without giving up comfort foods, are GOODLES a good alternative? For many, the answer is yes. With significantly higher protein and fiber, plus added nutrients from plants, it provides a more filling and nutrient-rich meal than its conventional counterparts. This makes it a smart choice for busy professionals, health-conscious families, or anyone seeking a quick, satisfying meal with added benefits.

Comparison Table: GOODLES vs. Traditional Mac & Cheese


Feature	GOODLES (Example: Cheddy Mac)	Traditional Boxed Mac & Cheese (Example: Kraft)
Protein per serving	14-15g	~9g
Fiber per serving	6-7g	~2g (estimate)
Nutrient Fortification	Yes, 21 nutrients from plants	Often fortified with a few vitamins/minerals, but not from plant sources
Ingredients	Non-GMO, no artificial flavors, or preservatives	Often contains artificial colors and preservatives
Low Glycemic Index	Yes	No (typically high GI)
Flavor Variety	Wide range of flavors, including deluxe options	Limited standard flavors
Vegan & Gluten-Free	Yes, specific options available	Limited or no options
Clean Label Project	Yes, Purity Award recipient	No

The Cost of Healthier Eating

One potential drawback for some consumers is the price point. GOODLES are typically more expensive per box than traditional mac and cheese brands. This added cost reflects the use of higher-quality, non-GMO ingredients and the nutrient-packed formula. For many, the nutritional benefits and superior taste justify the expense, but for budget-conscious families, it could be a deciding factor. It's a trade-off between convenience, price, and nutritional value.

Conclusion: A Gooder Choice for Many

Ultimately, are GOODLES a good alternative? For those who prioritize nutrition, quality ingredients, and enhanced flavor, the answer is a resounding yes. GOODLES provides a genuinely "gooder" mac and cheese experience by significantly boosting protein and fiber content, adding plant-based nutrients, and avoiding artificial additives. While it comes at a higher price, the product delivers a more filling and satisfying meal without sacrificing the nostalgic comfort food experience. With vegan and gluten-free options available, GOODLES offers an inclusive and impressive alternative that appeals to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. While traditional mac and cheese will always have a place, GOODLES represents a forward-thinking, healthier evolution of a beloved classic. More information on their products can be found on the official website: www.goodles.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

GOODLES noodles are made with a blend of wheat flour, chickpea protein, and wheat protein. They are also infused with nutrients extracted from various organic plants like spinach, kale, and shiitake mushrooms.

Yes, all GOODLES mac and cheese flavors are vegetarian. They use real dairy for their cheese blends in the standard flavors, and have specific vegan options that use plant-based ingredients instead.

Yes, GOODLES offers gluten-free mac and cheese options, such as Gluten-Free Cheddy Mac and Gluten-Free Vegan Be Heroes, which are made with a different grain blend to ensure a quality texture and taste.

GOODLES contains significantly more protein and fiber than Kraft mac and cheese. For example, some GOODLES varieties offer 14-15g of protein and 6-7g of fiber per serving, while traditional Kraft contains around 9g of protein and much less fiber.

Yes, GOODLES mac and cheese products are classified as low glycemic index foods. This means they cause a smaller, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods.

The higher price of GOODLES is due to its use of higher-quality, non-GMO ingredients, added plant-based nutrients, and its enhanced protein and fiber content. The premium formulation justifies the added cost for many health-conscious consumers.

The Clean Label Project Purity Award is given after rigorous independent testing for over 400 contaminants. GOODLES receiving this award signifies that its products meet a high standard for ingredient sourcing and purity, setting it apart in the boxed mac and cheese category.