Is vegan mac and cheese better than the classic? We tried 6 boxes.

The spiral-shaped noods proved to be an asset for this standout. “Fun to have curly pasta,” enthused one taster. And the shape allowed for the sauce to cling nicely, one noted, unlike on some of the others, where thin coatings had little to grip. “I like the chew,” said a fan. Also putting it above the competition was a more sophisticated vibe, thanks to its natural-looking white-cheddar-like color and what several people thought was a just-right amount of salt. Tasters appreciated that it had a little “tang” and sharpness. “Maybe a little garlicky?” one suggested. And it didn’t make some crave a condiment to liven things up. “I could eat this on its own, which is saying something,” said one. “This tastes more elevated than the others — fancier, which I like,” one summed up. (Price: $4.69/5.25 ounces at Target)

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