Mac ‘n’ cheese in tub simple and delicious but overpriced

Good things do come in tubs, it turns out.

Most members of The Spokesman-Review Food Panel raved about the flavor of Country Crock’s Deluxe Side Dishes Macaroni and Cheese.

Preparation couldn’t be easier. Pop the tub in the microwave for five minutes. Stir. Eat.

According to the directions, you can dump the contents of the tub into a pan and heat it up on the stove if you don’t have a microwave or just want to feel more like you’re actually cooking.

But convenience only goes so far when it comes to the grocery budget. The tasters’ enthusiasm waned once the price tag of $4.69 was revealed. The mac-and-cheese earned a respectable four stars for taste, but only one and a half for value.

“Could be handy, but very pricey,” said Larry Inman.

That price does include, however, a rather sturdy plastic tub that could be re-used.

Other Country Crock Deluxe Side Dishes include Scalloped Potatoes, Cheddar Broccoli Rice and Loaded Mashed Potatoes.

Country Crock Deluxe Side Dishes: Macaroni and Cheese

Price: $4.69

Yield: Three 1-cup servings

Nutrition per serving: 370 calories, 17 grams fat (8 grams saturated), 14 grams protein, 40 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram dietary fiber, 40 milligrams cholesterol, 940 milligrams sodium.

Taste: ““““

Value: “1/2

Comments: “Just OK for me. Too orange.” – Marcia Oranen

“Better than most, but not health food!” – Andy Hoye

“Creamy and flavorful. Could be handy, but very pricey.” – Larry Inman

“This would definitely pass the kid test.” – Skip Hubbard

“Perfect balance of creamy cheese and tender macaroni.” – Tina Johnson