McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts and Weight Watchers points for Kids Mac & Cheese from McAlister’s.

Calories

There are 350 calories in Kids Mac & Cheese.

Nutrition Facts

*All percent daily value figures are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Nutritional information source: McAlister’s

Allergens

Contains egg gluten milk soy wheat
Does Not Contain* fish peanuts shellfish tree nuts
Unknown glutamates MSG mustard nitrates seeds sesame sulfites

Allergy Information: a McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese contains egg, gluten, milk, soy and wheat. a McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese does not contain fish, peanuts, shellfish or tree nuts.*

* Please keep in mind that most fast food restaurants cannot guarantee that any product is free of allergens as they use shared equipment for prepping foods.

Ingredients

Cheddar-Jack: (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzyme, Annatto [color], Potato Starch and Powdered Cellulose [anti-caking agent], Natamycin [mold inhibitor]).



Mac & Cheese: Macaroni and Cheese [Skim Milk, Macaroni (Semolina, Egg Whites, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Pasteurized Process Cheese Spread (American Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Whey, Sodium Phosphate, Whey Protein Concentrate, Skim Milk, Milkfat, Salt, Color Added), Canola Oil, Neufchatel Cheese (Cultured Milk and Cream, Salt, Carob Bean Gum, Guar Gum, Xanthan Gum), Soybean Oil, Cheddar Club Cheese (Cheddar Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Salt, Annatto Color), Wheat Flour, Cornstarch, Salt, Seasoning (Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Whey, Soybean Oil, Salt, Maltodextrin, Sour Cream [Cultured Cream, Nonfat Milk], Natural Flavor, Sodium Phosphate, Cultured Whey, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Annatto Color), Cheddar Cheese Flavor (Cheddar Cheese [Milk, Cultures, Salt, Enzymes, Annatto], Cream, Potassium Sorbate, Salt), Autolyzed Yeast Extract (Yeast Extract, Sunflower Oil), Xanthan Gum, Datem, Lactic Acid, Calcium Lactate, Seasoning (Wheat Starch, Extracts of Annatto and Turmeric Color, Natural Flavor) ]

Additional Information

When it comes to satisfying young taste buds, McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is a popular choice. This classic dish combines tender macaroni with a creamy cheddar-jack cheese sauce, creating a delightful experience for children. In this article, we will look at the features, pros, and cons of McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese to provide insight into what makes it a great option for kids’ meals.
Features of McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese

1. Delicious creamy texture: McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese has a rich, creamy texture that makes it a favorite comfort food for kids. The combination of tender macaroni and indulgent cheddar-jack cheese sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that kids love.
2. Generous portion size: The serving size of McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is designed to satisfy hungry appetites. The portion is thoughtfully designed to provide a filling and satisfying meal for growing children.
3. Simple and familiar ingredients: McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is made with familiar ingredients that parents can feel good about serving to their children. Ingredients include pasteurized milk, cheese culture, salt, enzyme, potato starch, cellulose powder and natamycin. These ingredients come together to create a tasty and wholesome dish.

Advantages of McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese

1. Good source of protein: McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese provides a remarkable amount of protein, with 14 grams per serving. Protein is essential for growing children as it supports healthy development and helps repair and build tissue.
2. Moderate calories: At 350 calories per serving, McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese offers a moderate calorie option for kids. This allows parents to include it in a balanced diet without compromising their child’s nutritional needs.
3. Calcium-Rich: Calcium is essential for children’s bone health, and McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese provides a good amount of calcium. The dish contains cheddar-jack cheese, a source of calcium that helps support strong and healthy bones.
4. Quick and convenient: McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is a convenient option for busy families. Whether it’s enjoyed as a dine-in meal or ordered to go, it’s a hassle-free solution for parents looking for a quick and satisfying meal for their kids.

Disadvantages of McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese

1. High carbohydrate content: McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese contains 27 grams of carbohydrates per serving. While carbohydrates are an important source of energy for kids, it’s important to balance them with other nutrients to maintain a well-rounded diet.
2. Sodium content: The dish has 788 milligrams of sodium per serving. While sodium is a necessary mineral, excessive intake should be monitored, especially in children with special dietary restrictions or medical conditions.
3. Limited nutritional variety: While McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is a satisfying and delicious meal option, it’s important to remember that a varied and balanced diet is critical to children’s overall health. Parents should aim to include a variety of food groups to ensure their child is getting a wide range of essential nutrients.

Conclusion
McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is a tasty and popular choice for kids, offering a creamy and satisfying eating experience. With its generous portion size, simple ingredients and high protein content, it offers several benefits for growing children. However, it’s important to be aware of its carbohydrate and sodium content, as well as the need for dietary variety. As part of a balanced diet, McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese can be a delightful treat for children, ensuring they enjoy a combination of taste and nutrition.

Questions and Answers

Is McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese a healthy choice for children?
McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese can be a part of a healthy diet for children when enjoyed in moderation. It provides a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for growth and development. However, it’s important to balance it with other nutritious foods and ensure a well-rounded diet.
Can children with dietary restrictions or allergies consume McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese?
McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese contains egg, gluten, milk, soy, and wheat. It does not contain fish, peanuts, shellfish, or tree nuts. However, it’s crucial to note that cross-contamination can occur, as fast-food restaurants often use shared equipment. Parents of children with specific dietary restrictions or allergies should exercise caution and consult with restaurant staff or allergen information before making a decision.
Can McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese be part of a vegetarian diet?
McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is not suitable for a strict vegetarian diet because it contains animal-derived ingredients such as pasteurized milk, cheese culture, and enzymes. However, it may be a viable option for lacto-vegetarians who include dairy in their diet.
Can McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese be reheated?
McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese can be reheated, but it’s best to reheat it gently to avoid overcooking and drying out the dish. It is recommended to use a microwave or stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Are there healthier alternatives to McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese on the menu?
While McAlister’s Kids Mac & Cheese is a popular choice, McAlister’s menu offers a variety of options that may be considered healthier alternatives. Some options include grilled chicken, salads, and vegetable-based sides. Parents can explore the menu to find options that meet their child’s dietary preferences and nutritional needs.