Mac and cheese may be the ultimate comfort food, but even the classics deserve a seasonal update. This fall, Kraft is introducing two bold new flavors, Hot Honey and Garlic Parmesan, that take the familiar blue box in yummy new directions. Both lean into food trends that are dominating 2025 while keeping the nostalgia the brand is known for.
The aforementioned spicy-sweet flavor has exploded in popularity, with #HotHoney racking up more than 100 million views on TikTok and showing up on restaurant menus across the country. Garlic Parmesan, meanwhile, leans on its reputation as a tried-and-true favorite: With 85% of U.S. consumers already familiar with the pairing and nearly three-quarters having enjoyed it in everything from wings to pasta, it’s a timeless choice.
Sweet Heat Meets Creamy Comfort
Hot Honey blends the brand’s signature cheesy sauce with the flavorful kick of honey and chili. The combination is designed to hit that balance of comfort and thrill, giving mac and cheese fans something a little more adventurous while still feeling approachable.
Adding Hot Honey to the lineup makes sense: Swicy pairings are one of the biggest flavor trends of the year. Foodies have been drizzling hot honey on everything from fried chicken to pizza, and social media has helped fuel the obsession.
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Garlic Parmesan Brings Familiar Flavor
Garlic Parmesan mac & cheese combines a creamy base with robust garlic and parmesan notes, giving the dish a flavor profile that feels a bit elevated while still being family- and kid-friendly.
Unlike Hot Honey, this isn't a trend-chasing flavor but rather a cozy classic. Garlic Parmesan has long been a go-to seasoning for wings, breadsticks, and pasta, which is why your mouth probably waters at the mention of it.
To elevate both macs even more, focus on texture: You can't go wrong with adding toasted panko breadcrumbs, tossing in some peas, or mixing in crispy bacon. Serve alongside crusty bread and your favorite veggie.
What to Expect in Stores
These flavors hit shelves at different points during the fall season, and while they're available for a limited time, they'll be around long enough for you to add to your cozy and easy winter meal rotation.
- Hot Honey Mac & Cheese: Exclusively at Target starting September 28, limited time through spring 2026.
- Garlic Parmesan Mac & Cheese: Nationwide release October 20, also available through spring 2026.
They'll cost $2 per box, making both an affordable upgrade to a weeknight dinner or tailgate spread.
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