Bob Evans is adding a protein-focused option to the refrigerated side dish category with the launch of its first Protein Macaroni & Cheese, delivering 18 grams of protein per serving.
Made with macaroni noodles, real milk, real cheese and dairy whey protein concentrate, the microwave-ready dish offers 80 percent more protein per serving than Bob Evans Original Macaroni & Cheese, the company said. It is sold in the refrigerated section at Kroger, Meijer and select Walmart stores, along with other retailers nationwide including Giant Eagle, Hy-Vee, Winn-Dixie and Giant.
“Protein continues to be an important part of how consumers are thinking about everyday eating,” said Ciare James, SVP and chief marketing officer at Bob Evans Farms. “With Protein Macaroni & Cheese, we’re bringing that trend to a category where consumers already turn for comfort and convenience, with a protein-forward spin on a Bob Evans favorite.”
Convenient protein
The launch targets growing demand for convenient protein: nearly half of adults (48 percent) seek more protein in their diets, according to Circana’s Eating Patterns in America 2026 report cited by the company. Bob Evans is the top-selling refrigerated macaroni and cheese brand, per Circana data for the 52 weeks ended Sept. 6.
“Macaroni and cheese has always been about comfort, and people shouldn’t have to choose between the comfort foods they love and the protein they’re looking for,” said Jason Roche, VP of the Bob Evans Farms portfolio. “Bob Evans Protein Macaroni & Cheese delivers both, with rich, velvety flavor, 18 grams of protein per serving and the convenience of a dish that’s ready in minutes.”
Columbus, Ohio-based Bob Evans Farms, owned by Post Holdings, has produced refrigerated, farm-inspired foods for more than 75 years. Its portfolio includes the top-selling refrigerated dinner sides along with sausage and egg products under the Bob Evans, Simply Potatoes, Egg Beaters and Owens brands.