A few weeks ago I joined a Kraft community called First Taste, which allows it’s members to learn about new Kraft products, try them and give their opinion. My first review opportunity was the new Velveeta Shells & Cheese bowls which can be prepared via microwave oven in just 3 1/2 minutes. I was able to print a coupon to buy one bowl and get a second bowl free. When my grocery store put the bowls on sale for $1 each I decided to jump on the opportunity and pick up two bowls to try this week – we just had them for lunch today.

The preparation of the bowls is ridiculously easy – simply remove the cover, take out the cheese package, then add water to the FILL line. Microwave for 3 1/2 minutes then remove carefully (the bowl will be pretty hot and you want to make sure you don’t spill) and add the cheese sauce, which tasted a bit like a Handisnacks before being mixed in, but once combined with the pasta it tasted great. I transfered the finished product to a bowl so as to feel slightly better about handing the meal over to my three year old (I also gave him some cottage cheese and grapes – the bowls are relatively small at just 220 calories and although fairly filling we both needed an extra dish on the side to feel full) but that is obviously optional. My son loved the macaroni and cheese which had that classic Velveeta creaminess and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised, too. I’d been prepared to dislike this dish but all I can really say in complaint is that I wish it were a bit larger. If you were bringing this to work or school for lunch, I’d definitely recommend bringing a snack along, too.

I think these cups would be perfect for the hungry college student with access to water and a microwave – as that’s really all you need to make this. You can also buy them in other varieties like a 2% milk version as well as one that’s mixed with broccoli. I will likely be picking these up again in the future, especially with a new baby on the way – quick lunches will likely be all the rage around here!

Have you tried the Velveeta Shells and Cheese Cups? Like? Dislike? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.