Familiar flavors remain a staple on menus

With the growing popularity of global condiments and ethnic cuisines from around the world, it might seem like offering classics such as meatloaf, barbecue chicken and macaroni and cheese aren’t important anymore. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. According to Technomic’s recent Flavor report, although most diners say they like trying new flavors from time to time, one in five say they prefer sticking to their favorites and rarely try new ones. Even consumers who like trying new flavors sometimes don’t necessarily always want to venture out of their comfort zone. Dishes such as White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese are perfect for diners of all stripes. On one hand, Stouffer’s White Cheddar Mac and Cheese offers a familiar flavor that diners love, but on the other hand, because it’s made with fun cavatappi noodles and rich, sharp white cheddar cheese, it’s different enough to appeal to those who want to try something new.

Familiar flavors win big

According to Technomic’s Flavor report, familiar flavors are especially popular among younger consumers—40% of diners 18- to 34-years old say they are ordering foods that feature traditional flavors more than they were a year ago. Stouffer’s White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese, with nine month-aged white cheddar cheese, is perfect as an entree or a side dish—as well as on its own or with an array of toppings. For diners who want familiar flavors, options such as broccoli and bacon are perfect, and for those who want to branch out a bit, poblano pepper and chorizo can be a delicious combo. Technomic’s Flavor report finds that the biggest reason diners try new items is because they’re looking for something different. However, 42% of consumers say they expect restaurants and foodservice locations to offer signature flavors. White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese offers a perfect balance of new and familiar—and with white cheddar instead of traditional cheddar cheese, foodservice operations can offer it as a signature dish to increase its appeal.

Homemade-style flavors contribute to appeal

Technomic’s Flavor report finds that 59% of consumers believe the flavor of a dish is enhanced if it has no artificial flavors. Stouffer’s White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese is made with no artificial flavors or colors and has no preservatives. It’s a familiar, homemade-style dish that diners love. With its tasty yet unique cheese sauce, it also offers noncommercial foodservice the opportunity to offer it as an indulgent, nostalgic dish. And because it’s less common on menus than macaroni and cheese with traditional cheddar, operators can market it as such to an advantage. After all, 43% of diners say they are tempted to order an item if it comes with a sauce or ingredient they can only get at a particular restaurant or foodservice location. White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese offers a familiar flavor that’s appealing to those who want comfort food, as well as to those who want comfort food with a twist.

By menuing delicious dishes that feature familiar flavors, operators stand to capture a big portion of diners’ dollars. With comfort foods such as White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese and more on the menu, consumers know they can come back again and again and will always be able to find something they love.