McDonald's Mac and Cheese (Photo : Twitter)
McDonald's started testing macaroni and cheese at several locations in Ohio late last week. The "mac and cheese" comfort food can be purchased a la carte for $1.75, or as a Happy Meal entree with fries, fruit, and milk.
It is quite common for the Golden Arches to test products in select markets. Sometimes the items are later rolled out nationally.
McDonald's spokeswoman Lisa McComb reported that the fast food chain is testing the 4-ounce portion mac & cheese at 18 locations in northeast Ohio, according to Richmond Times-Dispatch. McComb shared that it is too early to determine if mac and cheese will be available in other markets throughout the United States.
McDonald's will first collect and evaluate feedback from its customers. The company can then determine if it will offer the new menu item anywhere else.
McComb explained that the mac and cheese is made with a blend of real cheese, not powdered cheese. However, the kinds of cheese included are unknown.
CEO Steve Easterbrook has been at the helm since January of this year. He has since launched all-day breakfast and focused on simplifying the restaurant chain's menu.
Easterbrook explained that simplifying the menu can involve adding a new menu item. However, it must be easy to make, still allow fast service, and receive positive customer feedback.
McDonald's recently tested mozzarella sticks in New York, which will roll out nationwide on January 4. In the United Kingdom the company is also testing a thicker, premium hamburger, according to CNN.
