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Snack ProductsNew Snack and Bakery ProductsFrozen Snacks/Appetizers

Dr. Praeger's launches Mac & Cheese Stars

The new frozen appetizer will arrive at Target stores in May.

By SF&WB Staff
Dr. Praeger's launches Mac & Cheese Stars
Courtesy of Dr. Praeger's
April 1, 2026

Dr. Praeger’s, the frozen food brand known for its family-friendly snacks for more than 30 years, is expanding its growing snacking platform with the launch of Mac & Cheese Stars, arriving at Target stores in May.

Mac & Cheese Stars are Dr. Praeger’s take on a classic comfort favorite, combining real cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, macaroni, and a crispy golden coating, the brand says. Reportedly crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these star-shaped snacks deliver rich cheesy flavor and cook up in minutes in the air fryer or oven, making them a suitable option for busy afternoons, after-school snacks, or quick family meals, Dr. Praeger's adds. Made with vegetables including cauliflower, butternut squash, and carrots, each serving delivers five g of protein and three g of fiber.

“Mac & Cheese Stars are all about delivering that craveable, cheesy, comfort-food experience in a way that works for today’s families,” says Jenna Behrer, chief growth officer at Dr. Praeger’s. “It’s the kind of snack kids get excited about and parents feel good serving, making it an easy ‘yes’ any time of day.”

The launch builds on the momentum behind Dr. Praeger’s expanding snack portfolio, which now includes products such as Pizza Stars, Taco Stars, and Broccoli Cheddar Cheesy Bites. Together with the brand’s Littles line—one of the most recognized lines of veggie snacks for kids in the frozen aisle, it says—Dr. Praeger’s continues to grow its presence in the better-for-you frozen snack category.

Mac & Cheese Stars will launch at Target in May with a retail price of $5.99.


Related: Busy schedules fuel the hunger for frozen snacks

KEYWORDS: Dr. Praeger's fried snacks innovation

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