As a fan of this classic dish, I was keen to know if this freeze-dried LYO Expedition Menu Mac & Cheese version would deliver.

This delicious classic dish from LYO Expedition is reimagined for the outdoors and excels as both a standalone meal or a side.

Gemma Palmer recommends

I highly recommend this meal to anyone seeking a well-crafted and satisfying freeze dried option that prioritises flavour and clean eating.
Pros
  • bold flavour
  • creamy taste
Cons
  • occasional fine powdery texture
Quick specs
Price: £7.99 (available from Base Camp Food)
Weight: 130g
Calories: 625
Calories/100g: 481
Calories/£1: 78
Time to hydrate: 9 minutes
Vegan/vegetarian/dairy free/gluten free? vegetarian
lyofood.com

As a fan of a good Mac & Cheese, I was keen to know if this freeze-dried version would deliver, and thankfully, it did! This vegetarian meal is free from artificial additives and preservatives, making it a wholesome and natural choice.

The packaging is simple and minimal, with clear instructions that make preparation effortless. The internal fill line is hidden by the food, making it challenging to accurately measure the water and increasing the risk of spills.

The Mac & Cheese rehydrates to a creamy texture with a bold cheesy flavour and aroma. That’s the blend of pecorino, romano, and gruyère cheeses. However, I noticed a slight grainy texture in the sauce, possibly corn flour or shavings of cheese. Despite this minor issue, it provides a substantial 625 calories per serving, offering a significant energy boost.

This hot and satisfying meal truly captures the essence of a home cooked experience, making it an ideal choice for those craving a warm, comforting, and hearty meal without sacrificing quality or requiring lengthy preparation. I highly recommend this meal to anyone seeking a well-crafted and satisfying freeze dried option that prioritises flavour and clean eating.

Testing Conditions

Gemma tested these meals during winter hikes on the chilly, windy Cambridgeshire river trails. She enjoys a hot meal stop in winter and favours plant-based options if available. This review was first published in the September 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors.