For me the boxed mac 'n' cheese takes 4 mins to cook, add the cheese powder and stir and it's 5 mins. "Home made" mac 'n' cheese takes 10 mins to cook the pasta in the microwave, drain the water, add mozzarella and back into the microwave for about 60 secs, and add whatever on top... so about 12 mins overall for me. Dishes are the same, just a bowl and a spoon lol! I don't know how many kids you have but kudos to you for your patience :)