Making your own homemade macaroni and cheese mix is a great way to have a convenient pantry staple on hand for quick and easy meals. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup powdered milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Method of preparation:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, powdered milk, all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If using any additional seasonings, add them to the mixture as well. Stir until everything is well combined.
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in the dry cheese mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Continue cooking and stirring the cheese mixture until it forms a smooth and thick paste, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the cheese mixture to cool completely.
Once cooled, transfer the cheese mixture to an airtight container or resealable bag for storage. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to several months.
To make macaroni and cheese using the homemade mix, simply cook the desired amount of pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add the desired amount of cheese mix and stir until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese is melted and creamy.
