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Homemade Mac & Cheese Dry Mix

Homemade mac and cheese dry mix stored in a glass jar on the kitchen counter
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This Homemade Mac & Cheese Dry Mix is an easy pantry staple made with cheddar cheese powder, whole milk powder, and simple seasonings. Use it with cooked macaroni, butter, and reserved pasta water for an easy homemade mac and cheese.

Ingredients

  • For the Dry Mix:
  • 1½ cups cheddar cheese powder
  • ¾ cup whole milk powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • For the finished macaroni:
  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
  • ¾ cup Homemade Mac & Cheese Dry Mix (above)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • ½–¾ cup reserved hot pasta water, as needed

Instructions

  1. Add the cheddar cheese powder, whole milk powder, onion powder, ground mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to a medium bowl.
  2. Whisk thoroughly until everything is evenly combined and any clumps are broken up.
  3. Transfer the dry mix to an airtight container or jar.
  4. Store in a cool, dry place until ready to use.

How to use to prepare a 16-Ounce Box of Macaroni:

  1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions.
  2. Before draining, reserve at least 1 cup of the hot pasta water.
  3. Drain the macaroni and return it to the warm pot.
  4. Add the butter and stir until melted.
  5. Add ¾ cup of the dry mac and cheese mix.
  6. Add ½ cup reserved pasta water and stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add additional pasta water, 1–2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  8. Taste and add additional salt if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For a richer sauce: Replace some or all of the pasta water with milk.
  • For a cheesier sauce: Add another 1–2 tablespoons of dry mix to taste.
  • Consistency: The sauce will thicken as it sits. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it.
  • Storage: Keep the dry mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, following the storage recommendations for your cheese and milk powders.

Find it online: https://ourgratefulkitchen.com/homemade-mac-and-cheese-dry-mix/