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Easy Thermos Mac and Cheese: Best School Lunch Recipe

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This creamy, cheesy thermos mac and cheese stays warm and perfect for hours, making it the ultimate school lunch solution. It’s kid-approved, parent-trusted, and uses simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup freshly shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water.
  2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 1 minute less than the package directions for al dente (about 6-7 minutes for most brands).
  3. While the pasta cooks, start the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture looks like a thick, golden paste.
  4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Add the salt, garlic powder, and dry mustard powder. Whisk to combine.
  6. Add the shredded cheeses one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is fully melted before adding the next.
  7. Drain the pasta well. Do not rinse it.
  8. Pour the drained pasta directly into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece of macaroni is evenly coated.
  9. Pre-heat your thermos by filling it with boiling water, screwing the lid on, and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
  10. Empty the water from the thermos. Immediately spoon the hot mac and cheese into the thermos, packing it in tightly. Screw the lid on securely.

Notes

Pre-heating the thermos with boiling water for 5 minutes is non-negotiable for keeping the food hot. Cook pasta 1 minute less than al dente to prevent mushiness. Use full-fat dairy and freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest sauce. Let the mac and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes after stirring before packing to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: thermos mac and cheese, school lunch, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, kid-friendly lunch, hot lunch for school

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/easy-thermos-mac-and-cheese-best-school-lunch-recipe/