All-Time-Favorite Mac n’ Cheese Thermos Lunch
If your kids are like mine, they probably lived on Macaroni and Cheese in some form or other for most of their young years. I must admit, I’m a bit of a fanatic as well. This is a very good, homemade version of the prepackaged stuff, eliminating all those unpronounceable additives we don’t really care to ingest!
1 C uncooked macaroni
1/2 stick butter
3 tbsp flour
2 C hot milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp dry mustard
1 (8 oz) pkg. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (try a mixed variety package of cheese, including Monterey Jack for a change)
1 tsp paprika (optional)
Cook the macaroni according to the directions on the package.
Be sure to rinse in cold water and drain well.
In a sauce pan over low heat melt the butter.
Add the flour once the butter has melted and stir until completely moistened.
Pour in the milk.
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper and dry mustard.
Stir continuously until the mixture begins to thicken.
When thick remove from the heat.
Add 3/4 of the pkg. of cheese and stir until melted.
Butter (or use non-stick spray) a small casserole dish.
Place the macaroni into the prepared casserole.
Pour the sauce over the top and fold into the macaroni.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheese.
Heat the oven temperature to 350 degrees.
Bake the macaroni 45 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the casserole is slightly brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven.
Place in a warmed thermos.
Optional: Sprinkle with paprika before closing.
Serves 4
Macaroni and cheese is a classic meal. It is a cozy and filling meal and what better time to relax and enjoy some “comfort food” than during a busy work or school day.