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Easy Thermos Mac and Cheese: Best School Lunch Idea

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This creamy, kid-approved mac and cheese stays hot in a thermos for hours, making it the perfect school lunch solution. With simple ingredients and a foolproof technique, it’s a budget-friendly, customizable meal that solves the problem of cold lunchtime pasta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 200g) elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Pinch of paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the thermos: Fill your thermos with boiling water, close the lid, and let it sit while you cook.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 1-2 minutes less than package directions (about 6-7 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside. Do not rinse.
  3. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth and slightly nutty.
  4. Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes, until it coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Season the sauce: Add the salt, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Whisk to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Add the cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted before adding more.
  7. Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the drained pasta into the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece is coated. The sauce will seem a little loose.
  8. Fill the thermos: Empty the hot water from the thermos. Use a towel to dry the inside quickly. Spoon the mac and cheese directly into the hot thermos, packing it tightly to minimize air gaps. Close the lid immediately.
  9. Keep it warm: The thermos will keep the mac and cheese hot for about 4-5 hours. For best results, pack it right before leaving for school. Do not open until lunchtime.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it will continue cooking in the thermos. Use room temperature milk to prevent lumps. Shred your own cheese from a block for a smooth sauce. Preheat the thermos with boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pack the thermos tightly to retain heat. For best results, pack right before leaving for school.

Nutrition

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

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