Homemade Instant Mac and Cheese

A quick and creamy homemade version of instant mac and cheese using dried pasta, cheese powder, and butter. This comforting dish comes together in minutes for a satisfying meal.

6 servings
17 min

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried short pasta, such as macaroni, penne, or fusilli
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • cups whole or low-fat milk
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • cut into pieces

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until just al dente. Meanwhile, whisk milk and cheese powder in a medium bowl.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Drain pasta and return to pot. Heat over low. Add butter and stir until melted and evenly coated, about 2 minutes. Add milk mixture and cook, stirring, until pasta is well coated and sauce thickens, 3-5 minutes. Taste and season with salt, if needed (some cheese powders will not require additional salt). Serve immediately.

    7 min