Homemade Garlic Parmesan Shells Pantry Mix

Ingredients

• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese (the shelf-stable kind works best for the dry mix)
• 0.25 cup nonfat dry milk powder
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 2 cup water (for cooking)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl or directly in a quart-sized mason jar, combine the dry ingredients: 8 oz pasta shells, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup dry milk powder, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

2. 2

   If not using immediately, seal the jar and store in a cool, dry pantry.

3. 3

   To prepare the pasta, add 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet or saucepan.

4. 4

   Whisk in the dry seasoning and milk powder mix from the jar (you can set the pasta shells aside or add them now if using a one-pot method).

5. 5

   Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat.

6. 6

   Add the pasta shells to the boiling liquid.

7. 7

   Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for 8 to 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.

8. 8

   Remove from heat and let sit for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken further.

Notes

For best results, use the shelf-stable grated parmesan cheese (green shaker bottle style) if you plan to store the mix in the pantry for more than a few days. If using fresh parmesan, keep the mix refrigerated.

Nutrition per serving

• side dish
• pasta
• pantry staple
• vegetarian
• garlic parmesan
• meal prep
• kid-friendly