I use this stuff all the time, sprinkled on top of all types of meals!
Bulk Barn’s Macaroni And Cheese Sauce Mix (Item #000252) is a powdered cheese sauce blend designed for making classic mac and cheese.
It’s a shelf-stable mix of ingredients like whey powder, maltodextrin, shortening, sodium caseinate (from milk), and likely cheese flavors, salt, and other additives for that signature creamy, tangy cheddar taste.
The usual Bulk Barn method is straightforward:
Cook 1½ cups (170 g) dry pasta, then mix 4 tbsp (30 g) of the sauce mix with 3 tbsp (45 ml) butter or margarine and ¼ cup (50 ml) milk (stir until smooth and creamy), then combine with the drained pasta. This yields a quick, kid-friendly mac and cheese.
Beyond the basic boxed-style preparation, this cheese sauce powder is incredibly versatile as a dry seasoning or quick thickener. It adds instant cheesy, savory flavor, creaminess, and a bit of tang without needing fresh cheese—perfect for boosting dishes with minimal effort.
Use it dry (sprinkled or whisked in) or reconstituted into a sauce for richer results.
Here are creative ways to incorporate it in meals, cooking, and baking:
Savory Cooking Applications
- Quick cheese sauces and dips: Whisk 2–4 tbsp powder with a bit of milk, butter, or hot water (start with ¼ cup liquid per 2 tbsp powder) for a fast nacho cheese, queso dip, or fondue-style sauce. Heat gently to avoid clumping—great for dipping pretzels, veggies, chips, or drizzling over fries, nachos, broccoli, cauliflower, or baked potatoes.
- Enhance soups and chowders: Stir 2–4 tbsp dry powder into creamy soups (potato, broccoli, tomato, or chicken) toward the end of cooking. It thickens slightly and adds cheesy depth—ideal for a quick “loaded” potato soup or cheesy vegetable chowder.
- Creamy casseroles and bakes: Mix ¼–½ cup dry powder into casseroles like tuna noodle, green bean, shepherd’s pie topping, or breakfast strata. It boosts cheesiness and helps bind without extra shredded cheese—bake as usual for gooier results.
- Seasoned coatings and snacks: Sprinkle dry powder (1–2 tbsp) over popcorn, roasted veggies (like broccoli or Brussels sprouts), homemade fries, or rice paper/tortilla chips for a cheesy “Doritos-like” crunch. Mix with melted butter for better adhesion.
- Meat and veggie boosters: Add 2–3 tbsp dry to ground meat mixtures (meatloaf, meatballs, burgers) for subtle cheesy flavor and moisture. Or stir into scrambled eggs, omelets, or mashed potatoes for extra richness.
- Pasta upgrades (non-mac): Toss cooked pasta (like shells or penne) with a quick sauce made from the powder, plus extras like garlic, herbs, or canned tuna/chicken for a fast “cheesy Alfredo” or tuna casserole vibe.
Baking and Snack Ideas
- Cheesy breads or biscuits: Incorporate 2–4 tbsp dry powder into dry ingredients for biscuits, scones, cheese straws, or quick breads. It adds savory cheese flavor and promotes browning—pair with herbs for garlic-cheddar rolls.
- Savory muffins or cornbread: Stir ¼ cup dry into batter for cheesy muffins, jalapeño cornbread, or savory scones—great as a side or snack.
- Homemade flavored crackers or crisps: Mix into dough or sprinkle on top before baking for cheesy crackers.
Other Creative Uses
- Flavor boost for ramen or instant noodles: Sprinkle 1–2 tbsp dry into the pot while cooking for an instant “cheesy ramen” upgrade—add hot sauce or veggies for variety.
- DIY seasoning blends: Combine with spices (paprika, garlic powder, cayenne) for a custom “cheesy ranch” or BBQ rub for popcorn, fries, or grilled meats.
- Loaded sides: Stir into mashed potatoes, grits, or polenta for creamy, cheesy versions.
Tips for best results:
- It dissolves best in warm liquids—whisk thoroughly to avoid clumps.
- Start with smaller amounts (1–2 tbsp) since it’s concentrated and salty; taste and adjust.
- Store airtight in a cool, dry place for long shelf life.
- Nutrition note: Per serving, it’s around 400 calories for a larger portion (high carbs ~57g, fat ~15g, protein ~8g), so it adds richness and calories quickly.
This powder is a budget-friendly shortcut for cheesy flavor in tons of dishes—way beyond just mac!