Easy Peasy Mac N Cheesy: U.S. Navy Style Comfort Food
Mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, a childhood staple, and a dish that transcends generations. But not all mac and cheese is created equal. Today, we’re diving deep into a recipe that’s both incredibly easy and delivers that creamy, cheesy goodness you crave: Easy Peasy Mac N Cheesy, inspired by the classic U.S. Navy rendition. This isn’t your gourmet, truffle-infused mac and cheese. This is the real deal: simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a flavor that will transport you back to simpler times. This mac and cheese recipe is so easy it even is known as, “galley gourmet” among navy veterans.
Why This Recipe?
There are countless mac and cheese recipes out there, so why choose this one? Here’s why this U.S. Navy-inspired version stands out:
* **Simplicity:** We’re talking pantry staples and minimal prep time. No fancy cheeses or complicated sauces required.
* **Creaminess:** The secret lies in the cheese sauce, which is smooth, rich, and coats every noodle perfectly.
* **Nostalgia:** This recipe evokes memories of classic comfort food, reminiscent of school lunches or cozy family dinners.
* **Adaptability:** This is a great base recipe. Feel free to add your own twist with different cheeses, spices, or toppings.
* **Affordability:** Budget-friendly ingredients make this a meal you can enjoy anytime.
The U.S. Navy Connection
The U.S. Navy has a long history of providing hearty, satisfying meals to its sailors at sea. Mac and cheese is a frequent feature on Navy menus, offering a comforting taste of home. While the exact recipes may vary from ship to ship, the core principles remain the same: simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a focus on flavor. This recipe is inspired by that tradition, bringing you a taste of Navy comfort food in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that you likely already have most of these on hand:
* **1 pound elbow macaroni:** The classic choice for mac and cheese. Feel free to substitute with other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
* **1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter:** This forms the base of our roux and adds richness to the sauce. Salted butter can be used, but be sure to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.
* **1/2 cup all-purpose flour:** This thickens the sauce and prevents it from being too runny.
* **3 cups milk:** Whole milk will give you the creamiest results, but 2% or even skim milk can be used in a pinch. You can also use evaporated milk for an even richer sauce.
* **4 cups (1 pound) shredded cheddar cheese:** Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor, but you can use a blend of cheddar cheeses or other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyere.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** Adjust to taste. The cheese will also add saltiness to the dish.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** Adds a touch of warmth and spice. Feel free to add more or less to your liking.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, cooked bacon, diced ham, or vegetables.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large pot:** For cooking the pasta.
* **Saucepan:** For making the cheese sauce.
* **Colander:** For draining the pasta.
* **Whisk:** For ensuring a smooth cheese sauce.
* **9×13 inch baking dish (optional):** If you want to bake the mac and cheese for a golden-brown crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part! Let’s walk through the process of making this easy peasy mac n cheesy:
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Al dente means the pasta is cooked through but still has a slight bite to it. This will prevent the mac and cheese from being mushy.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
**Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce**
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is the base of our cheese sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will give the sauce a bitter taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
**Step 3: Combine and Serve**
1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
2. Serve immediately or transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish for baking (optional).
**Step 4: Bake (Optional)**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
4. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Al dente pasta will hold its shape better in the cheese sauce.
* **Use freshly grated cheese:** Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will give you a creamier sauce.
* **Whisk constantly:** This will prevent lumps from forming in the cheese sauce.
* **Don’t overheat the cheese sauce:** Overheating can cause the cheese to separate and become greasy.
* **Adjust the seasoning to your liking:** Taste the cheese sauce and add more salt, pepper, or other spices as needed.
* **Get creative with add-ins:** Bacon, ham, vegetables, or hot sauce can add extra flavor and texture to your mac and cheese.
Variations and Add-ins
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for customizing your mac and cheese:
* **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a touch of blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra depth of flavor.
* **Vegetables:** Stir in cooked broccoli, cauliflower, peas, carrots, or spinach for a healthier twist.
* **Meat:** Add cooked bacon, ham, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
* **Toppings:** Sprinkle breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, or chopped chives over the top before baking.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
* **Crumbled Crackers:** Top with crumbled Ritz crackers or other buttery crackers before baking for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **As a main course:** Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
* **As a side dish:** Pair with grilled chicken, steak, ribs, or pulled pork.
* **For a potluck:** Mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and gatherings.
* **For a quick lunch:** Leftover mac and cheese is perfect for a quick and easy lunch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Mac and cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
You can also freeze mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
* Calories: 400-500 per serving
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Protein: 20-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
Recipe Card
**Easy Peasy Mac N Cheesy (U.S. Navy Style)**
A classic comfort food recipe inspired by the U.S. Navy. Simple, creamy, and delicious!
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 4 cups (1 pound) shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional add-ins: Breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, cooked bacon, diced ham, or vegetables.
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Serve immediately or transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish for baking (optional).
4. Bake (Optional): Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy Peasy Mac N Cheesy recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, give this recipe a try. You might just find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy!