When you’re out in the great outdoors, there’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm and cheesy meal. That’s where Campsite Mac ‘n Cheese Casserole comes in. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for camping trips. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of mac ‘n cheese with the convenience of a one-pot casserole, making it a campfire favorite. So, let’s get ready to enjoy some cheesy campfire magic!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Campfire:
- Before you start cooking, ensure you have a campfire with a nice bed of hot coals. You’ll be cooking the casserole over these coals, not in direct contact with open flames.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same pot, melt the butter over the campfire. Add the flour and whisk continuously for a few minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) for extra flavor. Stir well.
4. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
- Return the cooked macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir to coat the macaroni evenly with the cheesy goodness.
5. Layer with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mac ‘n cheese mixture.
6. Bake in the Campfire:
- Cover the pot with a lid and place it on the hot coals of your campfire. Make sure there are coals on top of the lid as well to provide even heat.
- Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Carefully remove the pot from the campfire (it will be hot).
- Serve the Campsite Mac ‘n Cheese Casserole directly from the pot and savor every cheesy bite.
Campsite Mac ‘n Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for your outdoor adventures. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit around the campfire. So, pack your ingredients, head into the wilderness, and treat yourself to this campfire classic. Your taste buds will thank you!
Enjoy your camping trip with this delightful campfire meal. Happy camping and happy eating!