There’s a nostalgic comfort that washes over me whenever I take a whiff of bubbling macaroni and cheese. It transports me back to family dinners where laughter filled the room, and plates were always piled high. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this classic dish that brings both ease and flavor to the table: Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy – US Navy Style. This casserole is a delightful blend of creamy cheese goodness and crunchy cracker topping that’s not just effortless to whip up, but also a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe hits all the right notes – rich, cheesy, and unbelievably satisfying. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create an unforgettable dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. So, let’s get cooking!
Why will you love this Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy?
Comforting, this dish is a warm hug on a plate, instantly elevating any gathering or cozy night in. Quick to prepare, you’ll have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Decadent cheese layers blend harmoniously with a crunchy topping, offering that signature texture contrast everyone loves. Versatile, feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins, like veggies or proteins, to suit your taste. Kid-friendly and adored by adults alike, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Dive into this crowd-pleaser for an unforgettable meal!
Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy Ingredients
This classic comfort food recipe uses simple yet satisfying ingredients.
For the Casserole
- Elbow macaroni – This shape holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly!
- Processed cheese (such as Velveeta®) – Melts beautifully for that creamy texture.
- Condensed Cheddar cheese soup – Adds a rich and savory depth of flavor to the mix.
- Sour cream – Creates a luscious creaminess that balances the cheese.
- Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese – Sprinkling adds a lovely sharpness to the dish.
- Milk – Helps to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
- Salt – Enhances all the cheesy flavors.
- Ground black pepper – A dash adds a subtle kick!
For the Topping
- Crushed saltine crackers – Provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy macaroni.
- Butter, melted – Binds the crumbs together and adds richness.
This Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy will definitely become a cherished meal in your home!
How to Make Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick, allowing for easy serving later.
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Boil a large pot of lightly salted water over high heat. Once it’s bubbling, add in the elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes. You want them al dente—tender but still firm when bitten. Drain well!
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Combine the cooked macaroni in a large bowl with the processed cheese cubes, Cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed, then pour this cheesy goodness into your greased baking dish.
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Mix the crushed saltine crackers with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbling. Then, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and inviting.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy Variations
Whether you want to mix things up or cater to specific tastes, these variations will inspire your creativity in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap saltines for gluten-free crackers. Everyone can enjoy your creation!
- Extra Creamy: Add an additional half cup of cream cheese to the mixture for a luscious, gooey texture that melts in your mouth.
- Veggie Delight: Stir in cooked broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist that adds flavor and color to your casserole.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to heat things up and awaken those taste buds!
- Savory Herbs: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to brighten the flavors, adding a touch of freshness to each bite.
- Meat Lover’s: Fold in cooked crumbled sausage or shredded chicken for a hearty, protein-packed option that’s sure to satisfy.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheese varieties like gouda or add a dash of liquid smoke for a barbecue-inspired twist your guests will love.
- Bacon Crunch: Top the casserole with crumbled bacon or pancetta for an extra salty crunch that elevates the dish to new levels.
Feel free to explore these ideas and make this dish uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy
- Perfect Pasta: Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente. This prevents mushiness when baked in the casserole.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to mix cheeses; adding sharp cheddar or gouda can elevate the flavor profile for your Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy.
- Topping Texture: Ensure the butter is fully mixed with the cracker crumbs to create an even, crispy topping that will enhance the dish’s texture.
- Customize: Add cooked proteins like chicken or veggies to the mix for additional taste and nutrition, making the casserole more substantial.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, covered, to revive that gooey cheese goodness.
What to Serve with Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy?
Create a heartwarming meal experience to complement this cheesy delight.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness paired with soft bread adds a satisfying crunch and aromatic flavor that balances the richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright-green florets not only bring a pop of color but also lend a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole, making it feel lighter.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a zesty counterpart to the heaviness of the mac and cheese, where every mouthful feels like a party.
- Coleslaw: The cool, crisp cabbage with tangy dressing provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast, keeping your taste buds dancing all night!
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini caramelized to perfection adds vibrant flavors and nutrients to round out your meal.
- Sweet Tea: The sweet, refreshing nature of this classic drink pairs perfectly with cheesy dishes, helping to cleanse the palate.
- Chocolate Mousse: A dollop of rich, airy chocolate mousse can end your meal on a high note, balancing creamy with indulgent sweetness.
- Grilled Chicken: Seasoned chicken adds a protein boost and a savory element that works well with the mac and cheese’s creaminess, creating a satisfying dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy can be a lifesaver for your busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 through 4, then cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. Then bake according to the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cool. Trust me, it will be just as delicious as if made fresh!
Storage Tips for Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy
Room Temperature: Leftovers should not be left out for more than 2 hours to ensure safety and freshness.
Fridge: Store your Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it creamy and delicious for your next meal!
Freezer: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Bake at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, restoring that cheesy goodness.
Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy Recipe FAQs
What type of macaroni works best for this casserole?
I recommend using elbow macaroni, as its shape holds the cheese sauce perfectly, providing that gooey, creamy texture we all love in mac and cheese. If you’d like, other pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi could work as well!
How should I store leftovers of Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy?
To keep your delicious casserole fresh, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy?
Absolutely! You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
What can I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?
If your casserole turns out too dry, don’t fret! You can gently mix in a splash of milk or cream while reheating. If you’re prepping it from the start, consider adding a bit more sour cream or cheese sauce before baking to enhance creaminess.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This casserole contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute dairy ingredients with lactose-free alternatives, such as lactose-free cheese or sour cream, for a similar creamy texture. Always double-check ingredient labels for any potential allergens, especially if you’re cooking for others!
Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy – US Navy Style for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Boil a large pot of lightly salted water over high heat. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook uncovered for about 8 minutes until al dente. Drain well!
- Combine the cooked macaroni in a large bowl with the processed cheese cubes, Cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed, then pour this cheesy goodness into your greased baking dish.
- Mix the crushed saltine crackers with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until bubbling. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the topping is golden brown.