Easy pleasy mac n cheesy us navy style –Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy, inspired by the comforting flavors of a classic US Navy-style baked ziti. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Here’s how to bring this dish to life:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the meat sauce mixture. Stir in 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Final Touch
And there you have it! This Easy Pleasy Mac N Cheesy is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Serve it hot, and watch your family and friends dig in with delight. Enjoy your homemade comfort food masterpiece!
