Campfire Mac and Cheese

Campfire mac and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings and camping trips. It’s a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, but prepared using a campfire or grill for added flavor. Here’s a basic recipe and instructions for making campfire mac and cheese:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you prefer
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite melting cheeses)
• 1 cup milk (evaporated milk works well for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs, cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, chopped herbs for toppings

Instructions:

• Prepare the Campfire:
  • Build a campfire or set up a grill with a cooking grate.
  • Allow the fire to burn down until you have a bed of hot coals.
• Cook the Pasta:
  • In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the macaroni until firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
• Make the Cheese Sauce:
  • In a heatproof pot or pan, melt the butter over the campfire or grill grate.
  • Once the butter is melted, gradually add the milk while stirring to combine.
  • Slowly add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
• Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce.
  • Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the cheese sauce.
• Cook Over the Campfire:
  • Place the pot with the macaroni and cheese sauce over the campfire or grill grate.
  • Be cautious not to place it directly over intense flames, as the cheese could burn.
  • Cook the mac and cheese for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
• Serve:
  • Once the mac and cheese is heated and has a nice campfire flavor, remove it from the heat.
  • You can top the mac and cheese with optional toppings like breadcrumbs, cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or chopped herbs.
• Enjoy:
  • Serve the campfire mac and cheese hot, straight from the pot.
  • Be sure to allow it to cool slightly before digging in.

Remember, cooking over a campfire requires careful attention to prevent burning, and the cooking times may vary based on the heat of your fire. Use heatproof cookware and utensils designed for outdoor cooking to ensure safety. Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding additional ingredients like roasted vegetables, cooked sausage, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Try this new recipe at your next visit to Meramec Campground.