Exploring Delicious Cream Cheese Recipes: From Savory Mac and Cheese to Sweet Ice Cream

Are you a fan of creamy, rich and indulgent dishes that can enhance your meals with a luscious texture? Cream cheese is the perfect ingredient to achieve just that. Whether you are craving something savory or sweet, there is a cream cheese recipe out there for everyone.

Savory Cream Cheese Dishes

One of the most classic and delicious ways to enjoy cream cheese is in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This).

Mac and Cheese with an Extra Creamy Boost

A comforting and delicious pasta dish, mac and cheese, is always a hit at any dinner table. Recently, I made a version that took it to the next level with the addition of Italian sausage and crushed Cheez-Its as a topping. Here is a simple but delicious recipe:

LT's Creamy Mac and Cheese with Options

Yield: 8 cups

8 oz elbow macaroni (scant 2 cups dry) 4 tablespoons butter 4 tablespoons flour 2 cups of milk 7 oz sharp cheddar cheese or a combination with American or Gruyere 3 oz of cream cheese, cubed or cut into pieces 1/8 teaspoon of dry mustard 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Options:

Add 12 oz of cooked lobster meat chopped. Add with the noodles. Add 12 oz of Italian sausage bulk and cook before adding with noodles. Topping A: 3/4 cup of Panko bread crumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle on top before baking. Topping B: Crush 1.5 ounce of Cheez-Its and mix with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Add before baking.

Instructions:

Boil macaroni in 3 quarts of water for 7 to 8 minutes and drain. Meanwhile, melt butter and whisk in the flour in a saucepan and cook over low heat for a couple of minutes. Do not brown. Whisk milk into butter and flour until smooth and simmer for a couple of minutes. Stir in all cheese, mustard, and seasonings and return to a simmer. Stir cheese sauce and macaroni to mix thoroughly and pour into a 2 or 2.5 quart casserole dish. Let sit for 10 minutes and serve. To bake, add a topping and put in a 400F oven for 20 minutes.

Sweet Cream Cheese Desserts: Cream Cheese Ice Cream

Another delightful use of cream cheese can be found in sweet treats like ice cream. Cream cheese ice cream is a remarkable twist on a classic dessert. While some desire to switch to cottage cheese for lactose-free variants, using cream cheese provides a rich and creamy texture that is simply irresistible.

I often favor using cream cheese directly in my homemade ice cream recipe, making it a standout treat during the summer months or whenever you crave something sweet and decadent. Enjoy creating these delicious cream cheese recipes, whether you are serving them at a casual dinner party or a family gathering!