Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni noodles - 250g (9oz)
- Fresh corn kernels - 2 cups (280g)
- Ground beef or chicken - 300g (10oz) (Optional, but recommended)
- Cream cheese - 1 block (8oz)
- Butter - 50g (1.7oz)
- Milk - 1 cup (237ml)
- Cheddar cheese - 1 cup (shredded)
- Salt and pepper - to taste
- Chopped green bell peppers or bell peppers rings - ½ cup (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total: 75 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the macaroni noodles until slightly softened but still have a bite, then drain the water and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter and add the ground meat of your choice. Season with salt and pepper and cook until browned.
- Once the meat is cooked, add the corn kernels and green bell peppers (if using) and cook for a few minutes more.
- Add the cream cheese and milk, mixing well until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Stir in the macaroni noodles and mix well, ensuring all noodles are coated with the mixture.
- Pour into a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: Approx. 450 calories per serving (depending on meat choice and quantity)
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 23g
Dish Characteristics:
- A hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for colder weather or a family meal.
- The combination of macaroni, corn, and cheese creates a rich and creamy texture that's both kid-friendly and loved by adults.
- The dish can be customized with different meats or even vegetables to suit different tastes.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit at my family gathering! Everyone loved the combination of flavors." - John Doe
- "I added some diced ham to this dish and it was even better. A great way to use up leftover ham." - Jane Smith
- "My kids loved this! It's a great way to get them to eat their veggies." - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to cook the macaroni just right - not too soft or too hard. It should still have a bit of a bite to it.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- For a more authentic American taste, use sharp cheddar cheese instead of regular cheese.
