Creamettes
Creamettes is a cheesy, comforting baked macaroni dish layered with American cheese, butter, and tomato juice, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until almost done.
- Rinse and drain the macaroni.
- In a casserole, layer a portion of macaroni, a few pats of butter, some tomato juice, and finely cut American cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until the cheese and butter are melted, about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of sour cream or cream cheese between the macaroni and cheese layers. If you're out of American cheese, try using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Make sure to salt the water generously when boiling the macaroni, as it enhances the overall taste of the dish. This recipe is a comforting twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamettes dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, such as Peas And Broccoli Salad, for a well-rounded meal. You can also enjoy it alongside garlic bread or Onion Twists for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, just add a splash of tomato juice to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamettes contains roughly 298 calories, with 5g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1006mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Creamettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamettes a day in advance. Assemble the layers in a casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type, as some may require longer to cook.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Creamettes is a vegetarian dish as it primarily consists of pasta, cheese, and tomato juice. However, always check the cheese packaging to ensure it meets your dietary preferences, as some brands may use animal rennet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).