Unique Uses for Cream Cheese in Everyday Meals

Cream cheese, an amazing ingredient has been a kitchen staple worldwide, known for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. It has the ability to transform simple meals into gourmet delights. In this article, we will explore these easy to make recipes that showcase the versatility of cream cheese using simple ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes.

Recipe 1: Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of bread
• 4 ounces of softened cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Butter for frying
• Maple syrup and fresh berries for serving

Instructions:

1. Combine cream cheese with honey until it reaches a smooth consistency.
2. Spread the mixture on four slices of bread and top with the remaining slices.
3. In a bowl whisk together milk, eggs and vanilla.
4. Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
5. Fry the sandwiches in a buttered pan over medium heat until they turn brown on both sides.
6. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Pairing Suggestion: Pair it with either crispy bacon on the side or a light fruit salad.

Recipe 2: Creamy Mushroom and Cream Cheese Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2 cups of sliced mushrooms
• 4 cloves of minced garlic
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

To make the dish follow these steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic until they become tender.
3. Reduce the heat. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts.
4. Drain the pasta. Add it to the sauce mixing well to coat it evenly.
5. Incorporate the parmesan cheese into the mixture and season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Before serving garnish with parsley.

To complement this creamy mushroom pasta dish, you can pair it with wine and some garlic bread.

Recipe 3: Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas

For this recipe gather these ingredients:

• 2 cups of chicken (shredded)
• 1 cup of cream cheese
• 1 cup of cheddar cheese
• 6 flour tortillas
• 1 cup of enchilada sauce
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions

Here are your instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix chicken with cream cheese and half of the cheddar. Divide the mixture among tortillas, roll up and place in a baking dish.
3. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with remaining cheddar. Bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
4. Before serving, garnish with green onions.

Pairing Suggestion: You can pair it with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.

Recipe 4: Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers

Ingredients:

• 12 jalapeños, halved and seeds removed
• 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature
• 1 cup of cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika

Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your oven to the desired temperature.
2. Take the halved jalapeños. Carefully remove the seeds from each one.
3. In a mixing bowl combine the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until blended.
4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture ensuring they are evenly filled.
5. In another bowl mix together breadcrumbs and smoked paprika.
6. Dip each filled jalapeño half into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat them evenly.
7. Place the poppers on a baking sheet or dish, lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and become crispy on top.
9. Once done, remove from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Pairing Suggestion: These Cream Cheese Jalapeño Poppers go well with a salsa dip on the side or alongside some sour cream for dipping.

Recipe 5: Cream Cheese and Berry Tart

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made tart shell
• 8 oz of softened cream cheese
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1 tsp of grated lemon zest
• 2 cups of mixed berries
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Beat together the cream cheese, sugar and lemon zest until smooth.
2. Spread the mixture evenly into the shell.
3. Arrange the berries on top. Drizzle with honey.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour before serving.

Suggestion for serving: Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

In conclusion 

Cream cheese goes beyond its uses in bagels and cheesecake. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent ingredient to explore in dishes. Whether it's adding richness to enchiladas or bringing sweetness to berry tarts, cream cheese has the power to elevate ingredients into extraordinary meals. With its versatility and user-friendly nature, it's a must have for any household kitchen bringing a touch of gourmet to everyday meals.