Comfort food at its finest – that’s what these 20 deliciously creamy American cheese recipes are all about. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort dishes or looking to add some cheesy flair to your meals, this collection has something for everyone. From mac and cheese to burgers, sandwiches, and everything in between, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy American cheese and exploring all the ways it can elevate your cooking. With a range of recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, you’re sure to find something that becomes a new favorite. So grab a glass of milk (or two), get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Classic American Cheese Mac and Cheese
This comforting classic is a staple of American comfort food, with its creamy blend of cheddar and macaroni, perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled American Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Soup
Elevate your lunch game with this nostalgic combination of gooey cheese, crispy bread, and creamy soup. In just a few minutes, you’ll be savoring a satisfying comfort food fix.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1-2 slices of American cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly brewed tomato soup (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with American cheese and another bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve immediately with a bowl of warm tomato soup.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
American Cheese Stuffed Meatballs
Take your meatball game to the next level with this creamy twist! These American cheese-stuffed meatballs are a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces American cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Make a small indentation in each meatball and fill with shredded American cheese.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy American Cheese Quesadillas
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. These cheesy quesadillas are filled with melted American cheese, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded American cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the cheese.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is lightly browned and the cheese starts to melt.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also lightly browned.
6. Repeat with remaining tortillas and cheese.
7. Cut into wedges and serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
American Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Burgers
American Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Burgers: Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these decadent burgers that combine the creaminess of melted American cheese, the smokiness of crispy bacon, and the juiciness of a perfectly cooked patty.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz ground beef
– 2 slices of American cheese, crumbled
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Mayonnaise or ketchup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly into patties.
3. Place a spoonful of crumbled American cheese in the center of each patty, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Top with a few pieces of crumbled bacon.
4. Fold the edges of the patty over the filling to form a ball shape, and then flatten slightly into patties again.
5. Season the burgers with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Serve on a toasted bun with mayonnaise or ketchup (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total.
Creamy American Cheese Scrambled Eggs
Start your day off right with this rich and creamy breakfast dish that combines the comfort of scrambled eggs with the indulgent flavor of American cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup shredded American cheese (such as Velveeta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they are almost set, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the shredded American cheese evenly over the top of the eggs.
5. Continue cooking for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the eggs are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
American Cheese Fondue with Crusty Bread
Savor the classic comfort of American cheese fondue, paired with crusty bread for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp)
– 1/2 cup grated American cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crusty bread, cut into cubes (about 1 inch)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cheddar and American cheese.
2. Add the milk, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Serve hot with crusty bread cubes for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cheesy American Cheese Potato Casserole
This creamy casserole is a staple of American comfort food, featuring layers of tender potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup American cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, American cheese, milk, butter, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Arrange half of the potato mixture in the dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining potato mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
American Cheese and Jalapeño Poppers
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these bite-sized treats that combine the creaminess of American cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, these poppers are easy to make and always a hit!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeño peppers
– 1 block of American cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together softened American cheese and beaten egg until well combined.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
5. Dip the stuffed peppers in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded American Cheese Nachos
Loaded American Cheese Nachos Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this loaded nacho recipe featuring gooey American cheese, savory ground beef, and a medley of toppings!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded American cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the beef mixture over the tortilla chips, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, American cheese, and black beans.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Add optional toppings to your liking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
American Cheese and Broccoli Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this comforting and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of American cheese with the crunch of steamed broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup American cheese, shredded
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together American cheese and milk until smooth.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top each breast with broccoli florets and dot with butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy American Cheese Garlic Bread
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the richness of American cheese with the savory flavor of garlic and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (14-16 inches long)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup American cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the cut side of the bread.
5. Sprinkle American cheese and Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter layer.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
American Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
American Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole: A hearty and satisfying morning meal that’s perfect for busy families or office breakfast gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded American cheese
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of frozen hash browns, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange hash browns in an even layer.
5. Top hash browns with cooked sausage, then pour egg mixture over the top.
6. Sprinkle shredded American cheese evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ultimate American Cheese Grilled Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and creamy take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. With a blend of sharp cheddar, smooth American, and melted provolone, this Ultimate American Cheese Grilled Cheese is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of sliced American cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices, butter-side down, on the griddle.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar, sliced American, and grated provolone cheese evenly over the bread.
5. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
American Cheese and Bacon Deviled Eggs
A classic twist on the traditional deviled egg, this recipe combines creamy American cheese with crispy bacon for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated American cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, American cheese, and crumbled bacon until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes to prepare
– 0 hours and 30 minutes to chill
Cheesy American Cheese Tater Tot Casserole
This comforting casserole combines crispy tater tots with a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of Tater Tots
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded American cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange the Tater Tots in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar and American cheese until well-mixed.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the paprika and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the milk while whisking, then stir in the cheese mixture until smooth.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the Tater Tots, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
American Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Get ready for a comforting twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe! This version combines the richness of American cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup American cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine American cheese, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
American Cheese and Pickle Grilled Sandwich
A classic combination of creamy American cheese, tangy pickles, and crispy bread, this grilled sandwich is a satisfying twist on the classic diner favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 2 slices of American cheese
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced dill pickle chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with an American cheese slice, a few pickle chips, and another slice of bread, butter-side up.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
7. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Cheesy American Cheese Cornbread
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the warmth of cornbread with the creaminess of melted American cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded American cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Pour in the shredded American cheese and fold until well distributed.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
American Cheese and Hot Dog Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this American Cheese and Hot Dog Casserole is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the flavors of hot dogs, macaroni, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 1 cup American cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine sliced hot dogs, American cheese, milk, and butter. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of American cheese with these 20 comfort food recipes! From classic mac and cheese to stuffed meatballs and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup or try your hand at cheesy potato casserole. For breakfast, stuff chicken with broccoli and American cheese, or make deviled eggs with a twist. With these creamy American cheese recipes, you’ll never go wrong!
