### Instant Pot Mac and Cheese: A Creamy Comfort Food

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese embodies the ultimate in creamy, comforting cuisine that can be made in no time. With elbow pasta, a trio of cheeses, and straightforward seasonings, this meal is ideal for Thanksgiving celebrations or a rapid weeknight dinner.

#### Flavor Profile
The taste of this mac and cheese is indulgently creamy, featuring a zesty punch from sharp cheddar and a dash of ground mustard. The blend of velvety cream cheese and savory spices achieves a delightful harmony that will please any cheese enthusiast.

#### Skill Level
This recipe is suitable for beginners, making it a perfect option for anyone wanting to create a comforting meal with minimal hassle. The ingredients are simple and probably already available in your kitchen.

#### Essential Tools
An Instant Pot is necessary for this recipe, enabling fast cooking and effortless cleanup.

#### Serving Suggestions
This mac and cheese can function as a main entrée paired with a fresh salad for hectic weeknights or serve as a side dish during your next holiday gathering.

### Easy Ingredients and Add-Ins
– **Pasta**: Elbow macaroni is favored, but any small pasta varieties like small shells or mini penne will do well.
– **Seasonings**: The pasta is cooked with water, butter, and spices for enhanced flavor.
– **Milk/Cream Cheese**: Standard milk mixed with full-fat cream cheese forms a creamy sauce. For a more robust taste, consider whole milk, light cream, or half-and-half.
– **Cheese**: A mix of cheeses, including Parmesan and sharp cheddar, is suggested. Grating cheese from the block produces superior results, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as evenly.

### Variations
– **Add a Kick**: Stir in chunky salsa or a splash of hot sauce for a Tex-Mex flair.
– **Make it Heartier**: Incorporate bacon, diced ham, or cooked ground beef for a more substantial meal.
– **Try New Cheeses**: Experiment with mozzarella, Colby, Gouda, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
– **Add a Crunchy Topping**: Move to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or Panko, and broil until browned for extra texture.

### Leftovers
Store any remaining mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Freezing is discouraged due to the high dairy content. When reheating, add a splash of milk or heavy cream to maintain creaminess.

### Recipe Overview
– **Servings**: 8
– **Prep Time**: 10 minutes
– **Cook Time**: 6 minutes
– **Total Time**: 26 minutes (including pressure build time)

### Instructions
1. In a 6qt Instant Pot, combine uncooked elbow pasta, water, butter, dry mustard, onion powder, seasoned salt, and pepper.
2. Secure the lid and set to seal. Select MANUAL – HIGH PRESSURE for 6 minutes.
3. Once cooking is done, perform a quick release of the pressure. Do not drain the cooking liquid.
4. Mix in the cream cheese until melted. Gradually add ¼ cup of milk until well combined.
5. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
6. Serve right away.

### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 341
– **Carbohydrates**: 29g
– **Protein**: 15g
– **Fat**: 18g
– **Sodium**: 384mg

This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese is a charming dish that merges convenience with comfort, making it a favored recipe for any setting. Savor the creamy delight and the happiness it brings to your table!

Tennessee Onions: A Scrumptious Cheesy Accompaniment

Tennessee onions represent an easy yet delightful dish that merges the sweetness of onions with the robust, savory essence of melted cheese. This dish is ideal for cheese enthusiasts and serves as a fantastic side for any meal, especially during celebratory moments like Thanksgiving.

To make Tennessee onions, begin by slicing sweet onions and placing them in a baking dish. Season the onion slices with your preferred spices to boost their inherent sweetness. Then, lavishly add your favorite cheese over the onions. Popular cheese choices consist of cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor experience.

After preparation, bake the onions in the oven until they become soft and the cheese is melted and bubbling. The end result is a delectable mix of tender, tasty onions and gooey, golden cheese.

Tennessee onions are adaptable and can be tailored to fit your flavor preferences. Experiment with various seasonings and cheese kinds to craft your ideal rendition of this dish. Whether enjoyed alongside a substantial main dish or as a component of a festive spread, Tennessee onions are guaranteed to delight a crowd.

# Savoring Japanese Musk Melon: A Culinary Journey

I’ve had the desire to savor a complete Japanese musk melon for some time now, and it has finally come to fruition. My intrigue with fruit culture in Japan has always been profound. In Japan, fruits are not merely for consumption; they are viewed as masterpieces, meticulously grown and cultivated not only for flavor but for their immaculate, flawless presentation, often aimed at being gifts. Exclusive melons can cost hundreds of dollars, and a single slice is frequently served as dessert at the conclusion of upscale omakase sushi experiences.

On my latest trip to Tokyo, my friend Mike proposed we explore the melons at Takashimaya, a prominent department store. To my joy, we discovered a selection of melons significantly discounted, and I am now one melon heftier!

## What is a Musk Melon?

A musk melon refers to a class of melons that encompasses honeydew and cantaloupe. Nonetheless, in Japan, musk melons signify a unique variety cultivated solely within the nation. These melons bear resemblance to honeydew or cantaloupe but are unique in their flavor and texture. Japanese musk melons are esteemed for their juicy smoothness, honeyed sweetness, robust flavor, and remarkable aroma. They come in both green and orange types, typically sporting an intricate, netted shell.

## Where to Buy Expensive Fruit for Less in Tokyo

In Japan, regular fruit can be found at supermarkets, but for top-notch, exquisite fruit, you will need to visit specialized fruit shops like Sun Fruits, Sembikiya, or Takano. However, if you’re seeking somewhat budget-friendly luxury, upscale department stores are the way to go.

### Department Store Fruit in Japan

Upscale department stores (and even the standard ones) in Japan feature food courts in their lower levels, providing a variety of ready-to-eat items and groceries. The grocery aisle is where you can discover high-quality fruit at more affordable prices. Seek out the section selling groceries, where regular and specially gift-wrapped fruit is displayed. This spot often yields the best bargains.

The top department stores to try your luck for melon offers include [Takashimaya](https://www.takashimaya.co.jp/store/special/stores/en/), [Isetan](https://cp.mistore.jp/global/en.html), and Mitsukoshi.

## Shop After 5 PM

If you’ve ever resided in Japan, you understand that grocery stores frequently reduce prices on their ready-made food as closing time approaches. The same applies to fruit! While securing a sale is partly based on luck and timing, I experienced a fortunate moment when Mike suggested we buy a melon. We stumbled across various discounts, and I was ecstatic to see melons originally listed at ¥5400 reduced to ¥2000! My heart raced at the prospect of such a deal. After a moment of contemplation, Mike urged me, saying, “When else will you find a melon deal like this?” We decided to seize the opportunity, and now I am one melon wealthier (minus the two bites Mike snuck).

## How to Acquire the Finest Japanese Melon

Once the choice was made, I was determined to pick the best melon from the discounted selections. I approached the fruit seller and utilized Google Translate to request his assistance in selecting the finest melon. He was exceptionally friendly and began assessing the melons on offer. He inquired when we intended to enjoy our melon: today or in a couple of days. Without hesitation, I opted for today. He cheerfully handed me his selected melon, and Mike noted that he remarked, “Good deal, it’s a big one!” but I was too captivated to catch anything beyond our melon.

## How Are Premium Musk Melons Cultivated in Japan?

Unlike regular melons, premium musk melons in Japan are hand-pollinated and pruned to yield only one fruit per plant, known as “ichiju ikka” in Japanese. This technique guarantees that all the plant’s energy and nutrients focus on a single melon, culminating in an exceptionally sweet and juicy fruit. The melons are consistently rotated and monitored to ensure they develop uniformly netted, round, and essentially flawless. The more perfect the melon, the greater the price. All premium melons are sold with their stems intact, demonstrating the one plant, one fruit principle.

## What is the Flavor of Japanese Musk Melon?

Japanese musk melon embodies the quintessence of melons—sweet, refreshing, juicy, and profoundly enjoyable. They capture the essence of melon, with rich flavor distilled into a juicy, sweet, tender orb of deliciousness. I have experienced two melon epiphanies in my life: once in Colorado and now in Tokyo. I might be eternally doomed, perpetually in search of discounted melons in the lower levels of department stores.

As an interesting note, my melon’s

**Title: Breakfast Casseroles You Can Prepare Ahead for Holidays and Weekdays**

As life becomes more hectic, securing time for a healthy breakfast can prove difficult. Be it the bustling rush of a weekday morning or the leisurely vibe of a holiday, breakfast casseroles that can be prepared ahead present a handy and flavorful option. These adaptable dishes allow for advance preparation, enabling you to relish a calm morning with a substantial meal ready and waiting.

**Why Opt for Breakfast Casseroles?**

There are multiple reasons to favor breakfast casseroles:
1. **Convenience:** Make them the evening prior or even several days in advance. Just place them in the oven when morning arrives.
2. **Versatility:** Personalize with your preferred ingredients—vegetables, meats, cheeses, and beyond.
3. **Portion Control:** Effortlessly serve a large group or create smaller servings for individual meals.
4. **Nutritional Balance:** Blend proteins, carbs, and vegetables for a well-rounded dish.

**Common Ingredients and Variations**

1. **Egg-Centered Casseroles:** Eggs serve as a fundamental component in breakfast casseroles, adding protein and a light texture. Pair with cheese, spinach, mushrooms, or bacon for a traditional favorite.

2. **Bread-Centered Casseroles:** Employ stale bread or croissants as the foundation. Incorporate items like sausage, cheddar, and bell peppers for a tasty treat.

3. **Hash Brown Casseroles:** Shredded potatoes or hash browns provide a robust base. Combine with eggs, onions, and ham for an enjoyable meal.

4. **Sweet Casseroles:** For those who prefer a sweeter option, think of a French toast casserole with cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup. Toss in fruits such as berries or apples for added taste.

**Preparation Suggestions**

– **Plan in Advance:** Select recipes that align with your timetable. Some casseroles can be assembled and frozen for weeks, whereas others are better made a day before.
– **Layering:** Ensure uniform cooking by correctly layering ingredients. Start with a strong base, add fillings, and finish with cheese or a crumbly topping.
– **Baking Time:** Modify baking durations based on the dimensions and depth of your casserole dish. A deeper dish might need a more extended cooking period.
– **Storage:** Keep prepared casseroles in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer preservation. Defrost frozen casseroles in the refrigerator overnight prior to baking.

**Recipe Suggestions**

1. **Traditional Sausage and Egg Casserole:** Sauté sausage until browned and combine with beaten eggs, milk, and cheddar cheese. Pour over cubed bread in a baking dish and chill overnight. Bake until the top is golden and set.

2. **Vegetarian Spinach and Feta Casserole:** Sauté spinach and onions, then mix with eggs, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Pour over a layer of hash browns and bake until solid.

3. **Blueberry French Toast Casserole:** Stack slices of bread with cream cheese and blueberries. Pour a blend of eggs, milk, and vanilla over the ensemble. Refrigerate overnight and bake until puffy and golden.

**Conclusion**

Breakfast casseroles that can be prepared ahead are invaluable for hectic mornings and festive occasions. With unlimited customization possibilities, they accommodate various palates and dietary requirements. By organizing and preparing early, you can savor a delicious, homemade breakfast without the morning frenzy. Whether it’s a weekday or a special holiday, these casseroles guarantee you begin your day with a gratifying meal.

# Ambrosia Salad: A Beloved Family Favorite

Ambrosia Salad, commonly known as the “food of the gods,” is a charming dish that has been a beloved family staple for generations. This airy and creamy salad, which can serve as a dessert, is a must-have at holiday festivities and potlucks. With just a few ingredients, it’s remarkably simple to make and adds a refreshing sweetness to any meal.

## What is Ambrosia Salad?

Ambrosia Salad is a special blend that merges tropical fruits with a creamy foundation, usually made from sour cream or yogurt. The traditional version includes pineapple, coconut, mandarin oranges, and miniature marshmallows, all blended to produce a sweet and tangy flavor combination.

### Key Features:
– **Flavor:** A delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and tropical notes.
– **Skill Level:** Easy to prepare, often referred to as a “5 cup salad” because of its five main components, and requires only about five minutes of preparation.
– **Swaps:** You can easily replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or modify the fruits according to your taste.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Perfect for potlucks, since it can be prepared in advance and served chilled.

## Ingredient Notes

1. **Yogurt/Sour Cream:** Traditionally, sour cream is utilized for its creamy tang, but plain or vanilla Greek yogurt can offer a sweeter option.
2. **Marshmallows:** Mini marshmallows provide a fluffy texture and sweetness. For a playful variation, consider fruit-flavored marshmallows.
3. **Fruit:** The traditional mix features shredded coconut, canned mandarin oranges, and pineapple chunks. Be sure to drain the fruit thoroughly to prevent a watery salad, and handle the mandarin oranges with care to keep them whole.

## Variations

– **Add Fruit:** Boost the salad by adding chopped maraschino cherries, fresh bananas, grapes, kiwi, or strawberries. You can also replace pineapple with peaches.
– **Add Nuts:** For extra crunch, include chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans.

## How to Make Ambrosia Salad

### Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, marshmallows, coconut, and pineapple tidbits. Stir until thoroughly blended.
2. Carefully fold in the mandarin oranges.
3. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld. Serve cold.

### Tips:
– Always drain canned fruit well to avoid excess moisture.
– Make the salad ahead of time to enhance flavor and soften the marshmallows.
– For a fluffier outcome, substitute half of the sour cream with whipped topping.
– Serve the salad in a glass trifle bowl for a beautiful holiday presentation.

## Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories:** 156
– **Carbohydrates:** 20g
– **Protein:** 1g
– **Fat:** 9g
– **Saturated Fat:** 6g
– **Cholesterol:** 17mg
– **Sodium:** 45mg
– **Potassium:** 152mg
– **Fiber:** 2g
– **Sugar:** 15g

Ambrosia Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic symbol of family gatherings and celebrations. With its vibrant hues and refreshing flavor, it’s sure to be a favorite at your next occasion. Savor this delightful treat and incorporate it into your family customs!