Meatless Monday....

Have any of you become part of the "Meatless Monday" effort?  When I consider a meatless meal, my first thought goes to Macaroni and Cheese!

This version follows a recipe I jotted down, listing no source in the process.  What appealed to me was the fact that it is made all in one pot on top of the stove.

Ingredients needed are milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and elbow macaroni, of course.  Not pictured, but added are a healthy pinch of both cayenne and nutmeg, along with salt.

First, place four cups of whole milk (I used a combination of whole and skim) and 3 cups of macaroni in a deep pan.  On medium heat, bring to a boil, stirring frequently to keep the macaroni from clumping together.  This takes awhile, particularly if you are starting with milk that is cold from the refrigerator.  You will have to taste test the macaroni along to see when it reaches that just tender stage.  Stir often, checking for consistency.  It will thicken as it cooks.

In this picture, you are able to see that the macaroni is beginning to show signs of gradual cooking.

Cube 2 oz. of cream cheese and 2 Tablespoons of butter to be ready to stir into the pan of macaroni.  Also, measure out one cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese.  These will be added, along with 8 oz. of shredded mild Cheddar cheese when the macaroni tests done.

Here it is, ready to add the cheeses, butter, cayenne, nutmeg, and desired salt. 

Grab your plate, and serve yourself!  It's ready to eat!

I found a need to thin this just a bit with some hot water as it seemed to set up quickly! 

Accompany this with your choice of vegetables/salad!

What is your favorite meatless meal?