Baked Macaroni, Ham And Cheese
A creamy, hearty baked macaroni dish combined with tender ham and sharp cheese, offering rich flavors and comforting textures. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it pairs well with a simple salad or vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Add flour and stir until smooth.
- Gradually add hot milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens; then add salt and cayenne pepper.
- Pour the cream sauce over cooked macaroni.
- Layer creamed macaroni, ham, and cheese in a greased double boiler insert, sprinkling cheese on top.
- Place the insert over boiling water in a Dutch oven, cover, and steam for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce. If you don’t have sharp cheese, a mild cheddar or a blend can work as a substitute. To elevate the flavor, try adding some sautéed onions or garlic. If you prefer a crunch, top with breadcrumbs before steaming.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Macaroni, Ham And Cheese pairs beautifully with a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread for added texture and flavor. For a twist, serve it with a glass of your favorite white wine or a light beer to complement the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the macaroni in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Macaroni, Ham And Cheese contains roughly 1328 calories, with 14g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 130g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (101% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2681mg per serving (117% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add depth without the meat.
What can I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?
If your cheese sauce turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little more hot milk until you reach your desired consistency. This will help smooth it out without compromising flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture and layer it in the greased boiler insert. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to steam it. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
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).