Cheese And Macaroni
Creamy cheese and ham baked macaroni dish with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a hearty, cheesy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until done.
- Drain the macaroni.
- Cut up the cheese into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked macaroni, cheese, eggs, sour cream, butter, salt, and ham pieces.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish (2-quart or larger).
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mixture. You can substitute the extra sharp cheese with cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. If you want to add some vegetables, try mixing in steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. To enhance the flavor, a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can be added before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese And Macaroni dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture. For a fun twist, top the casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping. It's a comforting choice that fits well within American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Macaroni contains roughly 706 calories, with 17g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1880mg per serving (82% 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 pasta?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even egg noodles. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the desired tenderness.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ham and replace it with vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. Adding a bit of smoked paprika can also give it a savory depth without meat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).