Creamy Ham And Macaroni Bake
Creamy ham and cheese baked pasta with asparagus and mushrooms offers comforting flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings with a savory, cheesy profile.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons flour ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
- 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 cups milk ⓘ
- 2 1/2 cups shredded American cheese ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen asparagus cuts, thawed and drained ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained
- 3 tablespoons dry bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped cooked ham ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, parsley flakes, dry mustard, and pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
- Gradually blend in milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Add shredded American cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Mix in cooked macaroni, chopped ham, thawed and drained asparagus, and drained sliced mushrooms.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with dry bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using a combination of cheddar and American cheese. If you're looking for a meatless option, substitute the ham with sautéed vegetables or use a plant-based protein. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes for a fun twist. For added flavor, try incorporating garlic or onion powder into the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy ham and macaroni bake is a comforting main dish that pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or a slice of Charlie Bread. If you're looking for a sweet finish, consider following with a dessert like Soft Peanut Brittle or Jenny'S Apple Short Cake to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to stir occasionally to heat evenly and avoid drying out the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Ham And Macaroni Bake contains roughly 1190 calories, with 19g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (57% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1752mg per serving (76% 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 cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While American cheese gives a smooth texture, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for the best results.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. You could also include vegetarian protein options like chickpeas or tofu for additional substance.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).