Creamy Macaroni And Ham Bake
A creamy, savory baked macaroni and ham dish featuring a cheesy sauce, green onions, and a crispy bread crumb topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese dinner according to package instructions.
- Add ham cubes, sour cream, green onion slices, mustard, and caraway seed to the cooked macaroni and cheese.
- Mix lightly until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a 10 x 6-inch baking dish.
- Top with torn bread crumbs and drizzle with squeeze margarine.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra dollop of sour cream or mixing in some shredded cheese. If you're out of ham, cooked chicken or turkey can be a great substitute. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For added flavor, try incorporating spices like paprika or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy macaroni and ham bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of Barnett Salad Dressing on the side. It also makes for a comforting side dish at potlucks alongside main courses like Pork Chops And Apple Stuffing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and ham bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Macaroni And Ham Bake contains roughly 339 calories, with 16g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and ham bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, uncover, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt or a cream cheese mixture can serve as excellent substitutes. Both will provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to sour cream, enhancing the richness of the dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this creamy macaroni and ham bake. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake in the oven until heated through.
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).