Ham And Mac Bake
Ham and Mac Bake is a comforting casserole combining tender elbow macaroni with flavorful cubed ham, enveloped in a creamy, rich sauce. Topped with crispy bread crumbs, this dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering a satisfying blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling, salted water until tender, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain.
- In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup margarine.
- Blend in flour, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk all at once and stir in sugar.
- Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in macaroni and ham.
- Turn into a 2-quart casserole.
- Combine crumbs and melted margarine, then sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. If you want to enhance the flavor, try using Dijon mustard instead of prepared mustard. You can also substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables. This dish is reminiscent of traditional American recipes like casseroles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty ham and mac bake with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the dish. For a comforting dessert, consider following it up with a slice of Kahlua Chocolate Cake. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Mac Bake contains roughly 203 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% 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 different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it remains al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftover ham is perfect for this dish, but you can also use it in soups, salads, or sandwiches. Consider making a breakfast hash with diced ham, potatoes, and eggs, or add it to your favorite pasta salad for extra flavor.
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).