Ham And Macaroni Casserole
A comforting ham and macaroni casserole with sweet apple slices and a crispy bread crumb topping, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni and drain.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter, then blend in flour, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Add milk; cook and stir until thick and bubbly.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, cubed ham, and sliced apples.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter, then add bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35 minutes, or microwave at full power for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheese in place of some of the bread crumbs. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, try adding a handful of raisins or substituting the apples with diced pears. This recipe is versatile, allowing for ingredient swaps based on what you have on hand, like using leftover turkey instead of ham for a twist on traditional Pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with Grandma'S String Beans for a complete meal. Consider offering a side salad or crusty bread to round out the dining experience, making it a comforting option for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the top from getting too brown.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 791 calories, with 12g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1929mg per serving (84% 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 prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you're looking for an alternative to macaroni, consider using penne or rotini pasta, which hold the sauce well. Gluten-free pasta is also an excellent option if you have dietary restrictions. The cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust as needed.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, you can substitute whole wheat macaroni for a fiber boost. Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of butter. Adding more vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, can also enhance the nutritional value while keeping it delicious.
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).