Ham And Pasta Bake
A comforting ham and pasta bake featuring a creamy cheese sauce, broccoli, and tender ham, perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, minced onions, salt, ground mustard, and pepper in a saucepan and add milk.
- Stir until blended and bring to a boil.
- Cook for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in cooked and drained chopped broccoli.
- Add cooked and drained elbow macaroni, cubed cooked ham, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Mix well and transfer to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any pasta shape works well. You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or peas. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the flavor. If you want a bit more spice, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This Ham and Pasta Bake is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for some extra flavor. For a comforting side, consider serving it with Cheesy Potatoes(For The Barbecue) for an indulgent meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the dish seems dry after reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and moisture. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Pasta Bake contains roughly 491 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1804mg per serving (78% 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?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend for varied flavor. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through completely.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. It's important to do this gradually to avoid making it too runny. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding more liquid.
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).