Macaroni And Cheese With Ham
Creamy, cheesy macaroni layered with savory ham and sautéed onions, baked to perfection with a golden topping, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer into a buttered 1 1/2 to 2-quart baking dish three layers each of cooked macaroni, sautéed onion, ham, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle each layer with salt and pepper, ending with a top layer of cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour milk over the layered mixture.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 45 minutes or until brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also use a different cheese such as Gruyère or mozzarella for a unique flavor twist. For added crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Surprise Grilled Cheese Sandwiches for a comforting lunch. For a heartier dinner, offer some crusty bread or garlic knots alongside. A light white wine can complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the macaroni and cheese to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese With Ham contains roughly 529 calories, with 23g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1466mg per serving (64% 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 macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble it up to the point before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When 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 type of macaroni works best for this recipe?
Traditional elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or cavatappi. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before layering, as it will continue to cook in the oven and absorb some of the sauce.
Can I freeze leftover macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze leftover macaroni and cheese. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
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).