Macaroni And Cheese(Family Style)
Creamy, cheesy macaroni with ham and onions, baked to perfection—an indulgent family favorite that combines comforting flavors and a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown ham in butter.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 3/4 cup cheese.
- Heat until cheese melts, stirring often.
- Blend sauce with cooked macaroni; pour into buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes or until browned and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or mustard to the cheese sauce. If you don't have ham, diced cooked chicken or even sautéed vegetables can be great substitutes. To enhance creaminess, use a mix of cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella along with sharp cheese. You can also try adding some cooked broccoli or spinach for a touch of green.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed with Avocado Dressing And Dip for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside Fabulous Corn Bread for a comforting meal. Consider adding some sliced tomatoes or a light vegetable medley to balance out the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese(Family Style) contains roughly 516 calories, with 14g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 553mg per serving (24% 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 macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is traditional, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even cream cheese for added creaminess. Experimenting with different cheeses can enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?
Yes, you can freeze macaroni and cheese! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).