Macaroni And Ham Scallop
A creamy and hearty macaroni and ham casserole with cheddar cheese and a flavorful mustard-spiced sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt 2 tablespoons of margarine in a saucepan.
- Saute minced onion until tender.
- Add flour, salt, dry mustard, paprika, and pepper; stir well.
- Slowly stir in milk and cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened.
- Mix the sauce with cooked macaroni and diced ham.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and dot with remaining margarine.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don't have margarine, butter works just as well. You can also add vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition. For a bit of zing, try adding a dash of hot sauce or using smoked paprika. This dish can be a great way to use up leftover ham from recipes like Ham And Cheese Whirlers.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni And Ham Scallop pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. Consider offering a side of Chile Corn Chowder for a comforting, hearty meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Ham Scallop contains roughly 413 calories, with 20g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (332% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (151% of the Daily Value), and iron (142% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1367mg per serving (59% 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 pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish based on what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the sauce. Ensure your margarine and any additional ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without gluten.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. This makes it perfect for busy nights or gatherings.
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).