Macaroni, Ham And Cheese Casserole
A comforting baked macaroni and cheese casserole with ham, featuring creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy bread crumb topping. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil, add macaroni and cook until tender.
- Drain the macaroni and set aside.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over moderate heat.
- Add flour and cook, stirring until the mixture froths and foams.
- Add milk all at once and stir until thickened.
- Pour the sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir in the cooked macaroni, diced ham, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs, remaining cheese, and melted butter.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of mustard powder or garlic powder to the cheese sauce. If you want a creamier texture, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream. You can also use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. For a twist, try adding vegetables like peas or broccoli, which pair well with ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Macaroni, Ham And Cheese Casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Ham Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread or rolls. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, bringing comfort and satisfaction to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can add a splash of milk before reheating to help restore creaminess. This casserole also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Ham And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1231 calories, with 50g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (99% of the Daily Value), calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it's cooked al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, as it will be cold from the refrigerator.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add a flavorful cheese like feta for an extra kick.
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).