Macaroni, Ham And Cheese Casserole(Great For A Chilly Night!)
A comforting baked pasta casserole featuring ham, cheddar cheese, and creamy sauce, perfect for chilly nights and satisfying family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and drain.
- Put the cooked pasta in a greased 13 x 9-inch dish.
- Sauté the onion.
- Toss the pasta with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Add the sautéed onion and cubed ham to the pasta.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan; add flour and blend well.
- Gradually add milk; stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt and pepper to the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle buttered bread crumbs on top (optional).
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the Cheddar with a mix of mozzarella and Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. This casserole can also be prepared ahead of time and baked right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a side of garlic bread or a dollop of spicy mustard. It also goes well with a light soup, making it a perfect choice for chilly nights when you want something comforting and satisfying.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover macaroni, ham, and cheese casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for convenience. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help revive the creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Ham And Cheese Casserole(Great For A Chilly Night!) contains roughly 388 calories, with 7g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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?
Absolutely! While tubular pasta works well for holding the cheese sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the type of pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also enhance the flavor by including some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini. This will still provide a delicious and satisfying dish without the meat.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this macaroni, ham, and cheese casserole ahead of time, simply follow the recipe up until baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).