Macaroni Ham Bake
A comforting baked macaroni and ham casserole with creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings, offering savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cooked macaroni in a buttered baking dish.
- Mix together the cream of celery soup, milk, grated onion, half of the grated cheese, and half of the diced cooked ham.
- Pour the mixture over the macaroni in the baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese and diced ham.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup or any other cream soup you prefer. If you don't have sharp cheese, try using cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of paprika or black pepper can also enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni Ham Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside Lorraine'S Calico Beans for a hearty spread. For a comforting family dinner, add some garlic bread or crusty rolls. A light dessert, like fruit salad, can round out the meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered baking dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Ham Bake contains roughly 707 calories, with 17g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1303mg per serving (57% 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 meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor. Just ensure that the meat is cooked before adding it to the dish. This recipe is versatile and allows for various protein options, making it suitable for different tastes.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ham with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use a plant-based cream soup and cheese alternatives to keep the dish creamy and flavorful while catering to a vegetarian diet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Macaroni Ham Bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
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).