Macaroni With Ham And Cheese
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender macaroni layered with ham, creamy Velveeta cheese, and a lemon-infused egg custard, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water for 12 minutes.
- Drain the macaroni.
- Arrange layers of macaroni, chopped ham, and Velveeta cheese in a greased baking dish, dotting each layer with butter.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and add milk, 1 teaspoon of melted butter, and chopped lemon peel.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered macaroni and ham.
- Place the baking dish in hot water and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the egg mixture. If you don’t have Velveeta, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor. Don’t skip the nutmeg; it adds a warm, aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni with ham and cheese is delightful on its own, but you can serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Tangy Potato Salad With Bacon for a hearty lunch. For a complete dinner, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of roasted asparagus.
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 until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni With Ham And Cheese contains roughly 429 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives a creamy texture, you can substitute it with a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a more traditional flavor. Just ensure to adjust the quantities to match the melting properties of the cheese you choose.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. You could also add beans for protein, making it a hearty meal that fits well with American recipes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it well to prevent drying. When you’re ready to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
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).