Macaroni With Ham-Broccoli
Creamy and hearty, this macaroni with ham and broccoli combines tender pasta, savory ham, and fresh broccoli in a cheesy mushroom soup sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, it's a delicious way to enjoy familiar flavors with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- While the macaroni cooks, combine cream of mushroom, celery or broccoli soup, milk, and shredded cheese in a large saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Add cooked cubed ham and frozen chopped broccoli to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the sauce mixture.
- Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra half cup of sour cream or using a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella for a milder flavor. If you prefer a bit of crunch, top the dish with breadcrumbs before baking. You can also swap out the ham for leftover chicken or turkey, making it a versatile dish that fits well within American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or rolls for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with Swiss Cheese Appetizers as a starter to complement the cheesy flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and prevent drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni With Ham-Broccoli contains roughly 511 calories, with 20g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (51% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just steam it briefly until tender before adding it to the sauce. This will enhance the flavor and provide a fresher texture to the dish.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can make a homemade version using a roux with milk and mushrooms, or substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup for a different but still delicious flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, assembling it in a baking dish, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it until bubbly and golden, which makes it perfect for meal prep 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).