Macaroni With Ham Or Chicken And Broccoli
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring ham or chicken, broccoli, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheese—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cubed cooked ham or chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thawed broccoli, sour cream, and shredded cheese; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 minutes.
- Remove the foil, top with additional shredded cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the ham or chicken with cooked turkey for a different twist. Adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before the final baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad Ambrosia for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a more filling dinner, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes.
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) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni With Ham Or Chicken And Broccoli contains roughly 511 calories, with 22g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (53% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg 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 cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar or Swiss cheese are great choices, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to mix different cheeses to create a unique taste profile.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze this macaroni dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the recipe instructions.
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).