Sunshine Ham And Mac
Sunshine Ham and Mac is a creamy, cheesy dish packed with tender ham, green peppers, and a rich cheddar sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its comforting flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with deliciousness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions to have 2 cups. Drain.
- In a large saucepan, sauté onion in butter until tender. Stir in flour and salt.
- Gradually stir in evaporated milk and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture comes to a boil and thickens.
- Remove from heat.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese; stir until melted.
- Add prepared mustard, cooked chopped ham, minced green pepper, and cooked macaroni. Heat to serving temperature or pour into a 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- To heat in the oven, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a touch of cream cheese or sour cream along with the Cheddar. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer. If you're looking for a bit more flavor, try incorporating some garlic powder or smoked paprika. This dish is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as a hearty main course, perfect alongside a light salad like B & B Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread. For a fun twist, consider serving it with some crusty bread for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed, which helps maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunshine Ham And Mac contains roughly 749 calories, with 22g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2682mg per serving (117% 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 is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of your favorites to create a unique flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this ham and mac dish can be frozen. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like spinach or broccoli. You can also reduce the amount of ham or use a leaner cut to cut down on sodium.
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).