Indulge in Comfort: Baked Mac and Cheese with Ham
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our irresistible Baked Mac and Cheese with Ham recipe. This hearty dish combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ham, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this mac and cheese will surely satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pro Tip: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, diced ham, and cheese sauce. Mix until the pasta and ham are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations, such as adding fontina, Swiss, or Monterey Jack cheese to the mix.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the diced ham with cooked bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the elbow macaroni with low-carb pasta alternatives like shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles.
- Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for the cheese sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
- Swap out the elbow macaroni for cauliflower florets or broccoli florets to reduce the carb content.
- Omit the breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds as a low-carb alternative for the breadcrumb topping.
In conclusion, our Baked Mac and Cheese with Ham recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and savory ham for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this indulgent dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Give it a try and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: While elbow macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta shape you choose.
