Cheese Cheese Macaroni and Cheese and Ham and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this decadent "Cheese Cheese Macaroni and Cheese and Ham and Cheese" recipe, a cheesy masterpiece that takes classic macaroni and cheese to extraordinary heights! Packed with layers of gooey sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan, every bite is rich, velvety, and satisfying. The addition of hearty, diced ham adds a savory twist, while a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping creates a perfect golden crust. Infused with Dijon mustard and garlic powder for a touch of bold flavor, this baked delight is a crowd-pleasing meal that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Ready in just 45 minutes, this creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly crispy dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your table!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz Elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 3 cups Whole milk
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1.5 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup Cooked ham, diced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and can coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Gently fold the cooked macaroni and diced ham into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil until lightly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheese Cheese Macaroni and Cheese and Ham and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5930 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 324.4 g | 416% | |
| Saturated Fat | 176.0 g | 880% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1001 mg | 334% | |
| Sodium | 14079 mg | 612% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 465.1 g | 169% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.4 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 61.9 g | ||
| Protein | 260.5 g | 521% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.3 mcg | 46% | |
| Calcium | 4197 mg | 323% | |
| Iron | 24.4 mg | 136% | |
| Potassium | 2168 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
