Ham and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni
Elevate your comfort food game with this irresistible Ham and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni recipe! Perfectly al dente macaroni is smothered in a creamy, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and parmesan, then combined with savory bites of diced ham for an extra layer of hearty flavor. With the option to finish it off with a golden breadcrumb topping for added crunch, this dish is a satisfying balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory in every bite. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an easy yet indulgent dinner that’s perfect for family meals, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Packed with flavor and customizable with a paprika twist, this baked mac and cheese will be your go-to comfort classic!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 16 oz macaroni pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 1.5 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp paprika (optional)
- 0.5 cups breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes while whisking, ensuring the mixture does not brown.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni pasta, cheese sauce, and diced ham. Mix until the pasta and ham are evenly coated in the sauce.
If baking with a breadcrumb topping: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the dish is heated through.
Serve hot and enjoy your Ham and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
870 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.6 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.8 g | 119% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 138 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 1672 mg | 73% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 76.6 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.3 g | ||
| Protein | 46.5 g | 93% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.5 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 685 mg | 53% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 545 mg | 12% | |
*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.
