Macaroni with Gruyere Cheese Serrano Ham and Leeks Recipe
Elevate your comfort food game with this irresistible Macaroni with Gruyere Cheese, Serrano Ham, and Leeks recipe—a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite. This dish combines the creaminess of a rich Gruyere cheese sauce with the savory bite of thinly sliced Serrano ham and the mild sweetness of sautéed leeks, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Tender macaroni is coated in a velvety roux-based sauce, spiced with just a hint of nutmeg for depth, and garnished with fresh parsley for vibrant color. Ideal for cozy family dinners or small gatherings, this gourmet macaroni and cheese recipe is both indulgent and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes. Serve it warm for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 grams macaroni
- 200 grams Gruyere cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 500 milliliters whole milk
- 2 medium leeks (white and light green parts only)
- 150 grams Serrano ham, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, trim and clean the leeks. Slice them into thin rounds.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Gruyere cheese. Mix until melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Return the drained macaroni to the pot and pour the cheese sauce over it. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
Gently fold in the sautéed leeks and half of the Serrano ham slices. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual bowls.
Garnish with the remaining Serrano ham slices on top and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
657 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 38.7 g | 50% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.3 g | 102% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 107 mg | 36% | |
| Sodium | 1687 mg | 73% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 41.9 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.2 g | ||
| Protein | 36.0 g | 72% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.8 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 696 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 582 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.
