Imagine a dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic mac and cheese with savory, tender ham – a meal so irresistible that it'll have your family racing to the dinner table! This Mac and Cheese Ham Casserole isn't just another ordinary recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering experience that will become an instant family favorite. Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make, incredibly delicious casserole that promises to satisfy every craving.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Add 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and sauce is creamy.
- Add cooked macaroni and diced ham to the cheese sauce. Gently fold together until pasta and ham are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- For extra creaminess, use a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and mild monterey jack.
- Make sure to whisk your roux continuously to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Let the pasta be slightly undercooked when boiling, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Use high-quality diced ham or leftover holiday ham for the best flavor.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
