Macaroni with Ham and Cheese Sauce

This comforting dish combines macaroni with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and savory ham, making it a delightful and hearty meal for any occasion. The creamy texture of the cheese sauce perfectly coats the macaroni, while the ham adds a satisfying, savory note. This recipe is simple enough for a weekday meal but indulgent enough to serve guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. It's also versatile, allowing for different types of pasta, cheeses, or additions like vegetables. Perfectly paired with a fresh green salad, it offers a well-rounded dining experience. This dish not only satisfies but also provides comfort and warmth, making it a timeless classic. With thoughtful variations and serving suggestions, it's easy to adapt to personal tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 350 g of ham or sausage
• 250 g of cheese
• Macaroni
• Sweet cream

Preparation Time

Total preparation and cook time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain them and return them to the pot.
2. While the macaroni is cooking, dice the ham or sausage into small pieces.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the diced ham. Fry until the pieces are golden brown and crispy.
4. Grate the cheese, setting aside a small handful for topping.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the sweet cream with the fried ham, mixing well.
6. Pour the cream and ham mixture over the drained macaroni in the pot.
7. Add the grated cheese into the pot with the macaroni and ham mixture.
8. Stir everything together over low heat until the cheese has completely melted and formed a creamy sauce.
9. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash more of the cream or a bit of pasta cooking water.
10. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
11. Transfer the cheesy macaroni into serving bowls.
12. Sprinkle the reserved grated cheese over the top for an extra cheesy layer.
13. Serve immediately while hot to ensure the sauce remains creamy.
14. For a golden crust, you can transfer the pasta into a baking dish, sprinkle more cheese on top, and broil for a few minutes.
15. Ensure not to burn the topping by keeping an eye on it when broiling.
16. If desired, garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives for color and freshness.
17. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
18. Reheat leftovers on the stove with a dash of cream to loosen the sauce.
19. Enjoy your delicious and comforting macaroni with ham and cheese sauce.
20. Serve alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips

• Cheese Selection: Use a blend of cheeses for a complex flavor, such as cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the cheese sauce for extra depth.
• Pasta Substitutes: Any short pasta shape like penne or rigatoni will work well.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ham with sautéed mushrooms or grilled bell peppers.
• Cream Substitute: Use half-and-half or milk with a little butter if you don't have sweet cream.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

• Spicy: Add chopped chili or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Low-Fat: Opt for a low-fat cheese and cream to reduce calorie content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairing: A crisp white wine or a light-bodied red complements the richness of the dish.
• Side Dishes: Fresh green salad with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a fresh touch.

Best Places

1. The Cheese Bar - Known for its fondue-like cheese pasta dishes. Location: Camden Market, London, United Kingdom.
2. Macbar - Offers a variety of mac and cheese creations. Location: Prince Street, New York, United States.
3. Perfect Macaroni Co. - Famous for their innovative pasta recipes. Location: Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, United States.
4. Cheese Paradise - A local favorite for cheesy meals. Location: Rue Montorgueil, Paris, France.
5. Ham & Cheese Bistro - Specializes in ham and cheese pairings. Location: Dorsoduro, Venice, Italy.
6. Fromage & Co. - Offers gourmet cheese dishes. Location: Rue Cler, Paris, France.
7. Pasta Delight - Known for their unique pasta bake variations. Location: Via Dante, Milan, Italy.
8. Creamy Italian - Serves classic Italian pasta dishes. Location: North End, Boston, United States.
9. Sapore Cheese Café - Popular for its international cheese selections. Location: Carlton, Melbourne, Australia.
10. Gourmet Bites - Features artisan cheese and ham dishes. Location: Friedrichstrasse, Berlin, Germany.