Mac and Cheese with Ham

Ingredients

This is a pretty basic mac and cheese recipe that begins with a bechamel sauce made with butter, flour, and milk. I added both sharp yellow cheddar cheese and white cheddar for a total of 3 cups of cheese.

The cheese along with 1 pound of cooked pasta, (I used the traditional elbow but any shape will do), and diced ham are added to the bechamel. I also like to add a small amount of nutmeg for flavor.

Reader Comment

Laura- “Wow, this was delicious! Don’t skip out on that nutmeg either, it’s such a good addition! This is a new keeper for my recipe book!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Baked In The Oven

The whole mixture is poured into a casserole dish, topped with buttered Panko crumbs and baked until hot. If you like, you can add a little cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos to spice it up.

How To Make

(More detailed instructions in recipe card below.)

1. Melt butter and then whisk in flour. Cook 1 minute and then whisk in milk.
   
2. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes. Until thick and bubbly.
3. Add seasonings. Set aside 3/4 cup of cheese and add the rest into the milk mixture.
   
4. Remove from heat and stir in pasta and ham. Transfer to a baking dish and top with the cheese you set aside.
   
5. In a small bowl, mix together panko crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle on top.
   
6. Bake for 30 minutes.

How To Serve

Mac and Cheese with Ham is creamy and filling. Perfect comfort food for any time of year. Add a simple salad and you have a super easy, kid-friendly meal.

Storage

Best eaten shortly after it is made but leftovers will keep for 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If leftovers are a little dry, add a splash of milk or half-and-half before reheating.

More Mac and Cheese Recipes

• Super Creamy Mac And Cheese
• Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Mac and Cheese
• Flamin Cheetos Mac and Cheese
• Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
• Velvet Mac and Cheese
• Nacho Mac and Cheese

Originally posted Ovetover 26, 2014.