This comforting Swiss Cheese & Ham Macaroni & Cheese combines a velvety béchamel sauce with nutty Swiss cheese and savory ham cubes for a hearty, satisfying meal. The addition of frozen peas adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich, creamy texture. ItâÂÂs the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight feast. The baked topping gives it a delightful golden crunch, while the melted cheese pulls together every bite. Simple ingredients come together to create a nostalgic, home-style favorite that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Swiss Cheese & Ham Macaroni & Cheese
Description
This comforting Swiss Cheese & Ham Macaroni & Cheese combines a velvety b&# 195;©chamel sauce with nutty Swiss cheese and savory ham cubes for a hearty, satisfying meal. The addition of frozen peas adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich, creamy texture. ItâÂÂs the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight feast. The baked topping gives it a delightful golden crunch, while the melted cheese pulls together every bite. Simple ingredients come together to create a nostalgic, home-style favorite that appeals to both kids and adults alike.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC).
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Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place in a large bowl.
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In a 2- to 3-quart sauce pot, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
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Slowly whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps, until smooth.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
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Add salt, white pepper, and ground nutmeg to taste. Simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
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Remove sauce from heat and stir in grated Swiss cheese until fully melted.
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Add cubed ham and thawed frozen petite peas to the sauce, stirring to combine.
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Pour the cheese sauce mixture over the drained macaroni and toss until evenly coated.
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Transfer the macaroni mixture to an 11x8x2 inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the sauce is bubbly.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 150.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.0g14%
- Saturated Fat 5.7g29%
- Cholesterol 23.1mg8%
- Sodium 32.4mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 13.5g5%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 4.0g
- Protein 4.1g9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ingredient substitutions: You can use Gruyère or Emmental instead of Swiss cheese for a similar nutty flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the ham or substitute with diced mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ðF for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
Tip: To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, you can add a splash of extra milk when reheating.