A comforting dish combines creamy cheese and savory ham with tender macaroni for a satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time1 hr
Difficulty
Hard
Kitchen Tricks
Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
Cook the macaroni just until al dente to avoid mushy pasta after baking.
Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.
Ingredients
0/12
Why This Recipe Works
A comforting blend of creamy cheese and savory ham, all baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The combination of flavors and textures always brings smiles to the table.
Step 1
Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 8 minutes. Drain it well.
Step 2
Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a big saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is combined. Slowly pour in the milk and let it come to a gentle simmer. Turn the heat down and keep whisking until the sauce thickens and starts bubbling, which should take around 5 minutes.
Step 3
Now, mix the cooked pasta, ham, and apple slices right into the sauce. Pour this cheesy mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
Step 4
In a small bowl, combine the soft bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 5
Pop it in the oven and bake until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown, about 35 minutes. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
210
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Creative Serving Ideas
Pair this hearty dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread also complements the cheesy goodness well.
Food Storage Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese creamy and avoid drying out the pasta. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Yes, you can use other short pasta like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I substitute the Granny Smith apples with another fruit?
Tart apples work best for balance, but you can try pears or even leave out the fruit if preferred.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it right before serving.
Can I use low-fat or plant-based milk in the sauce?
Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. Whole milk or cream will give the best texture.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Use fresh breadcrumbs and make sure to mix them well with melted butter before sprinkling.
Can I add more cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar will make it richer and more flavorful.
What can I use instead of brown mustard?
Dijon or yellow mustard are good alternatives and will provide similar tanginess.
How do I store leftovers and how long will they keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
This hearty stew is perfect for cozy evenings when you want a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow co...
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