Indulge in a comforting bowl of White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese with Ham and Peas—a dish that takes the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level! This American favorite combines creamy, rich white cheddar with savory ham and sweet peas, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is not just delicious; it's also incredibly easy to whip up in just 45 minutes. Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce. Melt butter over medium heat until it becomes foamy.
- Sprinkle flour into the melted butter, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This helps thicken the sauce.
- Gradually pour milk into the roux, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate seasonings.
- Drain cooked pasta in a colander, then return to the original pot.
- Add diced ham and frozen peas to the pasta.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, ham, and peas. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
- Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow peas to warm through and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, directly from the pot, garnishing with additional black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, be sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it's al dente. This will help it hold up better when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Make a Smooth Roux: When preparing the cheese sauce, whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly to avoid lumps. This will ensure a velvety smooth sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded white cheddar cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of white cheddar and sharp cheddar.
- Customize Your Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even switch out the ham for cooked bacon or chicken for a different twist.
- Let It Rest: After mixing in the cheese sauce, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the peas are warmed through.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish to new heights.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every cheesy bite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 70mg
