Creamy Mac and Cheese with Ham, Peas, and Shallots: A Comfort Food Upgrade
Macaroni and cheese is a timeless classic, a dish that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and pure comfort. While the simple combination of pasta and cheese sauce is undeniably satisfying, there’s always room for improvement. This recipe takes the traditional mac and cheese and elevates it with the addition of savory ham, sweet peas, and subtly pungent shallots, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or any occasion that calls for a cheesy, delicious indulgence.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it balances the rich, creamy cheese sauce with complementary flavors and textures. The ham adds a salty, savory element that cuts through the richness of the cheese. The peas provide a touch of sweetness and freshness, while the shallots contribute a mild, oniony flavor that enhances the overall complexity of the dish. Using a combination of cheeses creates a more nuanced and flavorful sauce. Finally, the breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all of your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
* **Pasta:** 1 pound elbow macaroni (or other short pasta shape, such as cavatappi, shells, or penne)
* **Butter:** 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
* **Shallots:** 2 medium shallots, finely minced
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/4 cup
* **Milk:** 3 cups whole milk (or a combination of whole milk and half-and-half for extra richness)
* **Heavy Cream:** 1/2 cup (optional, but recommended for extra creaminess)
* **Cheese:** 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 4 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded (or other melting cheese, such as Monterey Jack or fontina); 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
* **Ham:** 1 cup cooked ham, diced
* **Peas:** 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Breadcrumbs:** 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
* **Fresh Parsley:** 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment You’ll Need
* Large pot
* Colander
* Large saucepan or Dutch oven
* Whisk
* Wooden spoon or spatula
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Small skillet (for breadcrumb topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious mac and cheese with ham, peas, and shallots.
**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
* Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
**Step 2: Prepare the Shallots and Ham**
* While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the minced shallots and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to brown them.
* Add the diced ham to the saucepan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned and heated through. Remove the ham and shallots from the saucepan and set aside.
**Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce**
* In the same saucepan, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
* Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream (if using), making sure to break up any lumps.
* Continue whisking until the sauce comes to a simmer and thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
* Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not boil the sauce.
* Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt content of the ham, and adjust accordingly.
**Step 4: Combine the Ingredients**
* Add the cooked pasta, ham and shallots, and thawed peas to the cheese sauce.
* Stir gently to combine, ensuring that all of the ingredients are evenly coated in the sauce.
**Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)**
* Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
* Add the panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the breadcrumbs.
* Remove from heat and set aside.
**Step 6: Bake the Mac and Cheese**
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Sprinkle the toasted breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
* Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
* Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the finished dish. Cook the pasta al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite.
* **Use High-Quality Cheese:** The quality of the cheese will directly impact the flavor of the mac and cheese. Use good-quality cheddar and Gruyere for the best results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shred your own cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
* **Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce:** Gradually add the milk and cheese to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. Do not boil the cheese sauce, as this can cause it to separate.
* **Customize the Ingredients:** Feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking. You can use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, fontina, or Havarti. You can also add other vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
* **Prepare Ahead:** You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and bake it later. Assemble the dish in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Vegetarian Mac and Cheese:** Omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or mushrooms.
* **Spicy Mac and Cheese:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
* **Lobster Mac and Cheese:** Add cooked lobster meat to the mac and cheese for a luxurious treat.
* **Bacon Mac and Cheese:** Substitute the ham with cooked and crumbled bacon.
* **Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese:** Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
* **Different Cheese Combinations:** Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Some good options include cheddar and Gruyere, cheddar and Monterey Jack, or cheddar and fontina.
* **Different Pasta Shapes:** While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can use other short pasta shapes, such as cavatappi, shells, or penne.
Serving Suggestions
Mac and cheese with ham, peas, and shallots is a complete meal on its own. However, it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich mac and cheese.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots, add nutrients and flavor to the meal.
* **Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to mac and cheese.
* **Coleslaw:** Coleslaw adds a crunchy and tangy element to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
**Storage:**
* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
**Reheating:**
* **Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if the mac and cheese is dry.
* **Microwave:** Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk or cream if the mac and cheese is dry.
* **Stovetop:** Place the mac and cheese in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir occasionally until heated through.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
* Calories: 600-700
* Protein: 30-35g
* Fat: 35-40g
* Carbohydrates: 50-55g
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.*
Conclusion
This mac and cheese with ham, peas, and shallots is a delicious and satisfying upgrade to the classic comfort food. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, savory ham, sweet peas, and pungent shallots creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy a bowl of cheesy, delicious goodness!