Imagine a creamy, cheesy paradise that combines the classic comfort of mac and cheese with savory, tender ham - all ready in just 20 minutes! This Velveeta Ham and Cheese Mac is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta's flavor.
- Pour the elbow macaroni into the boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, dice the ham into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/4 inch in size. Set aside.
- Cut the Velveeta cheese into small, even cubes to ensure smooth and quick melting.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander, shaking to remove excess water. Return the pasta to the warm pot.
- Add milk to the pot with the drained pasta. Stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place the pot back on low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and creates a smooth, creamy sauce, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Gently fold in the diced ham, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional black pepper or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly boiled pasta for the best texture - make sure to cook it al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Cut Velveeta and ham into uniform, small cubes to ensure even melting and distribution.
- Stir continuously when adding cheese to prevent burning and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Keep the heat low when melting cheese to maintain a silky consistency.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or some green onions as a garnish.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 507kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 77mg
