Ham and Peas Mac and Cheese

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Ham and Peas Mac and Cheese recipe is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. Featuring a rich and velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère, this dish gets a hearty boost from tender bites of diced ham and bursts of sweetness from vibrant peas. Perfectly al dente elbow macaroni is enveloped in the luscious sauce, making every bite indulgent yet balanced. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy mac and cheese recipe comes together in just 35 minutes and serves as a complete meal or a show-stopping side dish. Garnish with a dash of paprika for a pop of color and subtle smoky flavor, and get ready to savor the ultimate cheesy comfort.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 3 cups Whole milk
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup Frozen peas, thawed
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Do not let it brown.

Step 3

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for 4-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5

Add the cooked ham and thawed peas to the cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika, if using.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat all the pasta evenly.

Step 8

Serve hot and garnish with an extra sprinkle of paprika, if desired. Enjoy your creamy Ham and Peas Mac and Cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1944.4 grams (1944.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4122

Total Fat 200.40g	257%
Saturated Fat 114.80g	574%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.80g
Cholesterol 709mg	236%
Sodium 7898mg	343%
Total Carbohydrate 354.40g	129%
Dietary Fiber 24.90g	89%
Total Sugars 62.60g
Protein 226.80g	454%

Vitamin D 394IU	1971%
Calcium 3664mg	282%
Iron 20mg	111%
Potassium 2595mg	55%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.7%

Protein: 22.0%

Carbs: 34.3%