Christmas Mac & Cheese With Ham & Cranberries
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, for topping (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for breadcrumbs, optional)
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
9. Add the cooked macaroni, diced ham, and cranberry sauce to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
10. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
11. If desired, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
13. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Elevating Your Christmas Mac & Cheese
Mac & Cheese is a staple comfort food. Adding ham and cranberries transforms it into a festive holiday dish. This recipe provides a fantastic starting point.
### Choosing the Right Cheese
Cheddar provides that classic mac & cheese flavor. Gruyere adds a nutty, complex dimension. Consider using a blend of cheeses to create unique profiles. Fontina, Gouda, or even a touch of smoked Gouda can be excellent additions. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose. This prevents it from melting as smoothly. Shred your own cheese for the best results.
### Enhancing the Ham and Cranberries
Use high-quality cooked ham for optimal flavor. A smoked ham would deepen the smokiness. You can dice it into small or large pieces based on your preference. Consider sautéing the ham briefly before adding it to the mac & cheese. This adds a slight crispness and intensifies the flavor.
Cranberry sauce adds a touch of sweetness and tartness. Use homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference. A chunky cranberry sauce adds more texture. You can also mix in a little orange zest for added flavor and aroma.
### Perfecting the Sauce
The key to creamy mac & cheese is a smooth, lump-free sauce. Use a whisk to continuously stir the roux. Add the milk gradually. Low and slow is key to avoid scorching the sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta, or it will become mushy.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your dietary needs. It allows you to experiment with different ingredients.
### Dietary Modifications
For a vegetarian option, omit the ham entirely. Consider adding roasted vegetables such as butternut squash or Brussels sprouts. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free macaroni. Ensure the flour used for the roux is also gluten-free, such as a 1:1 blend.
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. Many great options are available now, made from cashews, almonds, or soy. However, the flavor and texture will differ from traditional dairy versions.
### Ingredient Swaps
Don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients. Try using different types of pasta shapes. Cavatappi, shells, or penne work well. Replace the ham with cooked turkey or sausage.
Experiment with different types of berries. Blueberries or raspberries can be substituted for cranberries. Adjust the sweetness level based on your preference. A touch of maple syrup or honey can enhance the flavors.
Serving and Storage
Proper serving and storage ensures the leftovers are just as enjoyable as the first serving.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve the mac & cheese hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. Consider pairing it with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
For a more elegant presentation, bake the mac & cheese in individual ramekins. This also helps with portion control. A crusty bread would complement the creamy texture perfectly.
### Storage and Reheating
Store leftover mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent it from drying out. Microwave or bake until heated through.
Freezing mac & cheese is not recommended, as the texture can become grainy. However, if you must freeze it, cool it completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing components ahead of time can simplify the cooking process. This makes it easier to manage during busy holiday gatherings.
### Prepping the Ingredients
Cook the macaroni ahead of time. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Shred the cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Dice the ham and prepare the cranberry sauce a day in advance.
### Assembling in Advance
You can assemble the mac & cheese completely ahead of time. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even experienced cooks encounter occasional hiccups. Here are some solutions to common mac & cheese problems.
### Dry Mac & Cheese
If the mac & cheese is dry, add more milk or cream to the sauce. Stir well and bake for a shorter amount of time. Using a higher ratio of cheese to pasta can also help prevent dryness.
### Grainy Sauce
A grainy sauce is often caused by overheating the cheese. Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the milk can help stabilize the sauce.
### Bland Flavor
If the mac & cheese lacks flavor, add more salt, pepper, or other spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a touch of heat. Consider using a sharper cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta that you prefer. Elbow macaroni, cavatappi, shells, and penne are all great options.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mac & cheese completely ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze this mac & cheese?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture can become grainy. However, if you must freeze it, cool it completely first, wrap it tightly, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?
Fontina, Gouda, or even a touch of smoked Gouda can be excellent substitutes for Gruyere cheese.
How do I prevent the sauce from being grainy?
Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the milk can also help stabilize the sauce.
