Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni Noodles: 500g
- Cheese: 250g (any favorite cheese, like Cheddar or Mozzarella)
- Ham: 200g (sliced or diced)
- Peas: 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
- Shallots: 5 (chopped)
- Cream: 1 cup
- Milk: 2 cups
- Butter: 50g
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Breadcrumbs or bread bites (optional for serving)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including prep and cooking time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Boil the macaroni in salted water until slightly tender, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter and add the chopped shallots. Sauté until softened.
- Pour in the cream and milk, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni, ham, and peas until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Optionally, you can top it with breadcrumbs or bread bites.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbling and slightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve while still warm.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: Approx. 450-500 calories per serving (depending on the type of cheese used)
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 22g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and rich texture due to the combination of cheese, cream, and milk.
- Ham adds a savory flavor, while the peas provide a fresh vegetable note.
- Shallots give a slight oniony flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Perfect for a family meal or a special occasion.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit at my dinner party! The combination of flavors was spot on." - John Doe
- "The macaroni was cooked to perfection, not too soft, not too hard. The cheese sauce was smooth and creamy." - Jane Smith
- "Added a few extra shallots for more flavor - loved it! Will definitely make this again." - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If using fresh peas, make sure they are well cooked so they are tender but not crunchy.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. You can add more salt or pepper if needed.
