Are you craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Ham Tetrazzini recipe, inspired by the ever-wonderful Pioneer Woman, is the perfect answer. It's a classic casserole dish brimming with tender ham, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a delicious dish that epitomizes homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to experience the magic of this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
This Ham Tetrazzini recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick dinner idea.
- 1 pound pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or rotini work well)
- 1 cup chopped ham (leftover ham is perfect!)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or substitute with more cheddar)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Instructions:
Let’s get cooking! These step-by-step instructions make this a simple recipe even for beginner cooks.
- Cook the pasta: Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the onion: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the cheese sauce: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Season the sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, ham, and cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the Gruyère cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Ham Tetrazzini:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese makes a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or peas.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham Tetrazzini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Ham Tetrazzini: Substitute the ham with roasted vegetables like butternut squash or zucchini.
- Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini: Replace the ham with cooked chicken for a different twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Ham Tetrazzini recipe is a wonderful example of delicious and easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, savory ham, and perfectly cooked pasta create a truly satisfying healthy meal. It's a recipe that effortlessly blends comfort food with ease of preparation, making it a go-to choice for any home cook. Enjoy!