There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about baked macaroni cheese, but adding Jamón Serrano transforms this classic into something a little more special. The rich, nutty flavour of aged Spanish ham melts through the creamy cheese sauce, creating layers of savoury depth in every bite.
This recipe is ideal for weekend entertaining, cosy winter dinners or whenever you need proper comfort food. With a crisp golden topping and silky cheese sauce, it’s simple enough for a family meal yet impressive enough to serve guests.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Ready in under an hour, this rich and creamy baked macaroni is elevated with premium Jamón Serrano for a gourmet twist on a family favourite. It’s perfect for making ahead, feeding a crowd or serving as comforting winter fare.
Ingredients you’ll need
Mature cheddar provides a rich, full-bodied flavour and creates a beautifully creamy sauce.
Parmesan adds savoury depth and helps form a golden, crisp topping.
Jamón Serrano delivers delicate, salty richness and an unmistakable Spanish character.
Good quality macaroni holds the sauce well while maintaining its texture after baking.
Fresh herbs add colour and freshness, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Chef’s tips
Cook the pasta until just under al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Grate your own cheese for the smoothest sauce and best flavour. Let the macaroni rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken slightly. Finish with extra shaved Parmesan and a scattering of fresh parsley.
Variations
Roasted cauliflower adds sweetness and extra vegetables, while baby spinach can be stirred through just before baking for added greens. Replace the Jamón Serrano with smoked ham if preferred, or add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami. A topping of toasted breadcrumbs creates an even crispier finish.
PrintCheesy baked macaroni with Jamon Serrano
- Total Time0 hours
- YieldServes 6
Although this is an indulgent comfort dish, it also provides quality protein and calcium from the cheese, while Jamón Serrano contributes iron and vitamin B12. Pairing the meal with a generous green salad helps balance richness with fibre and antioxidants.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 170 C.
- Lightly butter a baking dish or brush lightly with olive oil.
- Boil the macaroni in salted water as per instructions. Drain most of the water off but do save some because it helps to add a thickener to the macaroni. Set aside.
- Meanwhile make the bechamel – in a large saucepan, combine the milk and flour and whisk to combine well. Then add salt and pepper and continue to cook over a medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce has thickened and gently bubbling.
- Now stir in spring onions and 2 of the 3 cups of shredded cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted then remove from heat.
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until well blended.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter and stir gently until all the breadcrumbs have absorbed the butter – this helps the breadcrumbs to be crisper.
- Spoon the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese and then sprinkle the prepared breadcrumbs.
- Top with torn Jamon Serrano and bake for 30-40 minutes or the topping is browned and crunchy and the side of the dish is bubbling around the edges. Yum!
Notes
Serve alongside:
- Rocket salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Tomato salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 mins
- Category: Jamon Serrano
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Modern Australian
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