Macaroni souffle with ham

Macaroni and Ham Soufflé

Who doesn't love a rich and creamy macaroni soufflé that delights the taste buds? This macaroni and ham soufflé recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive gathering. It's a versatile dish that combines macaroni with simple yet delicious ingredients in a way that will remind you of hearty meals from childhood.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed:

- 300 g macaroni (choose a type you like, such as spirals or tubular)
- 100 g sliced cooked ham (you can use turkey ham for a lighter option)
- 1 tomato (preferably ripe and juicy)
- 1 bunch of fresh basil (its aroma will elevate this dish)
- 100 g cheese (opt for aged cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 3 eggs (choose fresh eggs for a richer soufflé)
- 100 ml sour cream (you can use heavy sour cream for superior creaminess)
- 150 ml milk (whole milk will provide a fuller taste)
- 40 g butter (for added flavor and greasing the dish)
- Salt, ground pepper, and cayenne pepper (for a hint of spice)

Preparing the macaroni and ham soufflé:

1. Start by bringing a pot with 3 liters of water to a boil. Add 3 tablespoons of salt, then, when the water reaches a boiling point, add the macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in the soufflé.

2. Meanwhile, cut the ham into small cubes to distribute them evenly in the macaroni mixture. Wash the tomato and cut it into cubes similar in size to the ham. Rinse the basil, then pick the leaves and chop them finely. This will add a fresh fragrance and a pop of color to the dish.

3. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, mix the macaroni with the ham cubes, tomato, and chopped basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a bit of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier flavor.

4. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This is important as a well-heated oven will enhance the soufflé's texture and help form a golden, appetizing crust.

5. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sour cream, milk, and grated cheese. Add salt, pepper, and a bit of cayenne pepper, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. This mixture will act as a binder, keeping all the ingredients together and providing a creamy texture.

6. Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it's evenly coated to prevent sticking. Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared dish, then add the sour cream and egg mixture on top. Use a spatula to evenly distribute the mixture.

7. The final step is to sprinkle the remaining butter on top of the soufflé. This will help create a golden and crispy crust. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the soufflé is golden and puffed up.

Helpful tips:

- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some chopped black or green olives, or even a few slices of mushrooms in the macaroni mixture.
- A vegetarian version of this soufflé could include vegetables like zucchini or spinach, replacing the ham with tofu or feta cheese.
- You can serve the macaroni soufflé with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon dressing and olive oil for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional values (approximately per serving):

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I substitute the macaroni with other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Is it possible to prepare the soufflé in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni mixture and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, just add the sour cream and egg mixture and bake.

3. What drinks pair best with the macaroni and ham soufflé?
A dry white wine or a pale ale are excellent choices, but you can also opt for iced tea with lemon, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

This macaroni and ham soufflé recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and comfort. Whether you're making it for a holiday meal or as a main dish during the week, it's impossible not to enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!