Macaroni with cheese and ham

Macaroni with Telemea Cheese and Ham Recipe – A Creamy Delight in Every Bite

In a world full of complicated recipes, sometimes we just want a simple and satisfying dish. Macaroni with telemea cheese and ham is exactly what we're looking for: a comfort food dish, quick to prepare and full of delicious flavors. This recipe revives childhood memories when family meals were filled with laughter and joy.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g macaroni (I recommend classic macaroni that cook easily)
- 200 g telemea cheese (preferably less salty for a balanced taste)
- 200 g sour cream for pasta (a fatty sour cream will make the sauce creamier)
- 100 g country ham (or any type of ham you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon oregano (for an extra flavor)
- 25 g butter (for a rich taste)

Recipe history:
Macaroni have been popularized worldwide, but each culture has its own special way of preparing them. This simple recipe combines the most common ingredients from home kitchens, transforming them into a comforting and hearty dish. Whether you're preparing it for a quick dinner after a long day or for a gathering with friends, macaroni with telemea cheese and ham is always an inspired choice.

Preparation steps:

1. Boil the macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt (don’t overdo it, as the telemea can be salty) and let the water reach a boiling point. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the sauce:
In a saucepan, melt 25 g of butter over low heat. Be careful not to burn it, just let it melt gently. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced ham, allowing it to sauté lightly until it becomes golden and starts releasing its aromas.

3. Add the sour cream and telemea:
Once the ham is ready, pour the sour cream for pasta into the pot and mix well. Meanwhile, grate the telemea on a large grater. Gradually add it to the sauce, stirring continuously over low heat until the telemea melts completely, creating a creamy sauce.

4. Season:
Finally, add the oregano and let the sauce cook for another 2 minutes, so the flavors combine harmoniously. This is the perfect moment to enjoy the delicious aroma spreading throughout the kitchen!

5. Combine:
Once the macaroni are cooked, drain them and add them to the pot with the telemea and ham sauce. Gently mix to ensure every piece of macaroni is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

6. Serve:
Place the macaroni on warm plates and, if desired, you can sprinkle a little more oregano on top for a more appealing look. These macaroni are delicious hot, but you can experiment with various sides or salads to create a more sophisticated lunch.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even creamier sauce, you can add a few tablespoons of milk or grated cheese.
- Substitute oregano with basil for a fresher flavor.
- Experiment with different types of ham or add roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
- Ensure the telemea is of good quality, as it will influence the final taste of the dish.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 600 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fats: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace telemea with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese, mozzarella, or even cheddar cheese for a different taste.

2. What is the best way to store leftover macaroni?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little sour cream to restore the creaminess of the sauce.

3. What can I serve with macaroni with telemea and ham?
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a serving of grilled vegetables. Also, a glass of dry white wine can complement the meal excellently.

Macaroni with telemea and ham are more than just a simple dish. They bring with them stories, memories, and the warmth of a meal spent with loved ones. So gather your family or friends, prepare this simple recipe, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!