For this recipe, we're bringing everyone’s favorite noche buena ingredients into a bowl that absolutely no one can complain about. You can make this queso de bola mac & cheese with hamon together for a beautifully baked casserole that is indulgent and creamy, with a hint of sweetness.
We’ve partnered with Coke to bring you this recipe, which is guaranteed to make your noche buena even more exciting. Imagine a refreshing glass of the beloved cola after a rich bite of some mac and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 cups full milk
- 3 cups water
- 1-pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 1 cup + ½ cup queso de bola, grated
- 1 cup cooked ham, chopped
- 1 tbsp mustard or mustard powder
- salt and pepper, to taste
Preheat an oven to the broiler setting, about 500F.
In a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat, heat the butter until brown and nutty, about 5 mins.
Add the flour and whisk well. Cook for 3 mins or until the flour loses its raw flavor and the brown butter has slightly thickened.
Add the milk and water to the pot. Stir constantly to ensure no lumps form.
Add the pasta and cook for about 6-8 mins, or until the noodles are just al dente and almost all of the liquid has been absorbed.
Turn off the heat and add in cheddar cheese, jack cheese, and 1 cup of queso de bola, ham, and mustard or mustard powder.
Stir until all the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mac & cheese to an oven-safe dish or skillet.
Top with the remaining ½ cup of queso de bola. Place in the broiler for 2-4 mins or until the top is bubbling and slightly golden browned.
Serve immediately.
