This comforting Hurry Up Ham Supper is the ultimate weeknight savior, combining tender elbow macaroni and savory cubed ham in a velvety, homemade cheese sauce. The sharp cheddar melts perfectly into a roux-based milk reduction, creating a rich, satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug. A hint of cayenne pepper adds just enough warmth to cut through the creaminess, while sauted green peppers provide a fresh, slightly sweet crunch. Its a classic “hodgepodge” style casserole that comes together in under 40 minutes. Serve it hot from the oven, perhaps with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious cheesy goodness. Its rustic, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Hurry Up Ham Supper
Description
This comforting Hurry Up Ham Supper is the ultimate weeknight savior, combining tender elbow macaroni and savory cubed ham in a velvety, homemade cheese sauce. The sharp cheddar melts perfectly into a roux-based milk reduction, creating a rich, satisfying texture that feels like a warm hug. A hint of cayenne pepper adds just enough warmth to cut through the creaminess, while sauted green peppers provide a fresh, slightly sweet crunch. Its a classic "hodgepodge" style casserole that comes together in under 40 minutes. Serve it hot from the oven, perhaps with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious cheesy goodness. Its rustic, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
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Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain well.
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In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add the chopped green peppers to the melted butter and saut for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
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Sprinkle the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper over the peppers and butter, stirring constantly to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
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Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook and stir constantly until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
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Gently fold in the drained macaroni and cubed ham until everything is evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
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Transfer the mixture into a 1.5-quart baking dish or casserole, spreading it out evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
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Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with tomato slices if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 528.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.1g25%
- Saturated Fat 5.2g26%
- Cholesterol 31.2mg11%
- Sodium 5874.4mg245%
- Total Carbohydrate 72.6g25%
- Dietary Fiber 11.1g45%
- Sugars 12.4g
- Protein 31.0g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.