Ham Macaroni and Cheese is a kicked-up classic. Perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta is smothered in a creamy and flavorful cheese sauce and studded with chunks of savory HORMEL® CURE 81® Classic Boneless Ham. It’s sure to be a favorite at any gathering.
Ingredients
| 1 | (1-pound) box cavatappi |
| ¼ | cup butter |
| 2 | tablespoons grated onion |
| ¼ | cup all-purpose flour |
| 2 | cups whole milk |
| 2 | cups half-and-half |
| 8 | ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 8 | ounces Provolone cheese, shredded |
| 1¼ | teaspoons kosher salt |
| 1 | teaspoon freshly ground pepper |
| ½ | teaspoon ground mustard |
| ¼ | teaspoon ground nutmeg |
| 2 | cups HORMEL® CURE 81® Classic Boneless Ham, coarsely chopped |
| Additional Cheddar, if desired |
Directions
Heat oven to 350°F.
Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook 2 minutes. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk and half-and-half, whisking constantly.
Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1 minute. Gradually stir in cheeses until smooth. Add salt and next 3 ingredients. Stir cheese mixture and ham into pasta.
Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Top with additional cheese, if desired.
Bake 35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.