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Family Favourite

Hearty Ham & Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Squeezing in quality time over dinner is an important part of our family's day. This is a favourite—easy to prepare, healthy and a hit with the whole family.

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Cheese grater
  • 8-cup (2 L) Casserole dish
  • Large saucepan
  • Stirring spoon
  • Whisk
  • Large pot for boiling macaroni
  • Colander
  • Small bowl for mixing topping

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp (15 mL) butter
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60 mL) chopped celery
  • 2 Tbsp (30 mL) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/3 cups (325 mL) milk
  • 1 can (370 mL) 2% evaporated milk
  • 1 cup (250 mL) shredded old cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup (75 mL) shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp (2mL) each, salt and pepper
  • 2 cups (500 mL) macaroni
  • 3 cups (750 mL) small broccoli florets
  • 1 cup (250 mL) diced Black Forest Ham or cooked crumbled bacon (optional)
  • TOPPING
  • 1 Tbsp (30 mL) butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) fresh multigrain bread crumbs
  • 1 Tbsp (15 mL) dried Italian seasoning

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375° F (190° C).
  2. Butter an 8-cup (2 L) casserole dish.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; sauté onion and celery for about 3 minutes or until lightly golden. Sprinkle with flour; cook, stirring for 1 minute.
  4. Whisk in milk and evaporated milk; cook, stirring for about 5 minutes or until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and parmesan cheeses, salt and pepper.
  6. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling water, cook macaroni for 5 minutes or until almost tender. Add broccoli; cook for 1 minute.
  7. Drain and add to sauce along with ham, if using. Spread into prepared casserole dish.
  8. To prepare topping, combine butter, bread crumbs and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Sprinkle over macaroni.
  9. Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.