by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: September 03, 2008   Last Updated: March 15, 2011

Baked macaroni and cheese casserole is a favorite in our house. It is relatively quick and easy to make, yet it is absolutely decadent. This casserole is a true comfort food. It's great for those days when you aren't feeling well or just need something to make you feel warm inside and out.  Forget the chocolate, bring on the mac 'n cheese!  This recipe will guarantee you that cozy and comforted feeling you're looking for with home-cooked cheesy pasta.

INGREDIENTS
1 12 ounce package of elbow macaroni
1 egg
2 cups of milk
2 tablespoons of butter, melted
2 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup of ham, cubed into 1 inch squares
1/2 cup of onion, minced
salt and pepper can be added to taste

DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. This can be done while you are getting your macaroni and cheese ready to go in for baking.  Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with either oil or a cooking spray.
In a large pot of salted water, boil the macaroni for about 5 minutes or until half-cooked.
Whisk the egg and milk together in a medium sized mixing bowl. Add the melted butter and the shredded cheese to the egg and milk mixture. Stir these items together well.
Place the half cooked macaroni into the prepared baking dish. Add the cubed ham and the minced onion onto the top of the macaroni. Pour the egg and cheese liquid mixture over the macaroni, ham, and onion. Sprinkle this with salt and pepper, and stir it all together well.
Bake the macaroni and cheese uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is brown. Serve and enjoy this simple to make and wonderful to eat macaroni and cheese.  It's great by itself or as a side dish with other items.

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