Still have leftover Christmas or New Year’s ham? Don’t let it go to waste!

Turn it into a flavorful, hearty macaroni casserole by combining it with leftover queso de bola—sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups fresh milk
• 1 cup queso de bola, grated/shredded/roughly torn
• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed*
• 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix (optional)
• 1 box (1lb) elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
• 4 cups Japanese breadcrumbs (Panko)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon herb parsley, or fresh, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

*Substitute with pulled pork or similar leftover meat.

Recipe Preparation:

1. Start by melting butter in a saucepan, then stir in flour to create a rich roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce begins to thicken. 
2. Toss in the queso de bola, savory ham or meat, and a packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix for irresistible flavor. Season to taste. 
3. Add your cooked macaroni and stir until everything is perfectly coated. Transfer this cheesy goodness to a large (9 x 13-inch) baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix crunchy breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and parmesan cheese, then sprinkle it all over the top.
5. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.  Add a dash of hot sauce for a bolder flavor!