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:
- 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.
- Toss in the queso de bola, savory ham or meat, and a packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix for irresistible flavor. Season to taste.
- Add your cooked macaroni and stir until everything is perfectly coated. Transfer this cheesy goodness to a large (9 x 13-inch) baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix crunchy breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, and parmesan cheese, then sprinkle it all over the top.
- 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!
