FANCY MAC 'N' CHEESE

Fancy Mac 'N' Cheese image

People compare my version of mac'n'cheese to their grandma's macaroni and cheese...not knowing it starts out with a purchase box mix. Ham and broccoli add flavor and color. It brings raves at our church socials.-Janet Twigg, Campbellford, Ontario

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 30m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 packages (7-1/4 ounces each) macaroni and white cheddar or cheddar cheese dinner mix
6 cups water
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon butter, divided
1/2 cup milk
2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup soft bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

Set cheese sauce packet from dinner mix aside. Bring water to a boil. Add macaroni; cook for 4 minutes. Add the broccoli, onion and garlic. Cook 3-6 minutes longer or until macaroni is tender; drain., In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter. Stir in cheese sauce mix and milk. Add the ham, mustard, salt and pepper. Stir in macaroni mixture. , Transfer to a greased broiler-proof 2-1/2-qt. baking dish. Melt remaining butter; toss with bread crumbs and cheese. Sprinkle over top. Broil 4-6 in. from the heat for 4-5 minutes or until top is golden brown.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 312 calories, Fat 19g fat (10g saturated fat), Cholesterol 61mg cholesterol, Sodium 932mg sodium, Carbohydrate 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 14g protein.