Ham Casserole Recipe

[Micheal]

4 ounces medium noodles
1 package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli spears
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon prepared brown mustard
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups milk
1 cup grated mild Cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked diced ham
1/3 cup slivered toasted almonds*
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 350°.
Cook noodles following package directions; drain. Cook broccoli just until tender.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter; blend in flour, salt, prepared mustard, and pepper. Stir until smooth and bubbly. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened; remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted. Dice broccoli stalks; leave flowerets intact. In an 8-inch square baking dish, arrange noodles, broccoli stems, and ham; pour cheese sauce over all. Arrange the flowerets over the top, pressing down a bit. Sprinkle with almonds. Bake ham casserole for about 15 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Ham casserole serves 4.
*To toast nuts, spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast in a 350° oven, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes. Or, toast in an ungreased skillet over medium heat, stirring, until golden brown and aromatic.