Ingredients
- 1 measuring cup of elbow macaroni
- A quarter cup of butter
- A quarter cup of all-purpose flour
- Two tablespoons of brown sugar
- Two tablespoons of brown mustard
- A quarter teaspoon of salt
- A pinch of ground black pepper to your liking
- Two measuring cups of milk
- Two measuring cups of cubed fully cooked ham
- Two measuring cups of peeled and sliced Granny Smith apples
- One and a half measuring cups of soft bread crumbs
- Two tablespoons of melted butter
Step 1
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for a comforting cooking session. In a bustling kitchen, let a generously salted pot of water come to a boil, ready to embrace the elbow macaroni. As the pasta dances in the water, give it a gentle stir now and then until it reaches that perfect al dente texture in about 8 minutes. Once achieved, bid the water adieu and drain the pasta with care.
Step 2
In a spacious saucepan, let 1/4 cup of butter melt gracefully over medium heat. Embrace a dance of flavors by whisking in flour, a hint of brown sugar, a touch of mustard, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of black pepper, guiding them into a harmonious blend with the butter. As this flavorful symphony comes to life, pour in the milk and let it gently simmer. Lower the heat to a gentle hum and continue whisking until the sauce envelops you in its thick, bubbly embrace, a process that takes about 5 minutes. Lovingly fold in the macaroni, ham, and the crisp apple slices, coating them in the velvety sauce. Once each ingredient is intertwined with care, transfer this delightful concoction into a cozy 2-quart casserole dish.
Step 3
Now, let's add a crunchy crown to this comforting creation. Mix together soft breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a bowl, creating a topping fit for a king. Sprinkle this golden mixture over the casserole, adding a layer of texture and flavor that will elevate each bite.
Step 4
Slide the casserole into the preheated oven, where it will transform into a bubbling wonder. Allow it to bake until the casserole is bubbling joyfully and the crumb topping takes on a tempting shade of brown, a process that typically takes around 35 minutes. As the aroma wafts through your kitchen, you know that a delightful meal is just moments away from being savored.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Keep leftovers fresh by storing them in airtight containers or resealable bags.
- 2. For easy reheating, transfer individual servings to microwave-safe dishes or heat in the oven.
- 3. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
