Ham & Broccoli Noodle Casserole

Meat-based casseroles are deeply Southern—they are beautiful, unusual, complex, and tasty.

½ cup mayonnaise

2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen

1 plus ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup chopped cooked ham

1½ cups macaroni or corkscrew noodles, cooked and drained

2 tablespoons finely chopped green bell pepper

¼ cup milk

½ cup seasoned croutons

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a medium bowl mix together the mayonnaise, broccoli, 1 cup of the cheese, the ham, macaroni, bell pepper, and milk. Spoon the mixture into a 9 × 13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese and the croutons. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly.

YIELD: 10 TO 12 SERVINGS