Call Night Mac'roni & Cheese

When I am away on call, I always feel better if I have left something homemade in the fridge for the kids' dinner.  Here is our go-to meal for call nights and other crazy nights.  It is simple to make, reheats well and the kids love it.  The veggies and protein can be varied or omitted entirely depending on household tastes or what is on hand:


E&G-Bears' Favorite Mac'roni & Cheese
1 lb Whole Wheat Pasta (any shape)
1-2 cups peas, broccoli, peppers or mixed veggies frozen or fresh
2-3 Tbsp butter
1 small onion chopped (optional)
3 Tbsp flour
3 Cups milk
2 Cups shredded cheese (we use one cup each sharp cheddar and mozzerella)
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Pepper
8-12 oz chopped ham or chicken
1/4 cup bread crumbs


1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees  
2. Bring pot of water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.  In last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, and  add veggies to pot.  Drain well.  Set aside.
3.  In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat, sprinkle flour and whisk until combined to look like oatmeal.  Slowly whisk in milk, one cup at a time.  Heat over medium heat until thickened and starting to boil, stirring constantly.  Whisk in cinnamon, salt and pepper.  Remove from heat.  Stir in cheese.
4.  Combine pasta, veggies, ham and cheese sauce in a 9x13 pan coated with cooking spray.  Stir to coat.  Sprinkle with bread crumbs.
5.  You can cover with plastic wrap and store in refrigerator overnight or bake immediately for 30 minutes (until warmed through and bubbly).


Enjoy!


Happily Ever,
Queen B