Cheesy Macaroni with Confetti Peppers and Ham

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Using 15 ml (1 tbsp) of butter, coat the inside of a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 in) rectangular baking dish, then dust with the bread crumbs.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the remaining butter on medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the onions and cook 2 minutes, stirring. Add the peppers, ham and parsley and cook for 7 minutes, until the peppers have begun to soften. Add the milk and increase the heat to high. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes then remove from the heat and stir in the ketchup. Season to taste, add 3/4 of the taco and nacho cheese and stir to combine.
5. Cook the pasta in a generous amount of salted water until al dente. Drain and combine with the sauce. Pour into the prepared baking dish, top with the remaining cheese and cook for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tip

This is an easy and cost-effective way to feed a horde of hungry kids. In a pinch, use 4 cups of frozen vegetables instead of the peppers, or feel free to substitute your kids' favourite veggies.