12 ounces mild cheddar cheese (or a combination of mild and sharp, divided)
12 ounces frozen peas, thawed
8 ounces diced ham
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Topping
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Heat oven to 350 F.
Butter a 2-quart baking dish.
Cook macaroni following package directions; drain in a colander and rinse with hot water.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Stir flour into the butter until smooth and bubbly and continue cooking for 2 minutes. Add the mustard, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in the milk and cream. Continue cooking, stirring, until the sauce is thickened. Add the cheese, cooked peas, and ham, stirring until the cheese has melted.
Add the drained macaroni and the parsley to the sauce and stir until well combined.
Spoon the macaroni mixture into the buttered baking dish.
Combine breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and toss until well blended. Sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
Bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until the topping is browned and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.