Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) wide egg noodles
  • 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
  • ½ cup (60g) diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 cups (230g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 pound (450g) cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup (90g) crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz or Town House)
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) melted unsalted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While noodles cook, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups (175g) of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. In the baking dish, combine the cooked noodles, cheese sauce, and diced ham. Mix well to combine.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup (55g) of cheddar cheese evenly over the noodle mixture. Combine crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the cheese.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.