Name: Macaroni and Cheese with Ham
Yield: Makes 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of garlic; 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large shallots, minced; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups whipping cream; 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme; 1/8 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel; 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 pound ditalini or conchiglie pasta; 8 ounces Westphalian or Black Forest ham, cut into 1/4-inch pieces (about 2 cups); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Kim Massman of Santa Monica, California, writes: "Help me, please. Since dining at The Federalist in the XV Beacon Hotel in Boston, I haven't been able to get the macaroni and cheese out of my mind. It was made with pasta, ham, and a creamy cheese sauce."

The ham lends a salty flavor to this dish. Wait until the sauce is combined with the pasta and ham before seasoning with salt.

Recipe notes

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