Macaroni Bake with Ham and Peppers

Don't let the long list of ingredients scare you! This recipe is easy and tasty, great for a family sized meal or if you want leftovers.

1 lb elbow macaroni
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 red bell pepper
1 (14.5 oz) can chopped tomatoes
9 oz smoked ham, diced
3 Tbsp chicken stock
2 tsp dried oregano
1 Cup bread crumbs
3 Tbsp grated parmesean
2 Tbsp butter, melted
2 Cups spaghetti sauce

Preheat oven to 400. Cook macaroni noodles as directed and drain.

Meanwhile, heat oil in a saucepan. Add garlic and red bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the tomatoes, ham, chicken stock and oregano and simmer for about 3 minutes. Add all to the macaroni, stir, and season with salt and pepper.

Pour spaghetti sauce into a large baking dish and spread evenly. Add the macaroni mixture to the top of the sauce. Mix the bread crumbs, parmesean and butter and sprinkly on top.

Place on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Olive Oil Dipping Sauce

Mix together the ingredients below for yummy olive oil dipping sauce. Heat bread and serve!

1 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. dried rosemary
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried parsley
1 tsp. granulated garlic
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 C extra virgin olive oil (or as needed)