1 1/2 c. elbow macaroni
3 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. milk
8 oz. American cheese
bell pepper
ham, chopped (optional)

Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until tender; drain. In saucepan, melt butter; blend in flour, salt and dash of pepper. Add milk. Cook and stir until thick and bubbly. Add cheese. Stir until melted. Mix cheese sauce with macaroni. Turn into 1 1/2 -quart casserole. Garnish top with rings of bell pepper.

Bake in 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes.