Cheesy Ham Macaroni - Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia

Ingredients

• 1 package (8 ounces) elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Dash pepper
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
• 1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
• 1 jar (2 ounces) diced pimientos, drained
• 1/2 cup crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 11 crackers)
• Minced fresh parsley, optional