A quick and easy ham and potato casserole made in a microwave oven.

Ham-and-Potato Casserole

2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup sliced carrot
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup water
2 cups diced ham
2 tablespoons chopped green bell peppers
2 tablespoons chopped onion
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup crushed saltine crackers

1. Combine potatoes, carrots, celery and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 7 to 8 minutes, or until tender-crisp, stirring once. Drain.
2. In a medium bowl combine ham, green bell pepper, onion and butter in a bowl. Microwave on HIGH for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring once.
3. Combine the potato mixture and the ham mixture; set aside.
4. In another separate bowl microwave butter on HIGH for 1 minute, or until melted. Stir in flour and milk, stirring until smooth. Microwave on HIGH for 3 to 5 minutes, or until thick and bubbly, stirring twice. Add cheddar cheese, salt and pepper; stir until the cheese melts. Pour the cheese sauce over the ham mixture and sprinkle with crushed crackers. Microwave on HIGH for 8 to 9 minutes, turning once. Serve immediately.

Makes 6 servings.