When it comes to comforting, family-friendly meals that are both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, nothing beats a warm and creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta Bake fresh from the oven. Packed with gooey cheese, tender pasta, and savory ham, this dish is not only a favorite for weeknight dinners but also an excellent way to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal. Bonus? It’s oh-so-easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!
Here’s everything you need to know to make this hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy delight:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works best)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds a great depth of flavor)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for a little smoky kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional) for that golden, crispy topping
Optional Add-ins:
- Chopped vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for a pop of color and nutrients
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for spice lovers
Instructions:
Step 1 - Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it’s just al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Step 2 - Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and about 1½ cups of cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted into a creamy, smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3 - Combine and Assemble
- Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and diced ham in a large mixing bowl. If you’re adding veggies, fold them in at this point.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly over the top.
Step 4 - Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This Ham and Cheese Pasta Bake is a meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Leftovers can be reheated easily, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Easy to Make: Even beginner cooks will find the steps straightforward.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding the whole family or impressing guests.
- Versatile: Got leftover turkey, bacon, or different cheeses? Swap them in!
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when you're ready.
Time to Get Baking!
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Ham and Cheese Pasta Bake will quickly become a dinner staple in your household. Whether you’re serving it on a casual weeknight or bringing it to a family potluck, it’s bound to leave everyone asking for seconds!
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