Description
Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta
Ingredients:
300 g pasta (penne or macaroni)
2 cups (200 g) cooked ham, diced
2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups (500 ml) milk
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
2 tbsp parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens. Add garlic powder, black pepper, Dijon mustard, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced ham, and the cheese sauce. Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish.
4. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella over the pasta. Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
5. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes:
For added flavor, mix grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated.
#HamAndCheesePasta #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. While the pasta cooks, begin your cheese sauce. The key is to whisk the flour into the melted butter for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste. When adding the milk, do so in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly to ensure a perfectly smooth, lump-free béchamel. Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat before stirring in the first half of the cheddar cheese; residual heat will melt it beautifully. When combining everything, ensure the pasta and ham are evenly coated before transferring to your dish. For the topping, evenly distribute the remaining cheeses and breadcrumbs for consistent browning.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty pasta bake pairs wonderfully with lighter, crisp sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a simple green salad tossed in a vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted broccoli. For a classic comfort food spread, add garlic bread or soft dinner rolls. A dollop of marinara sauce on the side can add a nice tangy contrast for those who enjoy it.
How-to Summary
To make Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta: Cook pasta al dente. Create a cheese sauce by making a roux (butter + flour), whisking in milk, and melting in half the cheddar and seasonings. Mix sauce with pasta and diced ham in a baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses and breadcrumbs. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta with good sauce-holding ability works well, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or shells.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I freeze the baked pasta? Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in a 350°F oven until heated through.
What can I use instead of ham? Cooked chicken, turkey, crispy bacon, or even steamed broccoli florets make excellent substitutes.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Simply whisk in a splash of additional milk or even some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency before combining with the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook only until al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Mushy pasta ruins the texture.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: Always remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating.
- Skipping the Breadcrumb Topping: The breadcrumbs are essential for adding a contrasting crunchy texture to the creamy dish.
- Not Letting it Rest: Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This lets the sauce set slightly for cleaner serving.
Conclusion
This Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta is the ultimate reliable recipe for a satisfying family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish every single time. Its versatility with ingredients and make-ahead convenience makes it a staple recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy this delicious taste of home-cooked comfort.