Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
6 people
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Calories
441 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake
Description
Cheesy Ham and Pea Pasta Bake brings together cooked penne pasta mixed into a creamy white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, thickened and flavored with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. The incorporation of diced cooked ham and peas introduces heartiness and subtle sweetness, complementing the rich sauce. Once mixed, the dish is transferred to an ovenproof dish, topped with the remaining cheese, and baked until the surface is golden and bubbly, adding a pleasing crust that contrasts the creamy interior.
The flavor is moderately cheesy with hints from the Parmesan, while the peas add a fresh pop. The texture features a comfortingly smooth sauce coating the al dente pasta, with some chewiness from the ham. Baking enhances this combination by creating a browned top layer that provides variation in mouthfeel. This dish works well as a main course suitable for family dinners.
For best results, allow the bake to rest briefly after coming out of the oven so it firms up slightly for serving. The recipe's note encourages baking for maximum enjoyment of the melted, bubbling cheese layer, which elevates the dish beyond a simple pasta mix.
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon plain flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese grated, white
- 1 tablespoon Parmesan Cheese grated
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ham cooked
- 1 cup peas cooked
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions.
- White the pasta is cooking, make the white sauce.
- Melt the butter in a large pan, add the flour and whish well.
- Pour in the milk, and whisk well on a low to medium heat until the sauce thickens.
- Add half of the grated cheese, parmesan and ground pepper.
- When the pasta is ready, drain the water and add the pasta to the sauce.
- Add the cooked peas and ham, and mix well.
- Transfer everything to an oven-proof dish.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius (390 Fahrenheit) for about 20 minutes or until golden.
Notes
- Baking the pasta adds a golden, bubbling cheese layer that enhances the dish's flavor and texture.
- The dish can be enjoyed without baking if desired, but the baked version offers a richer experience.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 441 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 441kcal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 70mg | 23% |
| Sodium | 527mg | 22% |
| Potassium | 372mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 595IU | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 4mg | 4% |
| Calcium | 362mg | 36% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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