This Ham and Cheese Pasta Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Made with tender ham, creamy cheese sauce, and al dente pasta, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It's easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (such as elbow or penne)
- 4 cups cooked ham, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked ham and cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, and mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve the Ham and Cheese Pasta Casserole hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, like broccoli or peas, for added nutrition.
Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.