Baked Penne With Ham Peas And Jack Cheese Recipe

A cheesy, comforting casserole bursting with flavor! This easy-to-make baked penne recipe combines tender pasta, savory ham, sweet peas, and creamy Jack cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this simple casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 75 mins
Calories 738.9 kcal
Protein 67g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Baked Penne With Ham Peas And Jack Cheese 15

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Penne With Ham Peas And Jack Cheese

  • Penne Pasta
  • Olive Oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Tomatoes
  • All Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt
  • Black Pepper
  • Monterey Jack Cheese
  • Frozen Peas
  • Cooked Ham

How to Make Baked Penne With Ham Peas And Jack Cheese

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart casserole dish.
  2. Cook 1 pound penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained. Stir for 2 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour over the onion and tomato mixture. Stir for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add 1 cup shredded Jack cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, 1 cup frozen peas, and 1 cup diced cooked ham. Toss until well blended.
  8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded Jack cheese over the top.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

15g

Fat

72g

Carbs

26g

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