Baked Penne With Ham, Peas, and Jack Cheese

ratherbeswimmin''s Note:

A simple, no-nonsense casserole.

• Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
• Prep Time: 45 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large ripe tomato, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• salt
• black pepper
• 2 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 lb cooked ham, diced

Directions:

1. In a big pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Preheat oven to 350°; grease a 3-quart casserole dish; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat; add in onion and tomato; stir for 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the top and continue to stir for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking rapidly until the sauce is smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper; add 1 cup cheese, and stir until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cheese sauce, peas, and ham to the pasta; toss until well blended.
8. Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole; sprinkle remaining cheese over the top; bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Reviews

[PortlandChick]

This was so creamy and delicious! I added 2 T stone ground mustard, yum!

[Red Chef Mama]

This was very good. It is cold here in Kansas and this was nice comfort food for us! I added a little garlic and mustard powder to the sauce for extra flavor. We will definatley be having this again! Thanks! :)