Cheesy Ham-Penne Casserole

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 45 Minutes

Ready In: 65 Minutes

Servings: 8

Rotini pasta may be used in place of penne, prep time does not include cooking the pasta - if desired sprinkle 1-2 cups grated cheddar cheese on the last 3 minutes of baking time - this is *very* good!

Ingredients:

16 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained (measure 16 ounces uncooked, i use half of a 900-gram package)

3 cups cubed cooked ham (or use as much as desired)

5 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon mustard powder

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon seasoning salt (or 1/2 teaspoon white salt)

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional or to taste)

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or to taste)

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups half-and-half cream (or use half milk and cream)

2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided

4 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese (a little more won't hurt)

Directions:

1. Set oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
3. Place the cooked penne and the ham into a large bowl; set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat.
5. Add in mustard powder, black pepper, seasoned salt and cayenne pepper and onion, stir and cook for about 4 minutes.
6. Add in garlic; cook stirring for 2 minutes.
7. Add in flour and mix continously for 2 minutes.
8. Slowly add in the cream and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese; cook stirring over medium-low heat until bubbly.
9. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until completely melted.
10. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and ham; toss until well combined.
11. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
12. Sprinkle the top with about 1/3 cup or more Parmesan cheese.
13. Cover and bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

By RecipeOfHealth.com