Creamy Cheesy Ham Pasta Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner
Looking for a cozy, family-friendly meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? This Cheesy Ham Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food recipe for busy weeknights or using up leftover ham. With tender rotini pasta, smoky ham, and a rich homemade cheese sauce, every bite is warm, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
2 cups diced cooked ham
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Extra cheese for topping
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until smooth and bubbly.
Add the Milk
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Make It Cheesy
Stir in the garlic powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Add the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and diced ham to the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Bake Until Golden
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and lightly browned on top.
Serve & Enjoy
Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy warm.
Tips for the Best Pasta Bake
Add peas or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
Use smoked ham for deeper flavor.
Swap rotini with penne or fusilli if preferred.
For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking.
Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting, this Ham Pasta Bake is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
