Homemade Ham and Cheese Pasta Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dinner that comes together in just 50 minutes. This recipe combines bow tie pasta with a rich cheese sauce, tender pieces of ham, and sweet green peas for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
It’s easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
To make this casserole, you’ll need bow tie pasta, butter, garlic, flour, milk, Colby cheese, Parmesan cheese, ham, peas, and a few basic seasonings.
The process is simple. You cook the pasta, make a creamy cheese sauce, combine everything together, and bake it until golden and bubbly. The result is a dish that’s warm, filling, and full of flavor.
This recipe works well for weeknight dinners when you need something quick but don’t want to sacrifice taste. It’s also great for feeding a crowd or bringing to a potluck.
Kids love it because it’s cheesy and mild, and adults appreciate how hearty it is. You can serve it on its own or pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread.
A large pot and a large saucepan are helpful for making this recipe. The measurements are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow, so even if you’re new to cooking, you can make this casserole with confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Cheese Pasta Casserole
Quick and Easy
This casserole takes only 50 minutes from start to finish. You don’t need any special skills or fancy techniques to make it.
Family-Friendly
The mild flavors and creamy texture make this dish a hit with kids and adults. You won’t need to make separate meals for picky eaters.
Uses Simple Ingredients
This recipe calls for basic pantry and fridge staples. You probably have most of what you need already.
Perfect for Leftovers
This casserole tastes great the next day. You can make it ahead and reheat portions throughout the week.
Customizable
You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. Different cheeses, vegetables, or proteins work well in this recipe.
Ingredient Substitutions
Pasta Shape
Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of bow tie pasta. Any short pasta shape works well in this casserole.
Cheese
Swap Colby cheese for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend. Use what you have or prefer.
Ham
Replace ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon. You can also leave out the meat for a vegetarian version.
Milk
Use half-and-half for a richer sauce or a milk alternative like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Frozen Peas
Substitute frozen corn, broccoli florets, or mixed vegetables. Fresh or frozen both work fine.
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Homemade Ham and Cheese Pasta Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounce) bow tie pasta
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cup milk
- 2½ cups shredded Colby cheese
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- ¼¼ teaspoon prepared mustard
- 4 ounces cooked ham julienned
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the bow tie pasta to the boiling water and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk the flour, salt, and black pepper into the butter mixture.
- Cook the flour mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until fully combined.
- Bring the milk mixture to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the shredded Colby cheese and mustard.
- Cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts completely.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Add the cooked pasta, julienned ham, and frozen peas to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook the pasta just until tender since it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the final dish. Whisk Constantly – When making the cheese sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This creates a smooth, creamy texture. Add Milk Slowly – Pour the milk into the flour mixture a little at a time while whisking. This helps the sauce thicken evenly without clumps. Let It Rest – Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set up and makes serving easier. Use Room Temperature Cheese – Shredded cheese melts more evenly when it’s not cold from the fridge. Let it sit out for 15 minutes before using.Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze – Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat in Oven – Cover the casserole with foil and reheat at 350 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. Reheat in Microwave – Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.Nutrition
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