Spicy Mexican Ham Pasta Bake That Will Wow Your Family!
Whip up this delicious Mexican Ham Pasta Bake in under an hour. A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish perfect for a quick family dinner. Try it tonight!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (such as fusili, rotini, penne or elbow macaroni)
- ¾ cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- ¾ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup chunky salsa
- 1 cup ham (diced)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook pasta until half way (about 6 minutes), drain and set aside.
- Combine both cheeses (Monterey Jack and cheddar) and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in milk, bring to a boil, and cook for 1 minute until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in 1 cup of the cheese mixture until smooth. Add the cooked pasta, diced ham, and chunky salsa. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350℉ (175℃) for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Video
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor profile.
- Don't overcook the pasta initially; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.
- Don't overcook the pasta initially; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving. Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.