There’s something incredibly comforting about a cheesy pasta bake, especially when it’s loaded with savory ham and vibrant broccoli. One evening, craving a hearty meal that didn’t involve endless chopping or complicated steps, I tossed together this Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake—and it quickly became a household favorite. The melty cheese binds everything into warm, gooey perfection, while the broccoli adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition. Whether you’re looking to impress family dinner guests or just want to upgrade your weeknight meal game, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Plus, it’s a clever way to use up leftover ham without any fuss!
Why choose Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
Comfort food, made easy: this bake is a simple, hands-off meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas without hours of prep. Savory and fresh: tender ham pairs perfectly with vibrant broccoli and a rich cheese sauce for balanced indulgence. Family favorite: kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing, it’s great for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Time-saving magic: it’s a guilt-free way to transform leftovers into something spectacular. Versatile and adaptable: swap cheeses, add spices, or toss in extra veggies to make it your own every time.
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake
- Pasta (penne or fusilli) – choose a sturdy shape that holds sauce well for that perfect cheesy bite.
- Cooked ham, diced – a savory, protein-packed star that makes this pasta bake hearty and satisfying.
- Broccoli florets – add vibrant color and a tender crunch to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded – melts beautifully to create the signature gooey, cheesy texture.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded – for that extra creamy, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
- Milk (whole or 2%) – forms the base of the smooth, luscious cheese sauce.
- Butter – essential for creating a rich roux that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- All-purpose flour – blends with butter to make the creamy béchamel that binds the dish.
- Garlic, minced – infuses subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the bake.
- Salt and pepper – simple seasonings that enhance every flavor in this comforting dish.
Optional Extras
- Grated Parmesan cheese – sprinkle on top for a golden, savory crust.
- Red pepper flakes – add a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- Breadcrumbs – for a delightful crispy topping that contrasts the creamy interior.
This carefully chosen list ensures your Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting every time!
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring the pasta won’t stick.
- Boil salted water in a large pot set over high heat. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain well.
- Steam broccoli florets in a steamer basket over simmering water for 3–4 minutes until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain fully.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Whisk in flour and cook the mixture for 2 minutes until it’s bubbly and light golden. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted, creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring briskly for an even melt.
For Assembling and Baking:
- Combine drained pasta, diced ham, and broccoli in the prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce over, tossing gently to coat evenly and distribute ingredients throughout.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and the top turns golden brown. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Optional: Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that complement this creamy, comforting dish perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta bake, making every bite richer.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette balances the warmth of the cheesy dish, adding a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots and bell peppers provide a sweet and earthy complement that enhances the overall meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a hint of elegance alongside the pasta bake, with its slightly nutty flavor enriching the meal.
- Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy side brings a refreshing zing, contrasting the richness of the pasta bake while adding a playful texture.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of fizzy lemonade with a tart twist refreshes your palate, making it the perfect drink to enjoy with dinner.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, the warm, spiced sweetness of apple crisp will round out your meal and add a comforting finish.
- Seasoned Potato Wedges: Baked or fried, these crispy wedges are a satisfying side that echoes the bake’s hearty nature, making it an instant favorite.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Enhance the cheese factor by serving flaky, cheesy biscuits, creating a delightful harmony of flavors on your table.
- Herbed Quinoa: For a healthy touch, herbed quinoa with a hint of lemon brightens the plate and adds a unique texture separator between bites.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the pasta and steam the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the creamy cheese sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just be sure to give it a good stir before using to maintain its smooth texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the pasta, ham, broccoli, and cheese sauce in your prepared dish, and pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. With these prep tips, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic weeknights!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness after baking in the sauce. This keeps your Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake delightfully firm.
- Drain Broccoli Well: After steaming, thoroughly drain broccoli to prevent soggy pasta bake. Pat dry with paper towels for a crisp, bright bite.
- Smooth Cheese Sauce: Whisk constantly when adding milk to prevent lumps in the béchamel, giving you that creamy, luscious cheese sauce every time.
- Even Ingredient Distribution: Toss pasta, ham, and broccoli gently with the cheese sauce to ensure every forkful is packed with flavor and gooey goodness.
- Golden Topping: For a gorgeous crust, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan on top before baking. It adds irresistible crunch to your comfort dish.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the bake rest 5 minutes after coming out of the oven. This allows the cheese to set slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Feel free to get creative with this recipe—your kitchen is the canvas!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties to make it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and a burst of color.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda or fontina for a unique flavor profile and extra creaminess.
- Protein Swap: Use cooked chicken or turkey in place of ham for a tasty alternative or if you have leftovers to use up.
- Creamy Spin: Mix in a splash of heavy cream with the milk for an even richer cheese sauce that hugs every bite.
- Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or sriracha to the cheese sauce if you’re looking to kick up the heat—your taste buds will thank you!
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchier texture, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and garlic powder before sprinkling on top before baking.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish to new culinary heights.
Incorporating these variations can transform your Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake into a delightful new experience every time you make it!
Storage Tips for Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.
- Freezer: Wrap the prepared pasta bake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
- Refreshing Leftovers: For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a bit more cheddar or mozzarella on top while reheating for that beloved gooey texture in your Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake.
Best Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake That Warms Your Soul Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my broccoli is fresh enough for the pasta bake?
Choose broccoli with firm, tight florets that are bright green without any yellowing or dark spots. Fresh broccoli should snap easily when bent and smell clean and earthy.
Can I store leftovers of the Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake in the fridge?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container once the bake has fully cooled. It will stay tasty and safe to eat for up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Is it possible to freeze this pasta bake for later? If so, how?
Very! Wrap the cooled pasta bake tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It freezes well for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What can I do if my cheese sauce turns out lumpy?
Lumpy sauce usually means the flour didn’t combine smoothly or the milk was added too quickly. Next time, whisk constantly when adding the milk in slow increments. If lumps form, you can pass the sauce through a fine sieve or whisk vigorously off heat until smooth.
Is this recipe safe for pets or those with dairy allergies?
I recommend skipping sharing this with pets, as dairy and ham can upset their stomachs. For dairy allergies, try substituting dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, though the texture may slightly vary. Always check ingredient labels carefully.
Best Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake That Warms Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook penne pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain well.
- Steam broccoli florets in a steamer basket over simmering water for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted, creating a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine drained pasta, diced ham, and broccoli in the prepared dish. Pour cheese sauce over, tossing gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
