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Cheesy Ham and Corn Pasta Bake

Easy Cheesy Ham and Corn Pasta Bake for Cozy Weeknight Comfort

A delightful Cheesy Ham and Corn Pasta Bake combines pasta, ham, corn, and melted cheese for a comforting weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Bake
  • 8 oz Pasta (penne or fusilli) choose shapes that hold sauce well
  • 2 cups Cooked ham, diced adds savory, salty bites
  • 1 cup Sweet corn kernels fresh or frozen works great
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded the classic melty cheese
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded adds stretchiness
  • 3 tablespoons Butter for rich sauce base
  • 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour for thickening the sauce
  • 2 cups Milk (whole or 2%) foundation of the sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Salt for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper for balancing flavors
For Optional Flavor Boosters
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder or minced garlic adds subtle depth
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder or finely diced onion enhances savory notes
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika brings warmth and smoky flair
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley or chives for fresh finish

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • medium saucepan
  • Large Pot

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, cook pasta 8–10 minutes until al dente, then drain well.
  3. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat; whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour until bubbling, about 2 minutes.
  4. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps; simmer until the sauce thickens, about 4 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat, add 1 cup of cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella, stirring until silky smooth.
  6. In the prepared dish, toss drained pasta, diced ham, corn, and cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Sprinkle extra cheese on top, then bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use whole milk for the creamiest sauce, and balance the salty ham with sweet corn and melty cheese.

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