May 8, 2009

Ham and Cheese Penne


3 c. penne pasta
3 T. butter
3 T. flour
1 c. milk
1/2 t. paprika

1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. ground black pepper
1 c. heavy cream
1 pound cooked ham, cubed
2 c. mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 c. garlic bread crumbs (optional)

Cook penne according to package directions. Melt butter. Stir flour into butter while cooking until a smooth paste forms. Slowly stir in milk. cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Add paprika, salt, pepper, and cream, and continue cooking and stirring until thickened. Stir in ham, mozzarella cheese, and penne. Turn into greased baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs (if using). Broil for 5 minutes or until bread crumbs start to turn golden brown.

*I did not use the bread crumbs and I baked mine at 350 just until the cheeses were all melted. My boys loved it... and they are extremely hard to please!