Ham and Cheese Bow Ties
Indulge in the creamy comfort of Ham and Cheese Bow Ties, a quick and family-friendly pasta recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender bow tie pasta coated in a luscious homemade cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, this dish is elevated with savory bites of diced ham and bursts of sweetness from vibrant peas. The secret to its velvety texture lies in the simple roux, which creates a rich foundation for the sauce. With a hint of optional nutmeg for depth, this 30-minute meal is as satisfying as it is effortless. Serve it up hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley, for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that delivers classic flavors with an elegant twist.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1.5 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.125 teaspoons ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Add the diced ham, frozen peas, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring the bow ties are evenly coated.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3243 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 131.5 g | 169% | |
| Saturated Fat | 75.6 g | 378% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 519 mg | 173% | |
| Sodium | 7418 mg | 323% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 323.0 g | 117% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.7 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 47.1 g | ||
| Protein | 201.3 g | 403% | |
| Vitamin D | 5.4 mcg | 27% | |
| Calcium | 2395 mg | 184% | |
| Iron | 10.5 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 2467 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
