This one-skillet meal has everything you need for a fantastic dinner, including smokey, delicious ham, fresh broccoli, and pasta all in an amazing two cheese sauce! Best of all, this easy pasta dinner is done and on the table in under 30 minutes!
Large SkilletThis large Anolon 12" Skillet is ideal for making one-pan meals!
Large Stock Pot or Dutch OvenThis Le Creuset Dutch oven is one of my all-time favorite pieces of cookware. Super durable and versatile! Great for soups and stews.
Ingredients
1lb.Gemelli pastaor similar medium sized pasta, cooked & drained
1(8 oz. pkg.)white cheddar cheese, shredded(reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
1(8 oz. pkg.)sharp cheddar cheese, shredded(reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
3/4lb.ham steakcubed
4cupsbroccolicut into small florets
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large stockpot, bring generously salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, to al dente. (One minute less than package directions.)
While water for pasta is coming to a boil and pasta cooks, begin making the cheese sauce. Over medium heat melt the butter. To the melted butter add the flour. Stir together, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture comes to a low simmer. In the microwave heat the milk for about 3 minutes or until very hot. Add the hot milk to the flour/butter mixture, and stir with a whisk. Increase heat to medium high. Continue whisking milk until is begins to thicken, about 5 minutes. Once it starts to simmer and thicken, add the cheeses (remember to reserve 1/2 c. from each package for the topping.) Stir until the cheese melts.
In the microwave, add the broccoli florets to a microwave safe bowl. Add about 1/2 c. water and steam for about 2 minutes on high.
To the cheese sauce add the diced ham, steamed broccoli, and the cooked pasta. Stir together until all ingredients are incorporated. Top with the reserved cheeses. Remove from heat and add a lid to the top cheese melt for a couple minutes. Serve and enjoy right away.
Notes
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. Leftovers will keep for up to 5 days refrigerated.