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Comforting Ham and Velveeta Pasta Bake with Broccoli

Ham and Velveeta Pasta Bake - featured image
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A quick and easy 30-minute pasta bake combining creamy Velveeta cheese, savory ham, and tender broccoli for a comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups (300g) cooked ham, diced
  • 2 cups (200g) fresh or frozen broccoli florets
  • 8 ounces (225g) Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 2 cups (480ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. In the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain both together using a colander and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth roux and smells slightly nutty (don’t let it brown).
  4. Slowly add 2 cups (480ml) of milk, pouring in gradually while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Stir in 8 ounces (225g) of cubed Velveeta cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  6. Gently fold the cooked pasta and broccoli along with 2 cups (300g) diced cooked ham into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the optional 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
  8. Place in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  9. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Notes

If sauce is too thick before combining with pasta, whisk in a splash of milk to loosen. Blanch broccoli to keep it tender-crisp and vibrant. Cover with foil if top browns too fast during baking. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour or cornstarch as thickener. Variations include vegetarian version by skipping ham and adding mushrooms or roasted peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham pasta bake, Velveeta pasta, broccoli casserole, cheesy pasta bake, quick dinner, comfort food, easy pasta bake

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/comforting-ham-and-velveeta-pasta-bake-with-broccoli-easy-30-minute-recipe/