Creamy Ham and Cheddar Pasta Shells Bake Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper or a small amount of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the liquid mixture. These subtle additions can elevate the dish without complicating the preparation.

If you prefer a slightly thinner sauce, you can increase the amount of chicken broth by a quarter cup, though be mindful of the total liquid volume in the dish to prevent overflow during the cooking process.

To achieve a more pronounced crust, you can place the dish under the broiler for the final two minutes of baking. However, keep a very close eye on it, as cheese can transition from perfectly browned to burnt in a matter of seconds.

Using a spatula to gently stir the pasta halfway through the baking process is not necessary with this method, but if you notice uneven browning, rotating the dish 180 degrees in the oven can help ensure a more uniform result.

Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Stir in two cups of fresh baby spinach or frozen peas during the assembly phase to add color and texture to the dish without requiring extra cooking time.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the milk and broth mixture to provide a gentle heat that complements the sharp cheddar.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to restore the sauce's consistency.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure the dish has cooled completely to room temperature before covering it to prevent condensation from affecting the texture. When reheating, it is best to add a small splash of milk or broth to help reconstitute the sauce, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid even after it has been removed from the oven and refrigerated.

This dish can be assembled up to four hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake. If baking from cold, add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the total cook time to ensure the center reaches the proper temperature. It is generally not recommended to assemble this dish more than a few hours ahead of time, as the uncooked pasta may absorb too much of the liquid and lose its ideal texture before it ever reaches the oven.

Serving ideas

Serve this pasta bake directly from the baking dish for a rustic presentation. A large serving spoon is ideal for scooping out portions, ensuring each serving includes a good amount of the creamy sauce and the golden cheese crust.

This dish pairs exceptionally well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables, which provide a fresh contrast to the rich, savory nature of the pasta and cheese. It is a hearty main course that stands well on its own.

Consider serving with a side of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce on the plate. If you have guests, placing the dish in the center of the table allows everyone to serve themselves, making it a great option for casual gatherings.

Ensure the dish is placed on a heat-resistant trivet to protect the dining surface. The combination of textures—the tender pasta, the savory ham, and the melted cheese—makes this a crowd-pleasing meal that is best enjoyed while warm.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Ham and Cheddar Pasta Shells Bake

Prep 10 minCook 35 minRest 5 minTotal 50 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked ham cubes
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large 9x13-inch ceramic baking dish, combine the uncooked medium pasta shells with the cubed cooked ham. Spread the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to ensure even cooking during the baking process.
2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard until fully combined. Pour this mixture over the pasta and ham in the baking dish. Finally, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta, covering it completely.
3. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese topping is golden and bubbling. Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken slightly.

Contains: gluten, milk, mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

520

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

58 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.