Creamy Ham & Cheese Spaghetti
A comforting pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti enveloped in a rich, cheesy white sauce, complemented by savory chunks of ham. Ideal for using leftover ham, this dish delivers a satisfying twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 ounces spaghetti cooked and drained
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups chopped fully-cooked ham
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over moderate heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and softened.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to blend thoroughly and form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and cook until the mixture thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Fold in the salt, ham, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the cheeses are fully melted and the ham is warmed through.
- Incorporate the cooked spaghetti, tossing it gently to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
Notes
If the sauce becomes overly thick, add a small amount of milk to adjust the consistency.
Upon standing, the sauce may thicken further; when reheating leftovers, stir in a few tablespoons of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Upon standing, the sauce may thicken further; when reheating leftovers, stir in a few tablespoons of milk to restore the creamy texture.