Cheesy Ham-Penne Casserole

Ingredients

• 16 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained (measure 16 ounces uncooked, I use half of a 900-gram package)
• 3 cups cubed cooked ham (or use as much as desired)
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (or 1/2 teaspoon white salt)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional or to taste)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups half-and-half cream (or use half milk and cream)
• 2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 4 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese (a little more won't hurt)

Directions

1. 1

   Set oven to 350 degrees F.

2. 2

   Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.

3. 3

   Place the cooked penne and the ham into a large bowl; set aside.

4. 4

   In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium heat.

5. 5

   Add in mustard powder, black pepper, seasoned salt and cayenne pepper and onion, stir and cook for about 4 minutes.

6. 6

   Add in garlic; cook stirring for 2 minutes.

7. 7

   Add in flour and mix continously for 2 minutes.

8. 8

   Slowly add in the cream and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese; cook stirring over medium-low heat until bubbly.

9. 9

   Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until completely melted.

10. 10

    Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and ham; toss until well combined.

11. 11

    Transfer to a greased baking dish.

12. 12

    Sprinkle the top with about 1/3 cup or more Parmesan cheese.

13. 13

    Cover and bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.