The baked pasta with ham and peas is that comfort food that immediately brings back family Sunday lunches.
A rich and creamy dish, wrapped in the delicacy of béchamel and the unmistakable taste of ham, with sweet peas adding a touch of freshness. Everything is enhanced by a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and the San Marzano tomato sauce, which provides a cozy and flavorful note.
If you prefer a white version, just eliminate the tomato sauce and add mozzarella or fiordilatte for a stringy and appetizing result. Easy to prepare, this baked pasta never disappoints!
Also try these other delicious baked pasta recipes:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 25 Minutes
- Portions: 6 people
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Baked Pasta with Ham and Peas
- 1.3 lbs pasta
- 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes
- 7 oz ham
- 8 oz peas
- 2 cups béchamel
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic
- leaves basil
- 4 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
- 3 pinches salt
Preparation of Baked Pasta with Ham and Peas
Boil plenty of salted water in a large pot.
Prepare the tomato sauce. Pass the San Marzano tomatoes and collect the sauce in a bowl.In a pan, brown a clove of garlic in three tablespoons of oil. Pour in the tomato sauce and salt. Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes (1). Add the chopped basil and remove from the heat.
In another hot pan, add the ham cubes, and brown for a few minutes over low heat (2). Then, add the peas, lightly salt, and let them flavor for 3 minutes (3). Now add 4-5 tablespoons of béchamel (4). Let the ingredients blend and turn off the heat.
In the meantime, cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and pour it into a bowl, adding part of the sauce and a few ladles of tomato sauce.
Brush the surface of a baking dish with a little béchamel and tomato. Then, pour in half of the pasta. Level the surface and add the remaining pea, ham, and béchamel mixture. Sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan. Finish with the remaining pasta, covering the surface with tomato sauce, béchamel, and grated Parmesan (5).
Bake in a preheated oven at 392°F for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, serve the baked pasta with ham and peas.
Storage
Baked pasta with ham and peas can be stored in an airtight container or covered with aluminum foil, in the fridge, for 2-3 days. To enjoy it at its best, heat it in the oven at 320°F for about 10-15 minutes, covering it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out too much. Alternatively, you can also reheat it in a pan over low heat.
Related Recipes
Stuffed Shells with Provola and Arugula
Bolognese Lasagna Traditional Recipe
Lasagna with Potatoes and Porcini
FAQ
Can I substitute the ham?
If you want an alternative, you can use sweet pancetta, speck, or even diced mortadella for a more intense flavor.
Is it possible to make it without béchamel?
If you prefer, you can replace the béchamel with cooking cream or ricotta.
Can I prepare baked pasta with ham and peas in advance?
Yes. You can assemble the baked pasta a few hours ahead, store it in the fridge, and then bake it when ready to serve.
