Baked Ham Rigatoni

This one is a keeper. Everyone loved it. I think it would be good with some steamed broccoli in it so I might try that next time I make it. I got this from another one of my favorite blogs!!


BAKED HAM RIGATONI


1 pkg (16 oz) rigatoni pasta

2 - tablespoons real butter (1 oz)

1/2 cup flour

1 qt milk (4 cups)

2 cups grated mozzarella cheese (separated)

about 1/2 lb thinly sliced ham

seasonings

(onion salt, pepper, cayenne pepper is optional)

small pads of butter for top



Preheat oven to 425degrees. Melt butter over medium heat and start water boiling for pasta. Once butter is melted, whisk in flour. Add your milk, and continue to stir until the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon. When the water is boiling, add pasta and cook until just past the Al-dente stage. Just starting to get soft. When the white sauce is done, add your seasoning, ham, and one cup cheese. stir well, to get the cheese melted. Drain your pasta and add to the sauce. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 pan, smooth the top and sprinkle with remaining cup of cheese. Dot the top with your pads of butter and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and brown.