Baked Penne With Ham, Peas, and Jack Cheese

• penne pasta↗1 lb
• olive oil↗3 tablespoons
• small onion↗1

  finely chopped

• large ripe tomatoes↗1

  peeled, seeded, and finely chopped

• all-purpose flour↗3 tablespoons
• milk↗4 cups
• salt↗
• black pepper↗
• shredded monterey jack cheese2 cups
• frozen peas↗1

  thawed

• cooked ham↗1⁄2 lb

  diced

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a big pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

2. 2

   Preheat oven to 350°; grease a 3-quart casserole dish; set aside.

3. 3

   In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat; add in onion and tomato; stir for 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Sprinkle flour over the top and continue to stir for about 1 minute.

5. 5

   Gradually add the milk, whisking rapidly until the sauce is smooth.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper; add 1 cup cheese, and stir until it melts and the sauce is smooth.

7. 7

   Add the cheese sauce, peas, and ham to the pasta; toss until well blended.

8. 8

   Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole; sprinkle remaining cheese over the top; bake until bubbly and golden brown, about 30 minutes.