Ham-and-Cheese Fusilli Casserole

Makes: 8 servings

Prep: 30 mins
Bake: 15 mins 375°F

Ingredients

1 pound dried fusilli pasta, cooked according to package directions
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2/3 cup chopped onion
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
2 cups (8 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
1 14 ounce can tomatoes, cut up
8 ounces sliced baked ham, cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips
1 cup frozen peas
1/3 cup plain dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Heat oven to 375 degree F. Grease a 3-quart ovenproof casserole; set aside.

2. Melt butter in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3 minutes. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly pour milk into saucepan, stirring constantly. Bring to boil, reduce heat, and simmer until thickened, 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Whisk in cheese, mustard, salt, and peppers. Toss cheese sauce with pasta, tomatoes, ham, and peas in a large bowl. Pour into prepared casserole.

3. Make Crumb Topping: Combine all topping ingredients and sprinkle over casserole. Bake 15 minutes or until golden. Makes 8 servings.