Chipotle Cheese Ham Penne Bake
Creamy, smoky, and cheesy, this penne bake is a cozy hug on a plate with a kick of chipotle heat.
Total: 60 minPrep: 15 minCook: 45 min8 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- 3 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced ham until lightly browned.
- 4 In a large bowl, combine cooked penne, ham, diced tomatoes, corn, cheddar cheese, and chipotle peppers.
- 5 In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream and evaporated milk. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 6 Pour the creamy mixture over the penne mixture and stir until well combined.
- 7 Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and top with Monterey Jack cheese.
- 8 Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- 9 Garnish with green onions before serving.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- skillet
- baking sheet (optional)
Variations
- Substitute ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions
- Use milk instead of evaporated milk for a lighter texture.
Pairings
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh fruit salad.
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
38g carbohydrates
Protein:
24g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
6g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- For extra spice, add more chipotle peppers to taste.
- This bake can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ham?
Absolutely, cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken works great as a substitute.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild kick; adjust the number of chipotle peppers to your spice preference.