Hearty Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni
• 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• Vegetable cooking spray
• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 (8-ounce) block sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

Preparation

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm.
2. Sauté ham and onion in a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat 5 minutes; stir in peas and next 3 ingredients. Set aside.
3. Melt butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat; whisk in flour until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, and cook, whisking constantly, 5 minutes or until mixture is thickened. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in cooked pasta and ham mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Serve immediately.