Sarasota's Ham Pea Penne in a Fontina Cheese Sauce

Indulge in the creamy, comforting elegance of Sarasota's Ham Pea Penne in a Fontina Cheese Sauce—a pasta dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Featuring tender penne pasta smothered in a luscious, velvety sauce made with Fontina and Parmesan cheeses, this recipe brings bold flavor to every bite. The addition of savory cubed ham and sweet, vibrant peas adds a delightful contrast of textures and tastes, all enhanced by a hint of garlic and fresh parsley for garnish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy-to-make pasta recipe is perfect for satisfying cravings while keeping prep stress-free. Ideal for cheese lovers and comfort food enthusiasts, this dish is an irresistible centerpiece for your dining table.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1.5 cups Fontina cheese (shredded)
• 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 cup deli ham (cubed)
• 1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the cubed ham and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the mixture is golden and smooth.

Step 4

Slowly pour the milk into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 5

Lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the shredded Fontina cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper.

Step 6

Add the cooked ham and garlic mixture, along with the thawed peas, to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine and heat through for 2 minutes.

Step 7

Toss the drained penne pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8

Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1622.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3577.0

Total Fat 158.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 85.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.6g
Cholesterol 487.7mg	0%
Sodium 7369.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 328.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.2g	0%
Total Sugars 37.6g
Protein 206.1g	0%

Vitamin D 255.2IU	0%
Calcium 3205.2mg	0%
Iron 18.2mg	0%
Potassium 2796.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.0%

Protein: 23.1%

Carbs: 36.9%