Ham & Garlic Pasta

I took a few blog vacation days and relaxed with a couple of my comfort foods ~ chili and tater tot hotdish.  With blizzard warnings up, I decided it was time for a new comfort food dinner.

Ham & Garlic Pasta

1/2# orecchiette pasta, cooked per package instructions
3/4 cup ham, diced
1/2 cup peas
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1/2 cup cream
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

In a small saucepan, melt butter.  When completely melted, stir in flour and garlic.  Allow to thicken slightly and gradually stir in cream and milk and bring to a simmer.  In a large saucepan, cook the orecchiette.  When done, drain and stir in ham and peas.  Pour in garlic cream sauce.  Fold in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt and freshly ground pepper.