Prosciutto and Pea Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh green peas (1 cup)
• Prosciutto (8 slices, chopped)
• Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
• Milk (2 cups)
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
• Macaroni (2 cups)

Instructions

1. Boil the macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the peas. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring it's fully incorporated into the roux before adding more. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir the cooked macaroni, peas, and chopped prosciutto into the cheese sauce until everything is well coated and combined.
6. Serve the mac and cheese hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of chopped prosciutto if desired. Enjoy your gourmet comfort food!