Pasta Shells, Peas, Ham and Homemade Cheese Sauce

I know kids like the boxed macaroni and "cheese," but I can't help but be concerned of the ingredients and chemicals that are in those foods.  I figured I could make something better and hopefully they'll still like it!  My 11 month old does, hopefully all of your kids will!

Serves 6-8 meals (for kids) plus leftovers to freeze, or 4-6 adults.

Ingredients:

1 Box Medium Pasta Shells
1/2 Stick butter
4-5 Tbsp flour
3 Cups skim milk
1 1/2 Cups shredded cheddar cheese
3/4 Cup frozen thawed peas
1 Slice thick-cut sweet ham (from Deli)

Method:

In a large pot, boil water and cook pasta shells.  Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt butter on low heat.  Stir 4 Tbsp flour, stirring constantly until it forms a paste.  Add milk all at once, and stir constantly getting the lumps out.  If you feel you need more flour to thicken, add more.  If you think you need more milk, add more.  It should be a creamy texture.  Add cheese a little at a time and stir to blend.

Stir in peas and ham.  Add a dash of salt and pepper.

In the large pot used to boil the noodles, return the drained noodles and pour cheese sauce over, stirring to mix.