Coquillettes au Jambon (French Macaroni and Cheese with Ham)

Steps

1. 1
   Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of cooking water, drain the pasta, rinse briefly under cold water, and set aside.
2. 2
   Heat the milk in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling, then set aside.
3. 3
   Melt the butter in the pasta pot over medium heat, add flour, and whisk for 2 minutes until smooth and glossy, without browning.
4. 4
   While whisking vigorously, add half the hot milk until thick, then slowly pour in the remaining milk while whisking until smooth and lump-free.
5. 5
   Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, then stir to combine.
6. 6
   Add the Gruyère cheese and whisk until fully melted.
7. 7
   Add the diced ham and stir to combine.
8. 8
   Pour in 1/2 cup pasta water, stir, and bring to a light simmer until the sauce is silky and slightly loose.
9. 9
   Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the cheese sauce. Add more pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
10. 10
    Serve immediately while hot and creamy, finished with a crack of black pepper.