This creamy Ham and Pea Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, with creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, savory ham, and sweet peas. It’s quick to prepare yet feels indulgent and satisfying.
This dish is perfect for a family dinner, an easy weeknight meal, or when you’re craving something creamy and delicious. The combination of flavors is simple yet comforting, making it a great choice for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley for the ultimate touch!
Full Recipe:
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8 oz pasta (any kind)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup cooked ham, diced
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1 cup frozen peas
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced ham and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s lightly browned.
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Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in the peas and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this ham and pea pasta such a hit in the kitchen is its simplicity and flavor. Using leftover ham, it transforms your holiday meats into a deliciously easy dinner. Whether it’s post-Easter or after a holiday dinner, this recipe is a perfect way to utilize leftover ham without feeling like you’re repeating the same old meals. The creamy sauce enhances the flavors of the ham, peas, and pasta, making every bite rich and indulgent.
This recipe is also versatile, as you can use various short pasta shapes, from elbow macaroni to penne, depending on your preference. Additionally, the dish relies on easy-to-find ingredients like onions, garlic, butter, and chicken broth, so you don’t have to worry about any complicated shopping trips. It’s an ideal dish to whip up on any night when time is tight but you still want to serve something hearty and flavorful.
Tips for a Perfect Ham and Pea Pasta
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Use Room Temperature Cream: One of the essential tips for this recipe is to ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. If it’s too cold, it could curdle when added to the hot mixture. Adding it off the heat entirely for a moment also prevents curdling.
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Opt for Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best texture and flavor, it’s highly recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess and flavor.
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Don’t Overcook the Peas: While frozen peas are the best option for this recipe, they should be added directly from the freezer. Overcooking them can cause them to lose their vibrant color and texture, turning them mushy. A few minutes of cooking in the skillet is all they need.
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Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: To ensure your pasta retains a perfect texture, be sure to follow the package instructions and cook it al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when combined with the creamy sauce.
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Customize the Dish: The ham and pea pasta can easily be customized to your taste. You can switch up the veggies by adding mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted red peppers. You can also add a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat with your creamy pasta.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about ham and pea pasta is how well it stores. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place the pasta in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or more cream to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
It’s important to note that this dish does not freeze well due to its creamy sauce. Freezing the pasta can cause the sauce to separate when reheated, compromising the texture and flavor. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or store the leftovers in the fridge for a short time.
Pairing Suggestions for Ham and Pea Pasta
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, as the creaminess of the pasta calls for something fresh and crisp to balance the richness. Consider a vibrant kale Caesar salad, which brings an earthy element to the table, or a refreshing spinach and berry salad for a contrast of sweet and savory flavors. Both will complement the creamy ham and pea pasta, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
You could also serve it with a slice of garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a more filling dinner. A glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay, would also pair well with the richness of the dish.
The Versatility of Ham and Pea Pasta
While this recipe is primarily designed as a quick, creamy dinner, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. You can prepare it for a casual weeknight family meal, or serve it as a part of a larger dinner spread at a gathering. Since it comes together so quickly, it’s a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen but still want a delicious, comforting dish. It’s also an ideal choice for using up leftover ham after the holidays, so you can enjoy a new meal without the extra hassle.
Conclusion: The Comfort of Ham and Pea Pasta
In conclusion, ham and pea pasta is a dish that combines simplicity and flavor, making it a great choice for a variety of occasions. Its creamy, cheesy sauce coats the ham, peas, and pasta in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this pasta checks all the boxes. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s a winner for both beginners and experienced home cooks alike. Make this dish your go-to recipe for comfort food that’s quick, delicious, and satisfying for the whole family.