Indulge yourself in the flavorsome delight of Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta, a dish that seamlessly combines the wholesome essence of hearty pasta, savory ham, and naturally sweet peas, all enveloped in a velvety sauce. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, especially after a long day. Picture a relaxed evening with friends and family where the aroma of this creamy pasta fills the air, promising comfort in every bite. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise its deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys unfussy yet scrumptious meals. The magic of this dish lies in its ease, with just a sprinkle of Parmesan and a touch of fresh parsley to elevate its flavors to lavish heights.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta

Simple and Quick: Perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal effort.
Deliciously Creamy: The sauce brings the pasta, ham, and peas together in a lush, indulgent way.
Family-Friendly: A comforting meal that caters to all ages and tastes.
Customizable: Add your choice of vegetables or extra cheese to suit your palate.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to set up a well-organized kitchen space. Make sure that all your ingredients are measured and ready to go. You will need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a sturdy skillet for an all-in-one cooking approach. Having these tools at hand ensures the cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable. A sharp knife is crucial for dicing the ham, and a garlic press can be handy for mincing the garlic efficiently. As you prepare, keep a slotted spoon nearby for stirring and serving the pasta, along with a strainer to quickly drain the cooked pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (any kind)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta and keep it aside. This will save time, allowing you to focus on the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Ham

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the diced ham. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the ham turns lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor of the ham, giving it a slight crisp.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Peas

Introduce the minced garlic into the skillet, mixing well with the ham. Allow it to cook for 1 to 2 minutes until its fragrance blooms. Next, stir in the frozen peas and let them cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to thaw and meld with the other flavors.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the ham, garlic, and peas. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken and coat the ingredients beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it thoroughly to ensure each strand is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and integrated, then season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking. Finish with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Variations

Protein: Swap out ham for cooked chicken or turkey for a different yet delightful flavor.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to introduce more texture and nutrition.
Spices: Enhance the dish with a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

For a richer sauce, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
Ensure the pasta is drained well to avoid watering down the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad to complement its creaminess.
Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for added texture and flavor.

Tips

To prevent the peas from overcooking, add them only after the ham is browned.
Keep stirring the sauce to ensure it doesn’t scorch at the bottom of the skillet.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 18 grams
Sodium: 670 mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead, but to maintain optimal texture, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half or whole milk if you want a lighter version, though it may slightly alter the sauce’s thickness.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not recommended to freeze due to the cream sauce which might separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.

Conclusion

The Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta dish encapsulates the comfort of home-cooked meals with its creamy, tasty, and hearty components. It’s a recipe worth adding to your weekly meal rotation, especially for those days when you crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare. Experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences and feel free to share your experience or tweaks in the comments. Whether it’s for a casual dinner with family or a cozy meal for one, this pasta dish promises to deliver satisfaction and warmth in every forkful. Enjoy the simplicity and the effortless elegance of this meal, and don’t hesitate to let us know how it turns out for you!