Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta: A Comforting Delight Recipe

Name: Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti); 1 cup diced ham; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: April 8, 2025

by Liora

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
The flavor profile is a delightful blend of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness that will leave you craving more.
Visually appealing with its golden hues and inviting aroma, it’s perfect for impressing guests or family alike.
This dish is incredibly versatile; serve it hot or cold as leftovers for lunch the next day!

Ingredients for Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta

For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use any pasta you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work beautifully for this recipe.
Diced Ham: Choose high-quality ham for the best flavor; leftover holiday ham works great too!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its signature creaminess; you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella provides the perfect balance of sharpness and meltiness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth; use more if you’re feeling adventurous.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a pop of color on your plate; feel free to use dried parsley in a pinch.

For the Seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously—think ocean water levels. Drop in your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot (because who wants extra dishes?), add a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant—about one minute should do it.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer gently but don’t let it boil! Then gradually add shredded cheese while stirring until it’s melted into that glorious sauce we all love.

Step 4: Combine with Ham

Fold diced ham into the creamy mixture, letting all those flavors meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper—taste as you go!

Step 5: Mix with Pasta

Gently stir in your drained pasta until every noodle is coated in that luscious sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Transfer your Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley because we all know we eat with our eyes first!

Dive into this decadent bowl of joy—it’s comfort food at its finest! Enjoy every last bite knowing you’ve mastered a dish that perfectly balances ease and indulgence.

You Must Know

This creamy ham cheese pasta recipe is not only delicious but also a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
It’s rich, cheesy, and you can toss in whatever veggies you have lying around.
Perfect for impressing guests or just indulging yourself on a cozy night in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta to al dente perfection. While that’s bubbling away, sauté your ham until it’s golden and crispy. Then, whisk up your creamy sauce and combine everything for a seamless finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner options. Toss in some broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients, or spice it up with crushed red pepper for a kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and richer flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing; it helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
Always taste as you go—seasoning can make all the difference!

I remember the first time I made this creamy ham cheese pasta for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about it! It quickly became our go-to dish for game nights. quick healthy snack alternatives.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta?

To prepare Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta, gather essential ingredients including pasta, diced ham, cream cheese, shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), garlic, onion, and your choice of seasonings. You can also add vegetables such as spinach or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. This combination creates a rich and creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

How long does it take to make Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta?

Making Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta is quick and easy. Typically, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta while simultaneously preparing the creamy sauce with ham and cheese. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners.

Can I customize the recipe for Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. delicious chicken cordon bleu meatloaf Additionally, you can substitute different types of cheese or even use leftover chicken instead of ham. Feel free to experiment to suit your taste preferences.

Is Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated. To ensure optimal flavor and texture, store the pasta and sauce separately if possible. This way, you maintain creaminess when you reheat your meal throughout the week.

Conclusion for Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta:

Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta offers a deliciously satisfying dish that combines savory ham with a rich cheese sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and plenty of customization options, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make this dish fit your taste. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your personal twist, this comforting meal will surely become a family favorite.

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📖 Recipe Card