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Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta

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This Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta is a rich and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender pasta is coated in a velvety cheese sauce with savory chunks of ham and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy meal is perfect for using up leftover ham and delivering cheesy goodness in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups (225 g) diced cooked ham
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 

Instructions

🍝 Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil the Pasta:
    • Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions.
    • Drain and set aside.

🍳 Make the Creamy Sauce:

  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:

    • In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add chopped onion and sauté until soft (2-3 minutes).
    • Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

  2. Add Ham:

    • Stir in diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.

  3. Create the Roux:

    • Sprinkle flour over the ham and stir well to coat.
    • Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

  4. Add Liquids:

    • Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth.
    • Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce begins to thicken (3-5 minutes).

🧀 Add Cheese and Seasoning:

  1. Melt the Cheese:

    • Stir in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan (if using) until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
    • Pour in heavy cream for a richer sauce (optional).

  2. Season the Sauce:

    • Add black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

🍲 Combine with Pasta:

  1. Mix in Pasta:

    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
    • Toss until pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.

  2. Optional Topping:

    • For a baked pasta dish, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.

🍽️ Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

  2. Serving Suggestions:

    • Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

 

Notes

  • Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating Tip: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/creamy-ham-cheese-pasta/