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Ham and Pea Pasta

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This Ham and Pea Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish made with tender pasta, savory ham, and sweet peas in a light garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal using pantry-friendly ingredients!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work great!)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 cup cooked ham, diced (leftover ham works perfectly!)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw!)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version!)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving!)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste!)
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor!)
  • ½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta!)
  • Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for a fresh touch!)

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat!)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Ham & Garlic

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Add peas, heavy cream, Parmesan, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until smooth and creamy.
  3. Stir in lemon juice (if using) for a fresh flavor boost.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh salad!
  • With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce!
  • With a Side Salad: Try it with a Caesar or garden salad.
  • With Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Notes

  • Make it lighter! Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
  • Want it extra cheesy? Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère.
  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and adjust cooking time as needed.
  • Spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/ham-and-pea-pasta/