Pasta with Peas and Ham Recipe
Introduction
This simple pasta with peas and ham is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ham, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. ditalini pasta
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas
- 8 oz. ham steak
- 1 Tbsp salted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just tender. One minute before the pasta is done, add the frozen peas to the pot. Drain the pasta and peas in a colander.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, dice the ham into small pieces. Return the empty pot to medium heat, add the diced ham and butter, and cook, stirring often, until the ham browns slightly.
- Step 3: Add the drained pasta and peas back to the pot with the heavy cream. Stir and warm over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot as you go.
- Step 4: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan, then season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use leftover cooked ham for a quicker version, or substitute with cooked bacon for a smoky twist.
- For extra flavor, add a minced garlic clove when browning the ham.
- Try swapping ditalini for small elbow macaroni or shells if you prefer.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it seems dry.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used. Add them during the last few minutes of pasta cooking time to ensure they stay tender but not overcooked.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich. To thicken, simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.
PrintPasta with Peas and Ham Recipe
This comforting pasta dish combines tender ditalini pasta with sweet peas and savory ham steak in a creamy Parmesan sauce. A quick and easy skillet meal perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 oz. ditalini pasta
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper
Fresh/Frozen Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen sweet peas
- 8 oz. ham steak
- 1 Tbsp salted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Cook pasta and peas: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook until just tender. Add the frozen sweet peas and cook together for one additional minute. Drain both pasta and peas in a colander.
- Prepare ham: While the pasta cooks, dice the ham steak into small pieces. Return the empty pot to medium heat, add the diced ham and butter, and cook stirring often until the ham is nicely browned.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta and peas back into the pot with the browned ham. Pour in the heavy cream and stir over medium heat until the cream is hot and the browned bits are lifted off the bottom of the pot.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pot from heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the pasta, and stir to combine. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ditalini or small pasta shapes for best results.
- Frozen peas can be replaced with fresh peas if available.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream.
- To add more flavor, consider including minced garlic during ham browning step.
- Resist overcooking pasta for the best texture.
Keywords: pasta, peas, ham, creamy pasta, quick dinner, one-pot pasta
