Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta

A comforting and creamy pasta dish loaded with ham and cheese, this recipe is a perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a hearty meal to impress, this pasta will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple pantry-friendly ingredients
• A great way to use up leftover ham
• Kid-friendly and perfect for the whole family
• Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well)
• Cooked ham, diced
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Milk
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly golden.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
5. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy cheese sauce.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for gouda, Swiss, or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this pasta lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short or long pasta will work, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I use uncooked ham?

For best results, use cooked ham. If using raw ham, cook it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly grated cheese and melt it over low heat while stirring constantly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cream-based sauces do not freeze well, but you can freeze the ham and cheese mixture separately and prepare fresh pasta when needed.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a little more milk or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon would be great additions.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add a dollop of cream cheese or an extra splash of heavy cream while cooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Ham Cheese Pasta is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With its rich, cheesy sauce and savory ham, this dish is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a delicious homemade pasta meal in no time!

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