If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying dish that comes together quickly yet bursts with flavor, this Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. It features tender elbow macaroni bathed in a creamy sauce enriched with savory ham and sweet peas, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re after an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends with minimal effort, this recipe hits all the right notes and feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity, made from a handful of ingredients that each bring something essential to the table. From the tender bite of elbow macaroni to the luscious creaminess of heavy cream, and the bright pop of fresh parsley, every component enhances the overall comfort and irresistible appeal.
- 1 pound dry elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the creamy sauce and tender peas.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions for a flavorful base.
- 1 yellow onion (diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, inviting flavor without overpowering it.
- 10 ounces frozen peas: Bright green jewels that add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 16 ounces ham steaks (cubed): Delivers savory meatiness that’s central to the dish’s heartiness.
- 1¼ cups heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that makes this pasta so comforting.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds a subtle depth and helps balance the creaminess.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce to add sharpness and umami.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring everything into harmony.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This step is crucial because the pasta texture is the foundation of the dish. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to get ready for the creamy sauce and flavorful additions.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté it gently until it becomes translucent and soft—this usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook it for an additional minute so its aroma can really start to shine without any bitterness.
Step 3: Add Ham and Peas
Toss in the cubed ham steaks and frozen peas directly into the skillet with the softened onions and garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through and the peas to gently thaw. This step combines the savory, meaty flavor with the sweet freshness of peas, building layers of deliciousness.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly, melding the rich creaminess with the salty ham flavor. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep everything well combined and avoid sticking.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce, creating an irresistibly smooth texture with a hint of sharpness. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Next, add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and stir everything until the pasta is fully coated and warmed through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish. The parsley not only adds a beautiful burst of green but also a subtle freshness that balances the creamy sauce perfectly. Your Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed immediately!
How to Serve Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic finishing touch, but feel free to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. A drizzle of good quality olive oil can also elevate the flavors and add a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
This creamy, hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also make excellent companions, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving the Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with a small parsley sprig. You can also complement it with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture contrast that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. When storing, it’s a good idea to keep the pasta separate from any garnishes like fresh parsley, adding them fresh before serving again.
Freezing
Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture of the peas might soften slightly after freezing, but the creamy sauce will still remain comforting and tasty.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to revive the creaminess. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream as you warm it up can restore the sauce’s luscious texture beautifully. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is ideal because it holds the sauce well, other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or shells will work perfectly. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just be careful with the heat when using yogurt to avoid curdling.
Can I prepare this recipe without ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and increase the peas or add other vegetables like mushrooms or asparagus to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
Try sautéing the onions with a pinch of smoked paprika or adding a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the cream for a delicious depth of flavor in the sauce.
What is the best way to reheat leftover Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe?
Reheat it slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a little broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth and prevent it from drying out. Using the microwave is fine too but heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, comforting hug after a busy day, yet it comes together so simply and quickly. The perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender ham, and sweet peas makes it a reliable favorite for any occasion. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful pasta as much as I do—it’s a keeper in my kitchen, and I’m sure it will be in yours too!
Print
Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and comforting Ham and Pea Pasta recipe featuring tender elbow macaroni, sautéed ham, sweet peas, and a rich Parmesan-infused cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner for four.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound dry elbow macaroni (1 box)
Sauce and Mix-ins
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces frozen peas (1 package)
- 16 ounces ham steaks, cut into ½ inch cubes (2 packages)
- 1¼ cups heavy cream, room temperature
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Ham and Peas: Stir in the cubed ham and frozen peas, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.
- Simmer Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes or until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Cheese and Season: Mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the cheese and seasoning.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and stir well. Cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until the pasta is warmed through and fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese as desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for better flavor and texture.
- You can substitute frozen peas with fresh peas when in season for a sweeter taste.
- This dish can be made ahead by cooking the pasta and sauce separately, then combining before reheating gently.
- Adjust salt carefully because ham and Parmesan already contribute saltiness.
