If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss but packs a flavorful punch, this One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta swimming in a creamy sauce, studded with savory ham and sweet bursts of peas, all cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor fusion. This recipe is as satisfying as it is straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing friends without turning on every burner in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe lies in the simplicity and careful balance of ingredients. Each component plays an essential role: from the buttery base that builds richness, to the tender peas that add color and a hint of sweetness, everything works harmoniously to create that irresistible creamy pasta delight.
- Butter: Provides a rich foundation and helps sauté the ham and garlic perfectly.
- Diced ham: Offers a salty, smoky flavor—feel free to add more if you love that ham punch.
- Minced garlic: Adds an aromatic lift that perfectly complements the ham.
- Dried parsley: Brings subtle herbaceous notes to brighten the dish.
- Plain flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious creaminess without heaviness.
- Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses both the pasta and sauce with gentle savory depth.
- Uncooked pasta: Long, thin shapes like linguine work wonderfully, absorbing flavor and cooking right in the sauce.
- Frozen peas: Add vibrant color and a sweet pop that balances the dish.
- Cream cheese: Creates a silky, creamy texture that makes the dish irresistibly smooth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Finishing touch for an extra layer of umami and richness.
How to Make One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Ham and Garlic
Start by melting butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced ham and minced garlic. Let them sauté together for a few minutes until the ham is lightly browned and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the dish’s savory depth and gives the base flavor a great foundation.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Add Broth
Sprinkle in the dried parsley and then stir in the plain flour. Stir this mixture continually to combine the flour fully with the melted butter and ham, creating a smooth paste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while constantly stirring, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a brief boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. This roux-thickened broth will become your creamy sauce base.
Step 3: Cook Pasta and Peas Together
Add the uncooked pasta directly into the simmering skillet. If needed, break the pasta in half to fit comfortably. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth, then let it cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is nearly cooked through, stir in the frozen peas, and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the peas are tender and the pasta is perfectly done with a creamy sauce clinging beautifully to each strand.
Step 4: Finish with Cream Cheese and Parmesan
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses melt completely into the sauce, creating an irresistibly rich and silky pasta dish. Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and flavor.
How to Serve One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or basil for a burst of fresh color and flavor. A crack of black pepper or a light dusting of extra Parmesan can add a delightful finishing touch that makes every bite shine.
Side Dishes
This creamy and hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette, which helps balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also make excellent companions, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a few peas and ham cubes for a visually appealing plate. Alternatively, for a casual gathering, keep the entire pan warm on the stove and let guests serve themselves, creating a cozy, family-style vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying the fresh meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for much later, this One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture remains delightful, especially if you add a splash of broth while reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a little chicken broth or water as needed to loosen the sauce so it doesn’t dry out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to maintain that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While long, thin pasta like linguine is preferred because it cooks evenly in the sauce, feel free to try penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the pasta’s doneness.
What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or even ricotta for a similar creamy effect with a slightly different texture. For a lighter twist, a splash of cream combined with butter works too, though it might not be as thick.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add mushrooms or smoked tofu to keep the smoky, savory notes that ham usually provides.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas are a wonderful substitution and add an extra pop of brightness. Just add them according to their cooking time—fresh peas may need a little less cooking than frozen, so toss them in towards the end to keep them tender and sweet.
How creamy is the sauce really?
The sauce is luxuriously creamy thanks to the combination of roux, cream cheese, and Parmesan. It hugs the pasta perfectly without being overly heavy, offering a smooth and comforting texture that you’ll want to savor spoonful after spoonful.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the ease and soulfulness of the One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe. It proves you don’t need a long ingredient list or hours in the kitchen to create a dish that feels like a big warm hug. Give it a try soon—you just might find your new go-to meal for happy, hassle-free dinners.
Print
One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta is a quick and creamy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pasta cooks right in a flavorful broth with diced ham, garlic, and peas, then is finished with cream cheese and Parmesan for a rich, comforting dish all made in a single skillet. It’s easy to prepare with minimal cleanup and offers a delicious way to use up leftover ham.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced ham (or more if you like)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed)
- 1 (8-oz) box uncooked pasta (preferably linguine or other long, thin shapes)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 oz cream cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté ham and garlic: Melt butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the diced ham and minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the ham is lightly browned.
- Make the roux and broth mixture: Stir in dried parsley and plain flour to the ham and garlic mixture. Cook for about a minute while stirring continuously. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a boil once before reducing the heat to a simmer.
- Cook pasta and peas: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, breaking it in half if necessary to fully submerge it in the liquid. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly cooked. Then stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the pasta is tender and the peas are heated through, resulting in a creamy sauce.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan until fully melted and incorporated. Serve the pasta immediately while creamy and hot.
Notes
- If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add extra chicken broth or water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- You can substitute peas for other frozen vegetables like spinach or broccoli florets.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer but thinner, long pasta works best for quick cooking in one pot.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when making the roux.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.
