Pasta with Cream and Ham is one of the most beloved comfort foods by Italian families, a dish that immediately evokes childhood memories and simple flavors. Although considered a “quick” recipe, the real magic lies in the final creaminess.
I must admit that for me it is the “dinner-saver” or “lunch-saver” dish par excellence: I make it when I’m really out of ideas or when I arrive late from work, knowing that I almost always have a pack of cooked ham in the fridge that solves my meal!
In just 15 minutes, with a few and selected ingredients (pasta, cooked ham, and cooking cream), you can create a velvety and perfectly creamy first course that will win everyone over, from children to adults. Follow our tricks for a stress-free result and a rich consistency that is never watery!
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very cheap
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
Ingredients
- 11.3 oz Pasta
- 5 slices Cooked ham (also a slice cut into cubes)
- 1/2 Onion (White or 1 shallot)
- 3/4 cup cooking cream
- to taste Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- to taste Parmesan cheese
Tools
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Grater
Preparation
Put a pot with plenty of salted water on the stove and bring to a boil. Add the pasta (I recommend short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle) and cook according to the times indicated on the package.
Short pasta better captures the creaminess of the sauce, making a tastier dish.Meanwhile, while the water is on the stove, prepare the sauce.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and add the finely chopped onion (white or shallot, depending on preferences). Sauté over medium-low heat without burning it.
Golden onion gives a delicate aroma and a richer flavor to the dish.Add the cooked ham, diced, to the skillet with the onion. If you prefer, you can use a thick slice of cooked ham and cut it into cubes. Sauté for a few minutes until it’s well browned.
Roasted cooked ham enhances its flavor, enriching the dish.Pour the cream into the skillet and stir to combine all the ingredients. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside to avoid the cream becoming too thick.
The cream creates a creamy texture that perfectly envelops the pasta, making the dish soft and rich.Drain the pasta al dente and transfer it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything over medium heat, adding, if necessary, a little cooking water to achieve a creamy consistency. Continue stirring until the pasta is perfectly coated in the cream. Once the desired creaminess is reached, turn off the heat to prevent the cream from setting and losing its velvety texture.
The pasta cooking water contains starch, which helps to better blend the sauce.Plate it and add a grinding of black pepper and some grated Parmesan cheese to taste. The dish is ready to be served!
Tips
Use short pasta for better sauce retention.
If you like a stronger flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream.
You can add some prosciutto crudo for a richer and more flavorful touch.
Notes
If the cream becomes too thick, just add a little pasta cooking water to restore the creaminess.
Variations
Pasta with peas: add peas (already cooked or frozen) to the skillet with the ham and onion. Their sweet flavor perfectly matches the creaminess of the cream.
Pasta with sausage: replace the cooked ham with crumbled sausage. Sauté it with onion for a stronger flavor.
FAQ – Pasta with Cream and Cooked Ham
Can I use plant-based cream for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace cooking cream with a plant-based version for a lactose-free alternative.
Can I prepare the pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the cream and freshly cooked pasta at the last moment.
Pasta with cream and ham is a dish that never disappoints. Easy to prepare, tasty, and always appreciated, it is the ideal choice for those who have little time but do not want to give up a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion!
