Description
A comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring diced ham and melted cheese in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Sprinkle flour over the ham and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Garnish with dried parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce.
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce or low-fat milk for a lighter version.