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If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying pasta dinner that comes together quickly in just one pot, you are going to love this One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe. It’s one of those magical dishes where simple pantry staples transform into a luscious, cheesy feast, studded with tender peas and savory ham. The beauty here is how everything cooks together seamlessly, saving you from dirtying multiple pots and giving you more time to kick back and enjoy a warm, hearty meal with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe calls for simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, yet each one adds an essential layer of flavor, creaminess, or texture to this dish. From the rich butter and savory ham to the bright peas and creamy cheeses, every component plays its part perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, silky base that helps the flavors meld together.
- 1.5 cups diced ham (or more if you like): Provides that smoky, salty punch that elevates the pasta.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds subtle herbaceous notes to brighten the flavor.
- 6 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed): The flavorful cooking liquid that makes the pasta deliciously tender while forming the sauce.
- 1 (12-oz) box uncooked pasta: Choose long, thin shapes like linguine or small shapes like shells for the perfect texture.
- 1.5 cups frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a sweet, fresh contrast to the savory ham.
- 1 (5-oz) package Boursin cheese with garlic and herbs (OR 4 oz regular cream cheese plus seasoning): Makes the sauce dreamy and creamy with herby garlic undertones.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together.
How to Make One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Ham and Garlic
Begin by melting butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the diced ham and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to develop a little golden color and deepen in flavor. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this quick sauté builds the aromatic foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Create the Roux and Add Broth
Turn the heat down to low and sprinkle the flour and dried parsley into the pan. Stir continuously for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste and evenly coat the ham and garlic. Next, gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, then bring it to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer. This step is key for achieving that creamy, luscious sauce without needing any heavy cream.
Step 3: Cook Pasta and Peas Together
Now add your uncooked pasta into the skillet, breaking longer noodles in half if needed to fully submerge them in the broth. Simmer on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost cooked through. When it’s nearly done, add the frozen peas and let everything simmer for another 4 to 5 minutes. The peas add just the right amount of sweetness and texture as the sauce thickens into creamy perfection.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Boursin cheese (or cream cheese with extra seasoning) and grated Parmesan. These cheeses melt quickly, enriching the sauce with a smooth, velvety texture and plenty of tangy flavor. Give it a final stir, and the One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is ready to serve. Feel free to sprinkle some chopped parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes to customize your plate.
How to Serve One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green, bright lemon zest for freshness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild kick. These simple garnishes bring your dish to life and add personal flair.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, such as a crisp arugula toss with lemon vinaigrette or a simple mixed greens salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette are fantastic companions to mop up any remaining sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel. You can also plate it with a dusting of extra Parmesan and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for an elevated look. For a fun twist, add a fried egg on top or scatter toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This helps keep the pasta tender and the sauce fresh without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta, but be aware that the texture of the peas and pasta might soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months to enjoy it later.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to keep the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or shell pasta work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with penne, fusilli, or even elbows. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a substitute for Boursin cheese?
Yes, regular cream cheese with added garlic and herbs can be used as a great alternative, offering similar creaminess and flavor nuances.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add mushrooms or sautéed vegetables for an extra hearty bite.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and choose gluten-free pasta varieties. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best texture and flavor, you can make it a few hours ahead and gently reheat it when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe is a true weeknight hero that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one pan. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something cozy without the fuss of lots of pots and pans. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your go-to creamy pasta meal. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish that quickly becomes a family favorite!
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Print
One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Ham and Pea Pasta is a quick and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender ham, sweet peas, and creamy Boursin cheese with pasta all cooked together in a flavorful chicken broth-based sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish requires minimal cleanup and offers a delightful balance of savory and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1.5 cups diced ham (or more if you prefer)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 6 cups chicken broth (plus extra as needed)
- 1 (12-oz) box uncooked pasta (linguine, shells, or preferred shape)
- 1.5 cups frozen peas
- 1 (5-oz) package Boursin cheese with garlic and herbs (or 4 oz regular cream cheese plus extra seasoning)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté ham and garlic: Melt butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly browned. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the roux and broth base: Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the flour and dried parsley into the skillet. Stir constantly for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook pasta and peas: Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, making sure it is fully submerged in the broth. If needed, break long pasta in half to fit. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is almost tender, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta shape. Then stir in the frozen peas and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until peas are heated through and pasta is fully cooked with a creamy sauce.
- Finish the dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the Boursin cheese (or cream cheese with seasoning) and grated Parmesan until melted and combined into a luscious sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes according to preference.
Notes
- You can use more ham if you want a meatier dish or substitute with other cooked meats.
- If the sauce gets too thick while cooking pasta, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- Breaking longer pasta in half helps it fit better and cook evenly in one pot.
- Using Boursin cheese adds extra garlic-herb flavor, but cream cheese with seasoning is a great substitute.
- For added freshness and color, garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest before serving.
