Creamy Ham and Pea Penne

"A comforting and quick pasta dish featuring savory ham, sweet green peas, and penne pasta coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal."
Ingredients
All Steps
- 1
Cook penne pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- 2
While the pasta is cooking, mince the garlic cloves and dice the cooked ham into small cubes.
- 3
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 4
Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned.
- 5
Stir in the frozen green peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
- 6
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- 7
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- 8
If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 9
Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Serve immediately.