Description
Creamy One-Pot Veggie Pasta with Ham
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) farfalle (bowtie pasta)
2 cups cooked ham, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup diced carrots
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Sauté veggies and ham: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced ham, peas, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
Make the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, creating a creamy base.
Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked farfalle pasta to the pot. Stir and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
Add cheese and season: Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve hot!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
#OnePotMeals #VeggiePasta #CreamyGoodness #HamRecipes #EasyDinner #ComfortFood #FamilyFavorite
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Dice the cooked ham and carrots. Grate the Parmesan cheese and measure out all other ingredients before starting.
2. Sauté Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the ham, peas, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the ham is lightly browned and the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the 2 tbsp of flour over the ham and veggie mixture. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook the raw flour taste out and form a paste (roux) that will thicken the sauce.
4. Whisk in Liquids: Slowly pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and creates a smooth, creamy base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook the Pasta: Add the 12 oz of uncooked farfalle pasta to the simmering sauce. Stir well. Reduce heat to maintain a low simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking. Cook until pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
6. Finish the Dish: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery dinner roll. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes at the table allows guests to customize their bowl.
How-to Summary
In one pot, sauté ham and veggies in butter. Make a roux with flour, then whisk in broth and milk to create a creamy sauce. Add uncooked pasta directly to the sauce, simmer until tender, then finish with Parmesan cheese and seasoning. A complete, comforting dinner made in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for substance.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk? Absolutely. Using heavy cream will create an even richer, thicker sauce. You may need to add a splash of extra broth if it becomes too thick.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables? Definitely. Spinach (added at the end), bell peppers, or corn are excellent additions. For firmer veggies, add them with the carrots to ensure they cook through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the pasta before the sauce base has come to a simmer, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Do not skip the step of cooking the flour for a full minute to avoid a raw, pasty taste in your sauce. Resist the urge to boil the mixture vigorously after adding the pasta; a gentle simmer is key to cooking the pasta evenly without breaking it or scorching the milk. Finally, add the Parmesan cheese off the heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Conclusion
This Creamy One-Pot Veggie Pasta with Ham is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight. It delivers maximum flavor and comfort with minimal effort and cleanup. By combining simple ingredients in a single pot, you create a satisfying, creamy dish that the whole family will love. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization, ensuring it will become a reliable favorite in your dinner rotation.