For a quick and satisfying dinner, this creamy ham and pea pasta brings tender pasta, diced ham, and sweet peas together in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s ready in about 30 minutes: boil pasta, make a simple roux-based sauce, then stir in ham, peas, and Parmesan until everything is silky and heated through.
If your weeknights need an easy, tasty solution, this Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta is here to save the day. It uses simple pantry staples and leftover ham, so you can make a comforting meal with minimal effort. The sauce is velvety and the peas add a pop of sweetness. Kids and adults alike will love this kid-friendly, family-approved dish.
This pasta stands out because of its simple yet rich flavors. A light garlic-Parmesan cream sauce coats every bite, giving a touch of restaurant-quality taste. Sweet peas bring color and nutrition, while savory ham adds hearty protein and umami. The dish is fully customizable: you can swap in your favorite pasta shapes or seasonings. Overall, it’s a versatile comfort meal that tastes like you worked hard, even when you didn’t.
Gather these simple ingredients for success:
1. Pasta (ziti, penne, or fusilli)
Amount: 450 g (1 lb)
Any short pasta works well
2. Butter
Amount: 85 g (6 tbsp)
Use 2 tbsp for sautéing and 4 tbsp for sauce
3. Onion
Amount: 1 medium, chopped
Adds sweetness and aroma to the base
4. Garlic
Amount: 4 cloves, minced
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor
5. Flour
Amount: 3 tbsp
Helps thicken sauce, cornstarch can be used for gluten-free option
6. Chicken broth
Amount: 360 ml (1½ cups)
Low-sodium recommended for better salt control
7. Half-and-half (or heavy cream)
Amount: 240 ml (1 cup)
Half-and-half for lighter sauce, cream for richer texture
8. Ham (diced)
Amount: 340 g (3 cups)
Leftover or deli ham both work well
9. Peas
Amount: 450 g (1 lb)
Fresh or frozen, frozen can be added directly
10. Parmesan cheese
Amount: 85 g (¾ cup), grated
Freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better
11. Salt & Pepper
Amount: To taste
Season at the end since broth and ham already contain salt
12. Optional extras
Parsley or thyme for garnish, red pepper flakes for heat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk and stir to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce from drying out. It’s best eaten fresh, as freezing can make the cream sauce separate or grainy.
Yes! Frozen peas are a convenient and tasty option. You can add them directly to the sauce without thawing. They will heat through as the pasta finishes cooking, staying bright green and sweet.
Absolutely. Any short pasta—like penne, fusilli, or bow-tie—will work. Adjust cooking time as needed; thicker noodles might need a minute or two more. All will soak up the creamy sauce nicely.
You can prep some steps in advance. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, gently warm the sauce and toss in the pasta and remaining ingredients. This keeps the noodles firm and the sauce fresh.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir well until heated through; this restores the creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
Tender pasta tossed with savory ham and sweet peas in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, this is a quick family favorite.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 7 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In a large pot or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the remaining butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the half-and-half (or cream) and bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the diced ham and peas. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the ham is heated through.
Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with the grated Parmesan. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Turn off the heat and let the pasta sit for a minute to thicken before serving.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Hi, I’m Anna — a wellness enthusiast, recipe creator, and founder of Cook Recipe. I love making healthy, easy, and feel-good meals that inspire others to live happier, more balanced lives. When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me exploring new places or flowing through a yoga session! 🌿
