Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as comforting as a warm hug? Look no further than our Creamy Noodles with Ham! This quick and delicious recipe combines tender egg noodles with savory ham, sweet peas, and a luscious creamy sauce that will have your family begging for seconds. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. Dive into this culinary delight and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 6-8 minutes, until they are al dente and tender.
- While noodles are cooking, dice the cooked ham into small, uniform cubes.
- In a large skillet, heat the heavy cream over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add frozen peas to the cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and tender.
- Drain the cooked noodles in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Add the drained noodles to the skillet with cream and peas, gently tossing to coat evenly.
- Fold in the diced ham and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to warm the ham.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and stir to incorporate, creating a creamy sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking the egg noodles to achieve that perfect al dente texture. This will help them hold up in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
- Ham Options: If you're looking for a twist, try using leftover holiday ham or even a smoked ham for a deeper flavor. You can also substitute diced chicken or turkey if you prefer.
- Creamy Consistency: If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help loosen the sauce while adding a bit of starch for creaminess.
- Seasoning is Key: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with additional grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 391kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 103mg
