Save This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta is a comforting one-pot dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. It features tender short pasta, sweet sautéed leeks, and savory diced ham, all enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce that feels gourmet yet requires minimal effort.
Pin it With only 10 minutes of preparation time and 20 minutes of cooking, this European-inspired dish is as efficient as it is delicious. By simmering the pasta directly in the broth, every noodle absorbs maximum flavor, resulting in a cohesive and deeply savory meal that yields four generous servings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (penne, fusilli, or similar)
- 7 oz (200 g) cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- 3 cups (720 ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the diced ham and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4
- Pour in the pasta, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Step 5
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.
- Step 6
- Add the peas and continue to cook, uncovered, for 3–4 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 7
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg (if using). Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure you clean the leeks thoroughly after slicing, as dirt can often be trapped between the layers. Using a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven is crucial to provide enough room for the pasta to simmer evenly in the broth. For the best result, keep an eye on the liquid levels toward the end of cooking to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a pork-free version, substitute the diced ham with smoked turkey or cooked chicken. If you prefer a lighter sauce, half-and-half can be used in place of heavy cream. To add more nutrients, stir in a handful of baby spinach during the final two minutes of simmering until it just wilts.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this dish immediately while the Parmesan sauce is warm and creamy. A garnish of extra grated Parmesan and a touch of fresh black pepper will enhance the flavors. This meal pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine, such as a chilled Sauvignon Blanc.
Pin it This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta is a reliable favorite that brings gourmet flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. Whether it's a hectic Tuesday or a cozy Sunday, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures a satisfying and delicious dinner every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute the ham in this dish?
Yes, smoked turkey or cooked chicken can replace ham for a pork-free variant without altering the creamy texture.
- → What pasta types work best here?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or similar shapes hold the creamy sauce well and ensure even cooking in one pot.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining a creamy mouthfeel.
- → Are there any suggested additions to boost nutrition?
Adding a handful of baby spinach at the end provides extra greens and nutrients without changing the flavor much.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and balances the dish's richness.
