Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet
Try this Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet recipe, or contribute your own.
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 red pepper diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) chicken broth
- 1/2 to 1 box pasta-16 oz (i used cavatappi this time but
- 3 cups ham cooked and cubed
- 1 onion, medium size chopped
- 2 cloves garlic (i always add more)
- shredded parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese for top
- Carbohydrate 10.4142975034371 g
- Cholesterol 91.509375039243 mg
- Fat 48.7705237823077 g
- Fiber 4.63349986590073 g
- Protein 2.17165125090891 g
- Saturated Fat 23.8445550117956 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (190g)
- Sodium 251.35400010712 mg
- Sugar 5.78079763753637 g
- Trans Fat 3.09447775157161 g
- Calories 476 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large bowl on the stove, boil water and cook pasta according to the package directions.
- In a 10" skillet, add ham, red pepper, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, oil and butter.
- Stir and saute until vegetables are tender and onion is translucent. About 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in broth.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until liquid is reduced to half.
- Drain pasta when cooked.
- Add to ham mixture.
- Sprinkle with cheese before serving if desired.
Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet: A Weeknight Winner
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. This Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet recipe has become a staple in our household, a go-to meal when the evenings get hectic. It's adaptable, satisfying, and requires minimal cleanup – a trifecta for any busy woman juggling work, family, and everything in between. The best part? It’s surprisingly flavorful, far surpassing the simplicity of its preparation. The blend of savory ham, sweet red peppers, and aromatic herbs creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and exciting. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; this dish is ready in under 20 minutes, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones or simply unwind after a long day.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Don't have red pepper? Use bell peppers or even spinach. Out of oregano? A pinch of Italian seasoning works just as well. The key is to have a good base of ham, pasta, and flavorful broth, and let your creativity flow from there. I often add extra garlic, because let’s be honest, who doesn't love extra garlic? The pasta itself can be varied too – cavatappi works great because of its size and texture, but penne, rotini, or even fusilli would be equally delicious. Experiment with different cheeses for topping, too. Cheddar adds a sharpness, while parmesan provides a rich, salty finish. The possibilities are endless, making this skillet a truly versatile meal that caters to various tastes and dietary needs.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet is also incredibly budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like pasta, canned broth, and readily available vegetables, it’s a fantastic way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. It’s a perfect example of how a simple, everyday meal can be transformed into something truly special with just a few thoughtful ingredients and a bit of culinary flair. So, the next time you find yourself short on time but craving a satisfying and delicious dinner, remember this Quick Pasta and Ham Skillet. It's a testament to the fact that amazing meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming – sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most rewarding.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the ham with mushrooms or chickpeas for a meat-free option.
- Creamy upgrade: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Leftover magic: This dish makes great leftovers! Simply reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, we can still find time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious and satisfying food. Enjoy!
