Creamy Leek Pea Ham Pasta

There's something deeply satisfying about a one-pot pasta dish that brings together creamy indulgence and wholesome ingredients in under 30 minutes. This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta is the kind of meal that transforms simple pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy dinner. Sweet, tender leeks melt into a velvety sauce, while bright green peas add pops of color and freshness. Savory diced ham brings a satisfying heartiness, and the Parmesan-enriched cream ties everything together in perfect harmony. It's comfort food at its finest—quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

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This European-inspired dish celebrates the mild, sweet flavor of leeks—a vegetable that's often overlooked but incredibly versatile. When sautéed in butter until soft and golden, leeks develop a subtle sweetness that forms the aromatic foundation of this pasta. The frozen peas add a touch of spring freshness, while the cooked ham provides a savory, smoky note that elevates the entire dish. Cooking the pasta directly in the broth not only saves time but also allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors as it simmers to tender perfection.

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)

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Leeks

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: Add Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Ham

Add the diced ham and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Pour in the pasta, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook Covered

Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is almost al dente.

Step 6: Add Peas

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: Make It Creamy

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: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Cleaning leeks properly is essential, as dirt and sand can hide between the layers. Slice them lengthwise, fan out the layers under cold running water, then slice crosswise. Use only the white and light green parts for the best flavor and texture. When cooking the pasta in broth, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the mixture seems too dry before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water. The key to a perfectly creamy sauce is adding the cream at the end over low heat—high heat can cause it to separate or become grainy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Substitute smoked turkey or cooked chicken for the ham to make it pork-free, or use plant-based cream and skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. For a lighter dish, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich. Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula at the end for extra greens and a peppery bite. If you prefer gluten-free, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and adjust the cooking time as needed. For a touch of brightness, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this creamy pasta hot, straight from the skillet, with a generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

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This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta proves that weeknight dinners don't have to be complicated to be absolutely delicious. With its silky sauce, tender vegetables, and satisfying bites of ham, it's a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this one-pot wonder delivers comfort, flavor, and ease in equal measure. Give it a try tonight, and discover why simple, well-executed recipes are often the most memorable.

Keeps paper towels accessible for wiping spills, drying hands, and cleaning surfaces while cooking.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?

Yes, smoked turkey or cooked chicken can be substituted to reduce pork content without sacrificing flavor.

→ What pasta types work best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

→ How can I lighten the creamy sauce?

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter but still creamy finish.

→ When should I add the peas during cooking?

Add frozen peas after the pasta is mostly cooked to retain their texture and vibrant color.

→ What are good garnishes for this pasta?

Extra grated Parmesan or fresh cracked black pepper enhance the dish’s savory flavors.