Creamy Leek Pea Ham Pasta (Printable Version)

Delicious creamy pasta with leeks, peas, ham, and a savory sauce ready in 30 minutes.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
02 - 1 cup frozen peas

→ Pasta

03 - 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or similar)

→ Meats

04 - 7 oz cooked ham, diced

→ Dairy

05 - 1 cup heavy cream
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Liquids

08 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

→ Seasonings

09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Melt butter in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add diced ham and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Pour in pasta, broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
05 - Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta reaches almost al dente texture.
06 - Add peas and continue cooking uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
07 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg if using. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce coats pasta.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep work
  • One-pot cooking means easy cleanup
  • Creamy, comforting sauce that coats every bite of pasta
  • Perfect balance of vegetables, protein, and carbs
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Great for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining
02 -
  • Don't skip cleaning the leeks thoroughly—they often contain hidden dirt between layers
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest sauce
  • Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking
  • Add the cream over low heat to avoid curdling
  • Taste and adjust seasoning at the end—you may need more salt depending on your broth and ham
  • For extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg to complement the cream and Parmesan
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