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This Creamy Spinach and Ham Pasta Skillet is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of fresh spinach and savory ham, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also satisfies the cravings for comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. In this article, we will explore the preparation of this delicious pasta dish, along with insights into its nutritional benefits, variations, and tips for perfecting the recipe.

Creamy Spinach and Ham Pasta Skillet

Discover a deliciously simple recipe for Creamy Spinach and Ham Pasta Skillet, perfect for any night of the week. This one-pan meal combines tender pasta with fresh spinach, savory ham, and a rich creamy sauce, making it both satisfying and quick to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a step-by-step guide, you'll impress your family and friends in no time. Explore variations, nutritional benefits, and tips for perfecting this comforting dish today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli recommended)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cooked ham, diced

4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for serving

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, season with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve ½ cup of the cooking water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and softened. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, until the garlic is fragrant.

      Add the Ham and Spinach: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the diced ham to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly. Next, add the fresh spinach (or the thawed frozen spinach) and stir until it's wilted and reduced in volume, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

        Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, mixing well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce until completely creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy ham and spinach sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the rich sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to enhance the flavor.

            Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately, offering extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who like a cheesy finish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 30 min | Serves 4