Creamy ham and cheese pasta is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table fast. With tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce and savory chicken ham, this creamy ham and cheese pasta delivers comfort in every bite. The smooth blend of cheddar and Parmesan creates a silky sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and tastes like pure comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta
A Quick Comfort Classic
This recipe combines:
- Tender pasta
- Creamy homemade cheese sauce
- Savory chicken ham
- Garlic and onion flavor
- Rich cheddar and Parmesan
It feels indulgent but uses simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
- Ready in 30 minutes
- One-pan sauce
- Kid-friendly
- Budget-friendly
- Great for leftovers
This creamy ham and cheese pasta reheats beautifully the next day.
Ingredients for Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or similar)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups diced chicken ham
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Why These Ingredients Work
Cheddar provides creaminess and sharp flavor.
Parmesan adds salty depth and thickens the sauce.
Flour creates a smooth roux base.
Warmed milk prevents lumps.
Chicken ham adds savory balance.
How to Make Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water.
Cook pasta until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat oil or butter in skillet.
Cook onion 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add diced chicken ham and cook 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over mixture.
Stir 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in warmed milk.
Cook 4–6 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Reduce heat.
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Combine
Add pasta to sauce.
Toss to coat.
Add reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve hot and garnish with parsley.
Serving, Storage & Variations
What to Serve With Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta
- Garlic bread
- Steamed broccoli
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Variations
- Add peas for color and sweetness
- Use mozzarella for extra melt
- Add spinach for a creamy florentine twist
- Swap chicken ham for turkey ham
Storage
Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheat gently with splash of milk.
Freeze up to 2 months (texture slightly softer).
Frequently asked question
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes. Penne, fusilli, shells, or rotini work great.
Can I make it lighter?
Use 2% milk and reduce cheese slightly.
How do I prevent grainy cheese sauce?
Lower heat before adding cheese and stir gently.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat with extra milk to loosen the sauce.
NUTRITION (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 55–60g
Fat: 22–25g
Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Ham and Cheese Pasta is a rich 30-minute comfort dinner made with cheddar, Parmesan and savory chicken ham.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1 1/2 cups chicken ham
2 tbsp flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Instructions
1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Saute onion and garlic.
3. Add chicken ham.
4. Stir in flour.
5. Whisk in milk and thicken.
6. Add cheese.
7. Combine with pasta.