Creamy Leek Pea Ham Pasta

There's something deeply comforting about a one-pot pasta dish that brings together the sweet, delicate flavor of leeks, the pop of bright green peas, and the savory richness of ham—all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta is the kind of meal that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something truly special. It's a dish that whispers of European home cooking, where quality ingredients and straightforward techniques create magic in under 30 minutes. Whether you're rushing home on a busy weeknight or looking for a satisfying dinner that doesn't demand hours in the kitchen, this pasta delivers warmth, flavor, and pure satisfaction in every forkful.

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The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays its part. Leeks, often overlooked in favor of their sharper onion cousins, bring a subtle sweetness and silky texture when gently sautéed in butter. The ham adds a savory, smoky depth, while frozen peas—a true weeknight hero—provide bursts of sweetness and vibrant color. The pasta cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all those wonderful flavors, before being finished with heavy cream and Parmesan for a sauce that's both rich and refined. A whisper of nutmeg elevates the entire dish, adding a warm, aromatic note that ties everything together beautifully.

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)

Instructions

Step 1

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

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

Step 3

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

Step 4

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

Step 5

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

Step 6

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

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

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When preparing the leeks, make sure to clean them thoroughly as dirt often hides between the layers. Slice them lengthwise and rinse well under cold water. Use only the white and light green parts for the most tender, sweet flavor. If your pasta seems to be absorbing liquid too quickly, add a splash more broth to prevent sticking. Conversely, if there's too much liquid remaining after the pasta is cooked, simply increase the heat slightly and let it reduce before adding the cream. The key to a perfectly creamy sauce is adding the cream at the end and keeping the heat low—high heat can cause the cream to separate. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the Parmesan melts evenly and creates a silky coating on every piece of pasta.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and welcomes creative adaptations. For a pork-free version, substitute the ham with smoked turkey or diced cooked chicken, which will still provide that savory protein element. If you're looking to lighten the dish, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For added nutrition and color, stir in a handful of baby spinach during the last minute of cooking—it will wilt beautifully into the creamy sauce. Vegetarians can omit the ham entirely and add sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. For a gluten-free option, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free. The nutmeg is optional but highly recommended—it adds a subtle warmth that elevates the entire dish without overwhelming the other flavors.

Serviervorschläge

This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple accompaniments. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cream sauce. A basket of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left in the bowl. For wine pairing, reach for a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio—their acidity and brightness complement the creamy, savory flavors perfectly. If you're entertaining, garnish each serving with extra grated Parmesan, a crack of fresh black pepper, and a small sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

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This Creamy Leek, Pea, and Ham Pasta proves that weeknight cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be absolutely delicious. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements, it's a dish that feels indulgent while remaining accessible and quick to prepare. The one-pot method means you can have dinner on the table in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy the meal with loved ones. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this pasta delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction every single time. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure, creamy comfort.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I use smoked turkey instead of ham?

Yes, smoked turkey or cooked chicken work well as alternatives to ham for a different flavor and to avoid pork.

→ What pasta types work best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or similar varieties hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in the pot.

→ How can I make the dish lighter?

Replace heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce richness while maintaining a creamy texture.

→ Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Yes, baby spinach or other greens can be added at the end for extra color and nutrients without altering cooking times significantly.

→ How do I know when pasta is perfectly cooked?

Cook pasta uncovered until tender but still firm (al dente), usually about 10-14 minutes depending on pasta type, then finish cooking with peas and sauce.