Ham and Broccoli Pasta

This ham and broccoli pasta is a fast, reliable weeknight recipe. The family-friendly, one-pot meal has clever ingredient shortcuts for layers of flavor and minimal prep. Tangy chive and onion cream cheese melts into a silky sauce accented by smoky cubes of ham. Tossed with tender bow tie pasta and frozen broccoli cooked right in the pasta water, it clings to every curve and edge, so it’s salty, savory and creamy in every bite.

This is the kind of dinner that doesn’t need fussing. The whole thing comes together in 30 minutes, but it tastes like more effort. Add a crisp green salad for a complete meal, and call it a night.

Ham and Broccoli Pasta Ingredients

• Bow tie pasta
• Frozen broccoli florets
• Fully cooked ham
• Spreadable chive and onion cream cheese
• Milk
• Salt
• Pepper

Directions

Step 1: Cook the pasta and broccoli

In a Dutch oven, cook the pasta according to package directions, adding the broccoli during the last five minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta mixture and set aside.

Step 2: Make the sauce

In the same pan, combine the ham, cream cheese, milk, salt and pepper. Cook and stir over medium heat until heated through, and the cream cheese is melted.

Step 3: Toss it all together

Return the pasta mixture to the pan and toss to combine.

How to Store Ham and Broccoli Pasta

Store any leftover ham and broccoli pasta in a food storage container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spoon a portion into a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Warm over medium heat on the stove or in 30-second intervals in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Ham and Broccoli Pasta Tips

Can you use fresh broccoli in ham and broccoli pasta instead of frozen?

You can easily use fresh broccoli in ham and broccoli pasta. Cut the broccoli into bite-size florets and add it to the pasta water just like you would with frozen. Depending on the size of the florets, they may only need to cook for three to four minutes to become bright and tender.

Can you add cheddar cheese to ham and broccoli pasta?

You can absolutely add shredded cheddar cheese to ham and broccoli pasta to give it a sharp edge and broccoli cheddar soup vibes. Once the cream cheese has melted, reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the sauce from boiling, and stir in up to 1 cup of shredded cheddar until smooth. Toss in the pasta and broccoli, and serve with an extra sprinkle of cheddar.

Can you swap in a different pasta shape for ham and broccoli pasta?

Any short pasta shape, such as rotini, penne or gemelli, works just as well as bow tie pasta in this ham and broccoli pasta recipe. Use the same amount, preferably by weight, since various shapes fill measuring cups differently, so the proportions stay balanced. Adjust the cooking time according to the package directions on your chosen pasta.

What side dishes go well with ham and broccoli pasta?

Ham and broccoli pasta is a well-balanced meal on its own, so you don’t need many side dishes. Toasty garlic bread, a peppery arugula salad or herbed roasted carrots add color or texture, and are simple to prepare.