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Creamy ham and penne pasta with peas in a skillet on the stovetop, with a wooden spoon resting in the dish.
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Skillet Ham and Penne

Creamy Skillet Ham and Penne is a quick and comforting one-pan dinner made with tender penne pasta, savory ham, sweet peas, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, allowing the pasta to absorb all the flavor while the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and satisfying. It’s an easy weeknight meal that’s perfect for using leftover ham and comes together in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups cooked ham cubed
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups 2% milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups frozen peas
  • 1/2 tsp parsley
  • 1/2 tsp basil
  • 1/4 tsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • 1 Large, deep skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Add ham and cook briefly until warmed.
  4. Stir in flour until everything is coated.
  5. Slowly add chicken broth and milk, stirring until smooth.
  6. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Add penne pasta and stir well.
  8. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
  9. Stir in peas, Parmesan, and seasonings.
  10. Simmer until peas are heated through and sauce is creamy.
  11. Remove from heat and let rest before serving.

Notes

Add extra broth or milk if sauce thickens too much.
Stir frequently while pasta cooks.
Fresh Parmesan gives best texture and flavor.
Storage:
Refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.