Macaroni With Ham & Asparagus

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Creamy Italian-style pasta with tender ham and fresh asparagus tips
Macaroni With Ham & Asparagus recipe image

This creamy macaroni dish combines tender ham and fresh asparagus tips in a rich, velvety sauce. The mild sweetness of the asparagus pairs perfectly with the salty depth of the ham, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe brings home-style Italian flavors to your table. The key is to keep the heat low when adding the cream to prevent separation, ensuring a smooth, luxurious texture. Serve immediately with extra Parmigiana cheese on the side for a touch of sharpness that cuts through the richness. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that feels special without requiring hours of prep.

Macaroni With Ham & Asparagus

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 24.0

Description

This creamy macaroni dish combines tender ham and fresh asparagus tips in a rich, velvety sauce. The mild sweetness of the asparagus pairs perfectly with the salty depth of the ham, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe brings home-style Italian flavors to your table. The key is to keep the heat low when adding the cream to prevent separation, ensuring a smooth, luxurious texture. Serve immediately with extra Parmigiana cheese on the side for a touch of sharpness that cuts through the richness. It&# 226;ÂÂs a simple yet elegant dish that feels special without requiring hours of prep.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until pale and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add diced ham and steamed asparagus pieces to the skillet.
  4. Sauté the mixture for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  5. Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream.
  6. Let the cream warm through for 30 seconds without boiling, then immediately remove the pan from heat.
  7. Pour the cream sauce over the hot cooked macaroni.
  8. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmigiana cheese on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 24.0kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2.4mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 4.7g2%
Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
Sugars 2.3g
Protein 2.6g6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Do not let the heavy cream boil or it may separate. Keep the heat low when adding it.

If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the texture will be less rich.

Ensure asparagus is fresh and steamed just until tender-crisp to maintain texture.

This dish is best served immediately while the pasta is hot.

Keywords: asparagus, ham, macaroni, pasta, cream, italian, dinner, weeknight, savory, cheesy, parmesan, butter, onion, saute, quick, easy, comfort food, spring, vegetable
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