Go Back

Creamy Bow Tie Pasta with Ham

This is all stuff I typically have on hand after the holidays – leftover ham, some pasta, and heavy cream. The longest part is just waiting for the water to boil.
Print Pin
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

Ingredients (~6 servings)

  • 1 lb bow tie pasta
  • 3 Tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup spring onion thinly sliced
  • 1 Tbsp garlic minced
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1 cup ham cut into 1/4 inch strips
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 Tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Instructions

  • Boil salted water and cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Reserve 3/4 cup pasta water before draining.
  • Toss drained pasta with 2 Tbsp reserved water and set aside.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  • Add spring onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle flour over onions and garlic, whisking constantly for 1 minute.
  • Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
  • Whisk in mascarpone, Parmesan, and ground mustard until smooth.
  • Add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.
  • Stir in ham and peas and heat through for 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, 2 Tbsp parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour sauce over pasta and toss until well coated.
  • Add more reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings.
  • Garnish with remaining parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment below & let me know!