# What You’ll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 oz penne pasta
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
→ Meats
05 - 1 cup cooked ham, diced
→ Dairy
06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
08 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasonings
09 - ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
10 - ¼ tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
11 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté 1 more minute.
03 - Stir in diced ham and cook 2–3 minutes until lightly browned and warmed through.
04 - Add peas and cook 2 minutes until bright green or heated through if frozen.
05 - Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
06 - Add drained penne to skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust thickness by adding reserved pasta water as needed.
07 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
