Italian Spaghetti with Ham
Indulge in the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine with this rich and creamy Italian Spaghetti with Ham. Featuring tender spaghetti coated in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, this dish is elevated by savory bites of golden ham and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A hint of black pepper and optional red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, while chopped parsley offers a pop of freshness. Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet elegant dinner. Serve this satisfying pasta dish with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad for the ultimate Italian dinner experience.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 200 g ham (thinly sliced or diced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 50 g Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 liters water (for boiling)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
While the spaghetti cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the ham and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to turn slightly golden.
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce with black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Drain the cooked spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the dish, along with fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine.
Serve the spaghetti warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2028 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 119.7 g | 153% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.7 g | 284% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 329 mg | 110% | |
| Sodium | 5804 mg | 252% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 133.3 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.0 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.4 g | ||
| Protein | 78.9 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 649 mg | 50% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 888 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
