Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta recipe—a comforting, yet lightened-up twist on a classic favorite! Featuring tender penne pasta tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made with reduced-fat cream cheese, milk, and tangy ranch seasoning, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and better-for-you ingredients. Studded with savory diced ham, vibrant green peas, and a blend of melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish, this six-serving meal is ideal for busy weeknights or when you're craving a hearty, family-friendly pasta dish. Serve it fresh from the skillet, and don’t forget the extra sprinkle of Parmesan for an added touch of decadence!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1.5 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine.
Add the diced ham and thawed peas to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is heated through and the peas are tender.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
280 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.8 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7 g | 43% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 41 mg | 14% | |
| Sodium | 508 mg | 22% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.1 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.7 g | ||
| Protein | 13.2 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 269 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 141 mg | 3% | |
*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.
