Ham and Pasta Creole

Dive into the bold and vibrant flavors of the South with this Ham and Pasta Creole recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a comfort meal with a Louisiana twist, this dish features tender pasta tossed in a spiced tomato-based sauce infused with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and just the right kick of heat from red pepper flakes. The savory richness of diced ham pairs beautifully with sweet sautéed onions, green bell peppers, and fragrant garlic, creating a medley of flavors your taste buds will adore. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy-to-make, one-skillet dinner is topped with fresh green onions and optional parsley for a pop of freshness. Serve it hot for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress! Keywords: Ham and Pasta Creole recipe, Creole pasta dinner, easy weeknight meal, Louisiana-inspired dish, spiced tomato sauce.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14 oz crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 2 stalks green onions, sliced
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Remove the ham from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Add the cooked ham back to the skillet and season with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly with the sauce.

Step 10

Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley.

Step 11

Serve hot and enjoy your Ham and Pasta Creole!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1789.6 grams (1789.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1745

Total Fat 60.40g	77%
Saturated Fat 15.20g	76%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 275mg	92%
Sodium 9938mg	432%
Total Carbohydrate 163.40g	59%
Dietary Fiber 20.60g	74%
Total Sugars 35.30g
Protein 137.10g	274%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 229mg	18%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 3017mg	64%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.1%

Protein: 31.4%

Carbs: 37.4%