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Let me share a recipe that's become my absolute go-to when I need something comforting and delicious Espagueti Blanco con Jamón. It's like a warm hug in pasta form combining tender spaghetti savory ham and the most luxurious creamy sauce. Every time I make this my kitchen fills with the most amazing aromas.
Why You'll Fall in Love
This isn't just any pasta dish it's pure comfort in every bite. That creamy sauce wrapping around each strand of spaghetti the perfectly salty bits of ham it all comes together in the most magical way. Best part? It's so simple to make you'll wonder why you haven't tried it sooner.
What You'll Need
- Spaghetti: 1 lb, cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- Cooked Ham: 1 ½ cups, diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Butter: 2 tbsp, for a rich base in the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: ¼ cup, for a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Milk: 1 cup, to balance the richness of the cream.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated, for a nutty and savory flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, to add aromatic depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: ¼ cup, optional, for added creaminess.
- Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Optional garnish for a fresh finish.
Let's Get Cooking
First things first get your pasta going in well-salted water. While that's happening we'll start on that incredible sauce. The key is taking your time letting those flavors build layer by layer. Trust me your patience will be rewarded.
My Secret Tips
Here's what I've learned through countless times making this dish: never overcook your pasta keep it al dente it'll continue cooking slightly in the sauce. And that ham? Get the good stuff it makes such a difference in the final flavor.
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Perfect Pairings
While this pasta is heavenly on its own I love serving it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread. Sometimes I'll add a side of Mexican-style beans for that authentic touch it just works so beautifully together.
Plan Ahead Magic
One of the best things about this dish is how well it keeps. Make it ahead store it properly and it's just as delicious the next day. Just add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how flexible it is. Sometimes I'll throw in some peas or broccoli other times I'll swap the ham for chicken. You can even play with different cheese combinations it's almost impossible to go wrong.
Family Favorite
Every time I serve this pasta the plates come back clean. There's something about that combination of creamy sauce tender pasta and savory ham that just makes everyone happy. It's comfort food at its finest.
Ready in a Flash
This is my go-to recipe when I need something delicious but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. In less than 30 minutes you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table.
Pure Comfort
What makes this dish so special is how it combines simple ingredients into something truly magical. The way the cream sauce coats each strand of pasta the bits of ham adding their salty goodness it's pure comfort in every bite.
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Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it's a quiet weeknight dinner or you're hosting friends this pasta fits right in. It's casual enough for everyday but special enough for company. Plus it's so easy to scale up for a crowd.
Fresh Meets Rich
The contrast between the rich creamy sauce and the fresh herbs on top makes every bite exciting. It's that perfect balance that keeps you coming back for more.
Mexican Twist
While this might seem like a typical creamy pasta it's got that special Mexican touch. Maybe it's the way we serve it maybe it's the combination of flavors but there's something uniquely comforting about it.
Tomorrow's Lunch
Leftovers of this pasta are a gift. Turn them into a baked dish with extra cheese on top or enjoy them as is. The flavors actually get better overnight as they meld together.
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Kid-Approved
I've yet to meet a child who doesn't love this pasta. The creamy sauce and tender noodles are always a hit and it's a great way to get them excited about dinner time.
Budget Friendly
Don't let the rich taste fool you this dish is actually quite economical to make. Most ingredients are pantry staples and a little goes a long way in terms of feeding a crowd.
A Story in Every Bowl
This recipe reminds me of how food brings people together. It's a blend of different culinary traditions coming together to create something new and wonderful.
Meal Prep Champion
When I need to plan ahead this pasta never lets me down. It reheats beautifully and having portions ready to go makes busy weeknights so much easier.
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Pure Joy
There's something special about watching people enjoy this pasta. Maybe it's the way the cheese pulls into long strands or how everyone goes quiet when they take that first bite. It's more than just dinner it's a moment of pure joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer. Fettuccine, penne, or rotini would work well with this creamy sauce.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
- While heavy cream gives the best rich texture, you could use half-and-half. The sauce might be slightly thinner but still delicious.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, peas, mushrooms, or asparagus would be great additions. Add them when cooking the ham for a more complete meal.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- The sauce can get thick when cooled. If making ahead, reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.
- → What type of ham works best?
- Any good quality cooked ham works well. You can use leftover baked ham or purchased diced ham from the deli counter.