When you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s quick and easy to make, Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the soft, spiraled texture of campanelle pasta with savory ham and earthy mushrooms, all coated in a luscious, creamy sauce. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious, satisfying meal in just a few simple steps!
Ingredients for Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms
Before you start, gather the ingredients needed for Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms. Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:
- Creamy Campanelle Pasta: 12 oz (Campanelle has a unique, fluted shape that holds the creamy sauce perfectly.)
- Ham: 1 cup, diced (You can use cooked ham or even prosciutto for a slightly different flavor.)
- Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced (Cremini or white mushrooms work well, but you can also try shiitake or portobello for a richer flavor.)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (For that rich, creamy texture.)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated (Freshly grated cheese melts better into the sauce.)
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley: A few sprigs for garnish (Optional but adds a burst of color and freshness.)
- Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tbsp (For sautéing.)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Once you have everything, you’re ready to make your Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms!
How to Make Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms
Making Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms is a breeze! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring this delicious dish to life:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the Creamy Campanelle and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but be sure to save about a cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Ham and Mushrooms
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced ham and cook until it’s slightly crispy, about 4 minutes. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned. The combination of ham and mushrooms creates a savory base that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. As the cream heats up, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt and create a silky sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, add the drained Creamy Campanelle to the skillet. Toss the pasta with the creamy sauce until it’s fully coated. If you like a thinner sauce, you can add a little more pasta water. Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Final Touches
To finish off your dish, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms while it’s hot, and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors!
Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms
Here are a few expert tips to make your Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother sauce. Using fresh thyme or parsley as a garnish adds a nice burst of flavor and color.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply cook it a little longer until it reduces. For a lighter version, add less cream and substitute with milk or a low-fat cream option.
- Experiment with Different Hams: While this recipe calls for cooked ham, you can try prosciutto, pancetta, or even bacon for a smokier flavor.
- Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian option, skip the ham and add extra mushrooms or veggies like spinach, peas, or zucchini to add variety and flavor.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms
Here’s why Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms is a dish you’ll want to make again and again:
- It’s Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy sauce, savory ham, and tender mushrooms combine to make the perfect comforting meal, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is simple to whip up even on your busiest days. It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Impressive Yet Simple: Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish looks elegant and tastes gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Creamy Campanelle with Ham and Mushrooms is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, creamy sauce and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion.
Now it’s your turn! Ready to make this delicious pasta dish tonight? Try it out, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below. If you customize the recipe or have any creative ideas, we’d love to hear about it!
Call to Action: Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out our other quick, comforting pasta recipes, and make dinner a breeze! Happy cooking!