Ham pudding

Pasta Pudding with Ham - A Cozy Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
Pasta pudding with ham is a classic, comforting recipe that combines the rich flavors of cheese, cream, and ham with the soft, fluffy texture of pasta. This versatile and easy-to-make recipe is perfect for enjoying with family or friends. It not only offers a delicious taste but also a hearty dish packed with nutrients, ideal for weekend meals or a quick dinner during the week. So, let’s get started and transform these simple ingredients into a tasty pudding!

Ingredients needed
- 250 g wide noodles (or fettuccine)
- 250 g cooked ham, sliced
- 3 large eggs
- 50 g butter, plus extra for greasing
- 80 g grated cheese (Parmesan or any preferred cheese)
- 150 ml cooking cream
- 2 green onions, washed and sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
- Salt, ground pepper to taste
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

Preparation
1. Boiling the pasta
Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them until al dente, so they don’t become too soft during baking. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the pasta's texture.

2. Preparing the egg mixture
In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with an electric mixer, adding the melted butter, grated cheese, and cream. Mix well until you achieve a smooth composition. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor.

3. Adding the ingredients
Wash the green onions, slice them, and add half of them to the yolk mixture. Also, add the minced garlic, mixing well. Then, add the boiled pasta and sliced ham, gently stirring to combine all ingredients.

4. Preparing the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, leveling it with a spatula.

5. Preparing the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy, but not necessarily stiff. Add the remaining green onions and gently mix. This will give the pudding an airy texture.

6. Baking
Spread the egg white mixture over the pasta and ham composition. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden and browned. The smell will be absolutely irresistible!

Serving and suggestions
Pasta pudding with ham is delicious served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it ideal for lunches or picnics. You can add a fresh salad on the side, dressed with a lemon dressing, to contrast with the rich texture of the pudding. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a craft beer can pair perfectly with this dish.

Variations and tips
- You can add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to enrich the recipe.
- Instead of ham, you can use crispy bacon or even roasted chicken for a different flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to achieve a personalized taste.

Nutritional values
This pudding provides a good source of protein from the eggs and ham, while the pasta contributes healthy carbohydrates. One serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the chosen ingredients. It is also a nourishing option, being rich in calcium due to the cheese and cream.

Frequently asked questions
- *Can I use whole grain pasta?*
Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for adding extra fiber and nutrients.

- *Is this recipe suitable for vegans?*
Although the recipe contains animal-derived ingredients, a vegan version can be created using egg-free pasta, cheese substitutes, and plant-based cream.

- *What can I do with the leftovers?*
The pudding keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and a portion can be easily reheated.

In conclusion, pasta pudding with ham is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for impressing your family and friends. Besides being easy to prepare, it offers unlimited customization possibilities. So, dare to experiment and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 250 g wide noodles, 250 g boiled ham, 3 eggs, 50 g butter, 80 g grated cheese, 150 ml sour cream, 2 green onion stalks, 2 garlic cloves, salt, ground pepper, nutmeg

 Tags:  pudding ham noodles sour cream eggs