Spaghetti with ham and cream sauce
Ham and cream sauce spaghetti - a quick, delicious recipe perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This simple recipe is ideal for times when you're short on time but have a big appetite. Additionally, it's an excellent choice when you want to cook something tasty for kids or for a family dinner.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 300 g spaghetti
- 200 g ham (preferably quality ham)
- 100 g cheese (or mozzarella, depending on preference)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 50 ml milk
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- oregano, to taste
- fresh or dried basil, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Boiling the spaghetti:
In a large pot, add water and a little salt, then bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Cooling the spaghetti:
Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and rinse them quickly under cold running water. This step will stop the cooking process and help maintain a pleasant texture. Allow them to drain well in a colander.
3. Preparing the ingredients:
Cut the ham into small cubes for even browning. Also, grate the cheese, which will add delicious flavor to the sauce. If you choose mozzarella, make sure to cut it into cubes or crumble it.
4. Preparing the sauce:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the ham cubes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly crispy. This will enhance the flavor and add a pleasant texture to the sauce.
5. Combining the ingredients:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with the sour cream and milk. Add the mixture to the skillet over the ham and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.
6. Adding the cheese:
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the grated cheese or mozzarella cubes. Stir well until the cheese begins to melt and integrate into the sauce.
7. Finalizing the dish:
Finally, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Gently mix everything to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy, delicious sauce. Let them heat on the stove for another minute, then you can serve.
Serving suggestions:
These ham and cream sauce spaghetti are delicious served warm, but you can also add some fresh basil or parsley leaves for a touch of freshness. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top will add extra flavor.
Variations and tips:
- Instead of ham, you can use bacon or even cooked chicken to change the flavor profile of the dish.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to make the recipe healthier and more colorful.
- If you like spicy flavors, a pinch of chili powder or a few drops of Tabasco sauce can turn this dish into a truly special experience.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option and pairs perfectly with this creamy sauce.
2. What other sauces can I try with spaghetti?
You can try a tomato sauce or a pesto sauce, which go very well with pasta and are easy to prepare.
3. How can I make the recipe easier?
Use pre-prepared ingredients, such as ham or cheese, from the supermarket to reduce cooking time.
Nutritional benefits:
This dish is a good source of protein due to the ham and egg, while milk and sour cream provide essential calcium. The spaghetti offers complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy. Depending on the type of cheese chosen, you can also obtain healthy fats that contribute to a balanced diet.
Enjoy this ham and cream sauce spaghetti recipe, which will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring a touch of joy to every meal! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 300 g spaghetti, 200 g ham, 100 g cheese, 1 egg, 3 tablespoons sour cream, 50 ml milk, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, 1 tablespoon olive oil
