A delightful pasta dish combining creamy sauce, savory ham, and vibrant vegetables for a comforting meal.
Boil water in a large pot and cook the penne until al dente.
Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the peas to the boiling pasta water during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
This ensures the peas remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and peas.
The reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency.
In a skillet, cook the ham over medium heat until crispy, then set aside.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleanup.
Melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Keep the heat low to prevent burning the garlic.
Whisk the flour into the milk until smooth, then add to the saucepan.
Ensure no lumps remain for a smooth sauce.
Add the cream cheese and parmesan to the sauce, whisking until melted and combined.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the pasta, peas, and ham in a serving dish, then pour the sauce over and mix well.
Add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and freshly ground pepper.
Pair with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.