Name: Creamy Prosciutto Pasta Ready in 20 Minutes of Pure Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Pasta (Use your favorite pasta shape); 4 oz Prosciutto (Thinly sliced, preferably Prosciutto di Parma); 1 cup Cream (Heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, for maximum flavor); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (For sautéing); 1 tbsp Butter (Adds richness to the sauce); 1 cup Tomato (Fresh or canned); 1 cup Peas (Fresh or frozen); 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (Or fresh basil/oregano as substitutes)

As I stirred the pot, the creamy aroma enveloped my kitchen, bringing a wave of comfort and nostalgia that only homemade meals can inspire. This Quick & Creamy Prosciutto Pasta is a delightful fusion of savory prosciutto and luscious cream, perfect for those evenings when time is short but you crave something special. In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a satisfying dish that feels just like dining at your favorite Italian restaurant—a true weeknight hero! Not only is it vibrantly colorful, thanks to fresh peas and ripe tomatoes, but it also packs a punch with its rich flavors, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. Ready to serve up some culinary magic? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and elevate your dinner routine!

Why is Prosciutto Pasta a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This pasta dish comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Goodness: The rich cream sauce beautifully coats every strand of pasta, making each bite a luscious delight.
Flavor Explosion: With the savory pop of prosciutto and fresh tomatoes, your taste buds will dance with joy.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or pasta shapes, letting you customize to your liking.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Pair it simply with a light salad, perhaps an easy Fall Harvest Pasta, for a complete meal experience.

Prosciutto Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta

Pasta – Use your favorite pasta shape, but cooking it to al dente ensures the perfect bite.

For the Sauce

Prosciutto – Opt for thinly sliced Prosciutto di Parma for a rich, savory flavor; it’s the star of this Prosciutto Pasta!
Cream – Heavy cream creates that luxurious sauce; if you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half works too.
Garlic – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; it’s best used in its raw form for maximum flavors.
Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the prosciutto and garlic, helping to build the foundations of your sauce.
Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; for those watching calories, feel free to reduce the amount.

For the Freshness

Tomato – Fresh or canned tomatoes brighten the dish with acidity and sweetness; they’re an essential addition!
Peas – Whether fresh or frozen, they add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your pasta.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of dried herbs enhances flavor; if you have fresh basil or oregano, these make lovely substitutes.

You’re all set to create a truly unforgettable meal that family and friends will cherish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick & Creamy Prosciutto Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your favorite pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, reserve a cup of the pasta water for later, then drain the pasta in a colander.

Step 2: Cook the Prosciutto
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and started to foam, add the prosciutto in batches. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Use tongs to transfer the prosciutto to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, keeping it crunchy for your Prosciutto Pasta.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and carefully add another teaspoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning. The aromatic scent filling your kitchen will signal it’s time for the next step in your delicious Prosciutto Pasta.

Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add diced tomatoes, frozen peas, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning into the skillet. Cook everything together for about 4-5 minutes, gently simmering and stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. The creamy goodness will start to envelop the ingredients, setting the base for your delightful pasta dish.

Step 5: Combine the Prosciutto
Crumble the crispy prosciutto into the sauce while saving some for topping. Mix well to integrate the flavors. Let the sauce simmer for an additional minute, allowing the prosciutto to warm through. The crispy texture combined with the creamy sauce will make this Prosciutto Pasta an unforgettable meal!

Step 6: Toss the Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with your rich sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring each strand is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. This step brings the whole dish together, making sure that every bite is deliciously creamy.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate the creamy Prosciutto Pasta into serving bowls and top with the reserved crispy prosciutto. For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. The contrasting textures and flavors will make this dish a hit at your dinner table, ready to impress your family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Prosciutto Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken, but you can restore its consistency by stirring in a little additional cream when reheating.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your Prosciutto Pasta, do so without the cream sauce. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. After thawing, prepare a fresh sauce when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips: If preparing ahead, keep the sauce separate from the pasta until ready to serve. This prevents the noodles from becoming soggy and maintains the dish’s fresh appeal.

Prosciutto Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Prosciutto Pasta to suit your taste and pantry staples!

Veggie Boost: Swap frozen peas for fresh spinach, adding a vibrant green touch and extra nutrients.
Pasta Shapes: Use different pasta varieties like fusilli or rigatoni for a new texture that holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream for a twist on flavor and creamy richness.
Herb Explosion: Swap out Italian seasoning for fresh basil or parsley; the aroma will take your dish to an aromatic level.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat; just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile and wake up your taste buds!
Cheesy Delight: Mix in some ricotta or goat cheese for added creaminess and tang; these cheeses blend exquisitely with the sauce.
Protein Swap: Try adding cooked shrimp or chicken instead of prosciutto for a protein-packed alternative that still feels luxurious.
Tomato Alternatives: Use sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, richer flavor twist; they’ll add a unique complexity to your creamy sauce.

Feel free to explore these variations to make your Prosciutto Pasta a unique creation every time! For more inspiration, check out our Fall Harvest Pasta or indulge in a comforting Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for a delicious change of pace.

Expert Tips for Prosciutto Pasta

Crisp Prosciutto: Cook the prosciutto until crispy, then reserve some for topping. This keeps it crunchy in your Prosciutto Pasta, adding texture.
Control Cream: Keep the cream sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent separating. Stir frequently to maintain that luscious consistency.
Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce thickness, so don’t skip this step!
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and quality prosciutto for maximum flavor impact. Substituting with fresh herbs also elevates your dish.
Veggie Swaps: Feel free to switch peas for seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini; this keeps your Prosciutto Pasta vibrant and adds nutrition.

Make Ahead Options

These Quick & Creamy Prosciutto Pasta preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time while still enjoying a delicious meal! You can cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance; simply toss it with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also prepare the creamy sauce (without the prosciutto) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce over low heat and stir in the crispy prosciutto, then combine it with your pasta. This way, you’ll have an effortlessly scrumptious dinner on the table in no time!

What to Serve with Quick & Creamy Prosciutto Pasta?

Creating a well-rounded meal is simple when you have this delectable pasta dish at the center of your table.

Arugula Salad: This zesty salad dressed with lemon and olive oil adds a refreshing crunch, beautifully balancing the richness of the creamy pasta.
A peppery arugula salad not only wakes up your palate but also adds healthful greens to your dinner.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is a classic companion that soaks up the delicious sauce, inviting every drop to be savored.
Its warm, toasted flavor complements the pasta so well, making it a cozy, comforting choice!
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus, roasted to perfection, brings a pop of color and earthy flavor.
The crisp-tender texture of the asparagus provides a lovely contrast to the creamy dish, enhancing your dining experience.
Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness that will leave everyone reaching for more.
Their roasted goodness pairs perfectly with the savory prosciutto, elevating the entire meal.
Peach Lemonade: A refreshing drink with a touch of sweetness, this peach lemonade cools down the palate after the pasta’s rich flavors.
The fruity notes and citrusy zing make it an ideal refreshment to serve alongside your main course.
Tiramisu: For dessert, consider this classic Italian favorite that combines coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa for a luscious finish.
Its light, creamy layers serve as a sweet finale that ties in the theme of Italian indulgence throughout the meal.

Prosciutto Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right prosciutto for my pasta?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for thinly sliced Prosciutto di Parma, which has a delicate sweetness and rich saltiness. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative, Spanish Jamón Serrano works beautifully as well. Look for prosciutto that is rosy in color with some marbling; it indicates a good balance of fat and meat.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Prosciutto Pasta?
You can store your leftover Prosciutto Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life, as it tends to thicken after being refrigerated. This little trick ensures that every bite remains creamy and delightful.

Can I freeze Prosciutto Pasta?
Yes, but to retain quality, freeze your pasta without the cream sauce; this helps maintain the best texture. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then prepare a fresh cream sauce to combine it with the pasta. This ensures a fresh taste that rivals the original!

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, no worries at all! Simply add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you’ve reached your preferred consistency. This water contains starch from the pasta, which helps the sauce stick perfectly to your noodles while creating a luscious texture. It’s such a handy way to save the meal!

Can pets eat prosciutto?
While prosciutto can be tempting for our furry friends, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The high salt content can be harmful to them. If you’re looking for a safe treat, consider giving them some cooked plain chicken or vegetables instead. Keeping our pets healthy and safe should always be a priority!

Is there a way to make my Prosciutto Pasta healthier?
Very! To lighten up this dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, which still adds creaminess but cuts down on calories. Additionally, swapping some of the pasta for zucchini noodles or adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost the nutritional value while still providing that comforting taste you’re after!