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One Pot Ham & Penne Skillet: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

In the fast-paced world we live in, finding a meal that is both simple to prepare and delightful to the palate can feel like a daunting task. Enter the One Pot Ham & Penne Skillet, a dish that not only packs a punch with its robust flavours but also allows for minimal cleanup. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting meal with little fuss. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following:

• 250g penne pasta
• 200g cooked ham, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
• 400ml chicken stock
• 200ml double cream
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or thyme work wonderfully)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 100g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cook the Pasta:
   Pour in the penne pasta and stir to combine. Allow the pasta to toast slightly for about a minute to enhance its flavour. Then, add the chicken stock, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

3. Add the Ham:
   Once simmering, stir in the diced ham, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for around 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

4. Creamy Finish:
   After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and pour in the double cream, stirring well to combine. Allow it to simmer for a further 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly. If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add a splash more of chicken stock or water.

5. Add Cheese:
   Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated cheese until it melts into the creamy mixture. This creates a luscious, cheesy sauce that brings the dish together beautifully.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of colour and fresh flavour. Serve immediately in bowls, and perhaps offer some crusty bread on the side to mop up the delicious sauce.

Tips for Customisation

One of the great aspects of the One Pot Ham & Penne Skillet is its versatility. Feel free to incorporate your favourite vegetables—spinach, mushrooms, or sweetcorn all work well. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you’d like to make this dish vegetarian, omit the ham and replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock.

Conclusion

The One Pot Ham & Penne Skillet is a quintessential weeknight meal—quick, easy and utterly satisfying. With its creamy texture and the delightful flavour of ham, this dish promises to become a family favourite. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but the convenience of one-pot cooking ensures a stress-free time in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this comforting and delicious meal tonight!

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