Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta recipe—a comforting, yet lightened-up twist on a classic favorite! Featuring tender penne pasta tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made with reduced-fat cream cheese, milk, and tangy ranch seasoning, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and better-for-you ingredients. Studded with savory diced ham, vibrant green peas, and a blend of melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish, this six-serving meal is ideal for busy weeknights or when you're craving a hearty, family-friendly pasta dish. Serve it fresh from the skillet, and don’t forget the extra sprinkle of Parmesan for an added touch of decadence!
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1.5 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine.
Step 4
Add the diced ham and thawed peas to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is heated through and the peas are tender.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Step 6
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Step 7
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Makeover Ranch Ham N Cheese Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1482.7g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3258.0 |
| Total Fat 127.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 67.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.9g | |
| Cholesterol 515.8mg | 0% |
| Sodium 7968.6mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 319.5g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 24.0g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 35.9g | |
| Protein 195.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 111.8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1712.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 17.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2669.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories