Description
Creamy ham tetrazzini invites comfort with its luxurious blend of pasta, savory ham, and rich cheese sauce. Simmering with classic Italian-American charm, this hearty dish promises a satisfying meal that delights hungry diners at every forkful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) milk
Pasta and Other Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) spaghetti
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 6 ounces (170 grams) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a moderate 350F (175C), creating an ideal environment for the upcoming dish.
- Transform spaghetti into a tender canvas by cooking according to package guidance, ensuring an al dente texture. Carefully drain and reserve.
- Craft a flavor foundation in a spacious skillet by melting butter, then introducing diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until onions become translucent and mushrooms develop a rich, soft character, approximately 5 minutes.
- Enhance the skillet’s contents by whisking condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk into a harmonious, smooth sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to elevate the taste profile.
- Introduce diced ham, thawed peas, and three-quarters of the cheddar cheese into the skillet. Gently stir until the cheese melts and ingredients integrate seamlessly.
- Marry the prepared sauce with cooked spaghetti, ensuring each pasta strand becomes thoroughly enrobed in the creamy mixture.
- Transfer the vibrant combination into a 9×13-inch baking vessel, distributing the contents evenly to guarantee consistent flavor distribution.
- Embellish the casserole’s surface with remaining cheddar cheese, sprinkle Parmesan, and optional breadcrumbs, creating a tantalizing golden crust.
- Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 20-25 minutes until the top achieves a golden hue and the interior bubbles with anticipation.
- Pause briefly to let the tetrazzini settle, then serve this comforting culinary creation.
Notes
- Swap regular spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or celiac-friendly alternative.
- Use low-fat milk and cheese to reduce overall calorie content without compromising flavor.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutritional value and create more colorful texture.
- Substitute ham with turkey ham or plant-based protein for lower-sodium or vegetarian versions of the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg