20 pasta recipes to simplify your weeknight

Find comfort and ease with these 20 pasta recipes.

14. Pasta with ham and mushrooms in a creamy ricotta sauce

The Gourmand Mom
Ham and mushrooms in a creamy, cheesy spinach ricotta sauce served over a bed of fresh pasta.

By Amy Deline, The Gourmand Mom

1-2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if necessary
2 cups baby bella mushrooms, sliced
1/2 medium onion, finely diced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
2 cups ricotta cheese
1-1/2 cups milk
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups leftover ham, diced
1 6-ounce bag baby spinach leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 pound pasta, cooked al dente
Additional Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper, for garnish

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms. Cook for 7-10 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized. Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.

2. Add a touch more olive oil to the pan, if necessary, then add the onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender and golden. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the ricotta cheese, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently, until hot and well blended.

3. Add the mushrooms, ham, and spinach. Gently simmer for a few minutes until the spinach is wilted. Taste and season with salt and pepper, as desired.

4. Pour the sauce over cooked pasta and toss to combine. Garnish with crushed red pepper and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

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14 of 20

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