Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

Weeknights in our house are often a whirlwind. Between school runs, homework battles, and the general chaos of family life, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. That’s precisely why this Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta recipe has become such a staple in our rotation. It’s the kind of dish that comes together surprisingly quickly, yet delivers a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that everyone, from the pickiest eaters to the more adventurous palates, truly enjoys. Honestly, I can’t even count how many times this recipe has saved the day when time is short and hunger is high. The kids love the fun bowtie shape of the pasta, and the sweet and savory tomato sauce is simply irresistible. My husband and I appreciate that it’s a complete meal in one bowl, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and wholesome, perfect for those evenings when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re searching for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, look no further – this Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta is destined to become a new family favorite in your home too.

Ingredients for Delicious Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

This recipe relies on simple, readily available ingredients to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 1 pound Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The star of the dish, bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, offers a playful shape and holds the sauce beautifully. You’ll need 1 pound of dried bowtie pasta for this recipe.
• 8 ounces Cooked Ham: Provides a savory protein element, adding depth and substance to the pasta. You’ll need 8 ounces of cooked ham, diced into bite-sized pieces. Look for good quality ham for the best flavor.
• 28 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes: Forms the base of the flavorful and vibrant tomato sauce. Use a large 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes. Fire-roasted tomatoes will add a smoky dimension, but regular diced tomatoes work wonderfully too.
• 3-4 cloves Fresh Garlic: Essential for adding aromatic depth and pungent flavor to the sauce. You’ll need 3-4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced finely. Fresh garlic is key for the best taste.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion: A foundational aromatic that adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce as it cooks down. One medium yellow onion, finely chopped, is needed for this recipe.
• ¼ cup Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and adding richness to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor and health benefits. About ¼ cup will be sufficient.
• ½ cup Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory notes of the sauce. Low-sodium chicken broth is a good choice to control the salt content. You’ll need ½ cup of chicken broth.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that perfectly complements tomatoes and ham, adding a warm and slightly peppery flavor. 1 teaspoon of dried oregano is perfect.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Basil: Another essential Italian herb, basil brings a sweet and aromatic element that enhances the overall flavor profile. 1 teaspoon of dried basil is recommended.
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a subtle hint of heat. A pinch of red pepper flakes, about ¼ teaspoon, adds a gentle kick, but can be omitted for those who prefer a milder flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste: To season and enhance all the flavors in the dish. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
• 1 small bunch Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color to the completed dish. A small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped, is ideal for garnishing.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional, for serving): For serving, adding a salty, umami richness that complements the tomato and ham beautifully. Grated Parmesan cheese is a delicious topping.

Detailed Instructions for Making Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

This Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta recipe is designed to be incredibly easy to follow, even for novice cooks. Each step is straightforward, ensuring a successful and delicious meal every time. Let’s walk through the process:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Begin by filling a large pot with salted water and bringing it to a vigorous rolling boil over high heat. The salt is crucial for seasoning the pasta as it cooks, enhancing its flavor from within. Once the water is boiling rapidly, carefully add the bowtie pasta to the pot. Stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together, especially in the initial moments of cooking. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. “Al dente,” meaning “to the tooth” in Italian, describes pasta that is cooked through but still firm to the bite, not mushy or overcooked. Typically, bowtie pasta takes around 8-10 minutes to cook al dente, but always refer to the specific instructions on your pasta package for the most accurate timing. While the pasta is cooking, you can efficiently proceed with preparing the flavorful tomato sauce, making the most of your time in the kitchen.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking away, take a large skillet or a pot with a wide base and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil to the skillet and allow it to heat up. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers slightly, indicating it’s hot enough for sautéing. Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the hot olive oil. Sauté the onion, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or spatula, for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes softened and translucent. This gentle sautéing process, often called sweating the onions, draws out their natural sweetness and mellows their pungent flavor, creating a foundational layer of flavor for the sauce. Ensure you don’t brown the onions at this stage; we are aiming for softened sweetness, not caramelization. Keep the heat at medium and stir regularly to prevent any browning.
3. Add Garlic and Spices to Enhance Flavor: Once the onions have softened and turned translucent, add the minced fresh garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté the garlic along with the onions for another minute or two, until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be mindful not to overcook or burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the sauce. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it and stir frequently. You’ll know it’s ready when you can clearly smell its pungent and aromatic fragrance filling your kitchen. Next, it’s time to introduce the dried spices. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you are using them for a touch of heat). Cooking the dried spices in the warm oil for about 30 seconds to a minute, a technique known as blooming, helps to release their essential oils and significantly enhance their aromatic intensity and flavor. This step elevates the overall depth of flavor in the tomato sauce.
4. Build the Tomato and Ham Sauce: Now, pour the canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics and spices. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes, or for up to 30 minutes for a richer, more developed flavor. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, and the sauce will thicken slightly as it reduces and the tomatoes break down. Stir the sauce occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking to the bottom of the skillet and to ensure even cooking and flavor development.
5. Incorporate the Ham and Season: After the sauce has simmered for the desired time and the flavors have had a chance to meld, it’s time to add the diced cooked ham to the skillet. Stir the ham into the tomato sauce and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes or so, just until the ham is heated through. This brief simmering period ensures the ham warms up without becoming dry. Now, it’s crucial to season the sauce to perfection. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and then carefully taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning according to your personal preference. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away, so season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce for the Final Touch: By this point, the bowtie pasta should be cooked al dente. Once it is, carefully drain the pasta in a colander, making sure to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining completely. The reserved pasta water is starchy and can be incredibly useful for adjusting the sauce consistency and creating a silky smooth finish. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet containing the flavorful ham and tomato sauce. Toss the pasta and sauce together gently but thoroughly to ensure that every piece of bowtie pasta is evenly coated in the delicious sauce. If you find that the sauce is a bit too thick for your liking, or if you prefer a slightly looser consistency, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, tossing in between additions, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water will emulsify with the sauce, creating a lovely, glossy coating that clings beautifully to the pasta.
7. Serve and Garnish for a Delicious Presentation: Your Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta is now ready to be served! Serve it immediately while it’s hot and at its most flavorful. Ladle generous portions of the pasta into bowls. For the perfect finishing touch, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that complements the richness of the tomato sauce and ham. If desired, offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who would like to add a salty, umami boost to their pasta. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhances the savory flavors and adds a delightful cheesy element. Serve hot and enjoy this quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal!

Nutritional Information for Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta (per serving, approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients, ham type, and serving sizes.)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-20g
• Saturated Fat: 5-7g

This Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta offers a balanced nutritional profile, providing a good source of protein from the ham, carbohydrates from the pasta, and fiber from the tomatoes and vegetables. It’s a satisfying and relatively wholesome meal option.

Preparation Time: A Speedy Weeknight Dinner Solution

One of the greatest advantages of this Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta recipe is its speed and convenience. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready on the table in approximately 30-35 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (chopping onion, garlic, ham, parsley, measuring spices)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (pasta cooking, sauce simmering, combining)

This quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful and wholesome dinner without spending excessive time in the kitchen. The efficient cooking process, where the sauce simmers while the pasta cooks, maximizes your time and effort.

Serving Suggestions for Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Classic Main Course: Serve generous portions of Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta as the primary focus of your meal. It is hearty and flavorful enough to stand alone as a satisfying dinner.
• Accompanied by a Fresh Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light and tangy vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta dish. Consider a simple salad of mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• With Warm Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or slices of crusty Italian bread for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful tomato sauce. Garlic bread adds a comforting and indulgent element to the meal.
• Paired with Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and add more vegetables to your meal by serving Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta with a side of roasted vegetables. Roasted broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or green beans would all be excellent choices.
• Add a Sprinkle of Fresh Herbs: Always garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano just before serving. Fresh herbs brighten the flavors and add visual appeal.
• Cheese Toppings: Offer a variety of cheese options for topping the pasta at the table. Grated Parmesan cheese is a classic choice, but you could also offer Pecorino Romano, shredded mozzarella, or even a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese for added richness.
• Protein Boost (Optional): For those who desire an even more protein-rich meal, you could add grilled chicken, Italian sausage (consider turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option), or shrimp to the pasta.
• Wine Pairing: For a perfect adult pairing, serve with a light to medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Sangiovese, which will complement the tomato sauce and ham beautifully. A crisp dry rosé or a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio would also be enjoyable.

Additional Tips for Perfect Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

To ensure your Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its pleasant texture. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package recommended time and drain it as soon as it’s al dente.
2. Use Good Quality Ham: The flavor of the ham significantly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Choose a good quality cooked ham for the best results. Smoked ham or Black Forest ham can add an extra layer of flavor.
3. Fresh Garlic is Key: While garlic powder can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic provides a much brighter and more pungent flavor that is essential for this recipe. Don’t skimp on the fresh garlic.
4. Simmer the Sauce for Flavor Development: Allow the tomato sauce to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and deepen, creating a richer and more complex sauce.
5. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is a valuable tool for adjusting the consistency of the sauce and creating a silky smooth texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
6. Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the sauce generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure the flavors are well-balanced and vibrant.
7. Add a Touch of Creaminess (Optional): For a richer and creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even cream cheese towards the end of the cooking process. This adds a luxurious touch to the pasta.
8. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and heat up the sauce. This makes it an even faster weeknight meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta, to help you troubleshoot and achieve pasta perfection:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bowtie pasta?
A: Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is classic and holds the sauce well, you can easily substitute other pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells would all work beautifully with this sauce. Choose a pasta shape that you enjoy and that will capture the sauce nicely.

Q2: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. For a 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes, you’ll need approximately 1.5 to 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and chop the fresh tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. You may need to simmer the sauce for a longer period to reduce the liquid and achieve the desired consistency when using fresh tomatoes.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ham. You can add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to add substance and flavor. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or chickpeas for added protein.

Q4: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Yes, if you like a spicier dish, you can easily increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You could also add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the onions and garlic for a more pronounced heat.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover Ham and Tomato Bowtie Pasta?
A: While pasta dishes with tomato sauce can be frozen, the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the sauce separately from the cooked pasta. Cook pasta fresh when you are ready to serve. If you do freeze the complete dish, ensure it is cooled completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q6: What other herbs can I add to the sauce?
A: Besides oregano and basil, other herbs that complement tomato sauce and ham include thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf (remove bay leaf before serving). Fresh herbs like chopped basil, parsley, or chives can be added as a garnish at the end for a burst of freshness.

Q7: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or olives would all be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic or towards the end of the sauce simmering time.

Q8: What if I don’t have chicken broth? Can I use something else?
A: If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute vegetable broth or even just water. However, chicken broth adds a richer, more savory flavor to the sauce. If using water, you might want to add a bit more salt and perhaps a bouillon cube or a teaspoon of Better than Bouillon to enhance the savory notes.

Print