1-First Step: Prepare Ingredients Begin by dicing cooked ham into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop a small onion (optional) and mince 2 garlic cloves. If using fresh peas, rinse thoroughly. This prep work ensures smooth cooking.

2-Second Step: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of medium-cut pasta and cook until just shy of al dente following package instructions (usually 7-10 minutes). Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta well. Set aside.

3-Third Step: Sauté Aromatics and Ham In a large, high-sided skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. If using onion, add it and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add diced ham and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through and lightly browned.

4-Fourth Step: Add Garlic and Peas Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add frozen peas directly to the skillet without thawing, cooking for 1-2 minutes until peas are tender but still vibrant green.

5-Fifth Step: Make the Cream Sauce Optional: Deglaze the pan with 2-3 tablespoons of water or white wine, reducing the liquid slightly. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes.

6-Sixth Step: Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning Whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to your preference.

7-Seventh Step: Combine Pasta and Sauce Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat each piece evenly. Pour in reserved pasta cooking water (2-3 tablespoons) as needed to loosen and help the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the pasta finishes cooking and absorbs the flavors. Add more pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.

8-Final Step: Rest and Serve Remove from heat and let the creamy ham pea pasta rest for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and additional grated Parmesan.