Spaghetti with Cheese and Ham

This spaghetti dish with cheese and ham is an irresistible blend of flavors, perfect for a comforting, yet elegant, meal. The combination of creamy cheeses and salty ham creates a rich and indulgent sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully. With the addition of paprika, the flavors are enhanced, adding a subtle warmth to the dish. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. The use of parmezāna cheese adds an authentic Italian touch, while krievijas cheese provides a distinct creaminess. With a preparation time of just 35 minutes, this dish is convenient without compromising on taste. The versatility of ingredients makes it suitable for various dietary preferences. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a glass of wine for a complete meal. It's comfort food at its finest, offering a satisfying and indulgent dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 450 g spaghetti
• 175 g dried ham
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 eggs
• 75 g Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 75 g Russian cheese
• 6 tablespoons sweet cream
• 4 tablespoons broth

Spices

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook until al dente, as per package instructions.
3. While spaghetti is cooking, cut the ham into small pieces.
4. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the ham pieces to the pan and sauté until they are lightly golden.
6. Add the broth to the pan with ham and let it simmer until the liquid evaporates completely.
7. In a bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly and mix in both cheeses (Parmesan and Russian cheese). Set aside.
8. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain and immediately transfer it to the pan with the ham.
9. Quickly add the beaten egg and cheese mixture to the hot spaghetti and stir vigorously to coat the pasta. The heat of the spaghetti will cook the eggs.
10. Pour in the sweet cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
11. Season with paprika powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
12. Continue to cook over low heat for a few more minutes until everything is well mixed and heated through.
13. Ensure that the eggs are cooked thoroughly, transforming into a rich, creamy sauce.
14. Remove the pan from heat once the desired consistency is reached.
15. Let it rest for a minute before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
16. Transfer the spaghetti to serving plates while still warm.
17. Generously sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired.
18. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
19. Serve immediately, perhaps with garlic bread on the side for a more complete meal.
20. Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti with cheese and ham!

Tips

• Use whole-grain spaghetti for a healthier option.
• Substitute bacon for ham if preferred, or skip it for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust the cream quantity to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 680 per serving
• Protein: 30 g
• Fats: 45 g
• Carbs: 50 g

Variations

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive adaptation.
• Add spinach or mushrooms for additional vegetables and nutrients.
• Replace Russian cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside garlic bread or bruschetta.
• Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine or a cool, refreshing iced tea.

Best Places

• Osteria Francescana - Known for its creative Italian dishes, including exquisite pastas. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
• La Pergola - Offers a luxurious dining experience with panoramic views and fine Italian cuisine. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo, Rome, Italy.
• Pasta e Basta - Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious pasta dishes served with flair. Location: Nieuwe Spiegelstraat, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Narisawa - A Michelin-star restaurant celebrated for its innovative and artful Japanese fusion cuisine. Location: Minami Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.
• Ristorante Cracco - Famous for its modern take on traditional Italian recipes. Location: Milano, Italy.
• Sepia - Combining global flavors with local produce in stunning presentations. Location: Sussex Street, Sydney, Australia.
• The Clove Club - Features British classics with a contemporary twist in an elegant setting. Location: Shoreditch Town Hall, London, UK.
• Zuma - Offers high-end Japanese dishes with a sophisticated ambiance. Location: Miami, Florida, USA.
• Mikla - An Istanbul establishment that highlights Turkish and Scandinavian influences. Location: The Marmara Pera Hotel, Turkey.
• Benu - Known for its distinct integration of Asian and American styles. Location: Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, USA.