Mexican White Spaghetti with Ham is a rich and creamy dish that’s a comforting favorite in Mexican cuisine, often served at parties, family gatherings, or as a quick weeknight dinner. It typically features a creamy white sauce, spaghetti, and diced ham, with flavors enhanced by cream, cheese, and sometimes a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Mexican cheese like Chihuahua or Manchego)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 jalapeños or poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
- Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced ham and cook for 2–3 minutes. (If using jalapeños or poblano peppers, stir them in now.)
- Blend the Creamy Base
- In a blender, combine sour cream (or crema), milk, evaporated milk, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth.
- Cook the Cream Sauce
- Pour the blended mixture into the skillet with the ham. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 5–7 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan cheese (or alternative cheese) and stir until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.
This dish can be paired with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even served as a side to grilled meat. You can also adjust the creaminess or spice level to suit your preferences. Enjoy!
