My sister first showed me this little trick one muddy March afternoon when the fields were still too soft to plant but everyone was already tired of heavy winter casseroles. She took just four simple things—ham, dry pasta, cream, and cheese—tucked them into little foil bundles, and let the slow cooker do the rest.
By suppertime, those mysterious packets were plump and tender, and the kids were begging to know what was hiding inside. These creamy ham pasta packets are the kind of recipe you can throw together on a busy spring day, then go about your business while the house fills with that cozy, old-fashioned supper smell.
Serve these creamy ham pasta packets right in their foil bundles on a plate, letting everyone open their own little surprise at the table. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed peas and carrots cuts through the richness nicely. Warm dinner rolls or buttered garlic toast are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce that sneaks out of the packets. A glass of iced tea or lemonade makes it feel like the first real taste of spring, even if there’s still a chill in the air.
Slow Cooker Creamy Ham Pasta Packets
Servings: 4
Bring the sides of the foil up and over the filling, then fold the edges together tightly to seal. Fold and crimp the ends as well so no cream can leak out. You want snug, well-sealed little bundles.
Place all the foil packets seam-side up into the bowl of a large slow cooker, fitting them in a single layer if possible. It’s fine if they touch or lean against each other.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese and cream have formed a rich, creamy sauce inside the packets. Turn off the slow cooker and let the packets rest for about 5 minutes. Carefully lift them out with tongs; they will be hot and steamy.
