why make this recipe

This dish cooks fast and tastes good. It uses the Instant Pot so you save time. It makes a warm, cheesy meal that kids and adults like. If you enjoy easy dinners and potato sides, you might also like Hamburger Potato Casserole for another simple meal idea.

introduction

This Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta is quick and creamy. You use dry pasta, broth, ham, and cheese. The Instant Pot does the work. The recipe is good for busy weeknights and for using leftover ham. For a simple potato side, try Air Fryer Ranch Potatoes as a quick pairing.

how to make Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta

Add the dry rotini, chicken broth, water, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ground mustard to the Instant Pot.
Put the lid on and set the valve to sealing.
Cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
Do a quick pressure release.
Open the pot carefully. Stir in the diced ham, cream cheese, and sour cream until the cream cheese melts.
Stir in the milk. Add the shredded cheddar in 3 handfuls, stirring between each addition until the sauce is smooth.

Ingredients :

1 16 Ounce Box Rotini
2 Cups Chicken Broth
2 Cups Water
1 teaspoon Hot Sauce*
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Pepper
1/4 teaspoon Ground Mustard
1 Pound Diced Ham
4 Ounces Cream Cheese (Softened)
1/4 Cup Sour Cream
2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1/2 Cup Milk

Directions :

Add the uncooked rotini along with the chicken broth, water, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ground mustard to the pot.
Place the lid on the pot and set the valve to sealing.
Cook on manual, high pressure, for 5 minutes, then do a quick pressure release.
Carefully open the pot and stir in the diced ham, cream cheese, and sour cream.
Next, stir in the milk, then add the cheese 3 handfuls at a time, stirring in between each addition until smooth.

how to serve Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta

Serve hot from the pot. Spoon into bowls or on plates. Add extra shredded cheese on top if you like. A green salad or simple steamed veggies go well with it.

how to store Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta

Cool the pasta to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little milk to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze cream-based pasta; the texture may change.

tips to make Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta

Use diced ham from your fridge or deli ham.
Soften the cream cheese first so it mixes easier.
Stir the cheese in slowly to keep the sauce smooth.
If the pasta is too thick after cooling, add a splash of milk when you reheat.
For other easy sides, try Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes to keep the meal simple and fast.

variation (if any)

Swap rotini for another small pasta like shells.
Use cooked chicken instead of ham for a different protein.
Add frozen peas or chopped broccoli at the end for veggies.
Use pepper jack instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Use any small pasta. Cook time may change with very large shapes.

Q: Can I skip the hot sauce?
A: Yes. It adds a little zing but you can leave it out.

Q: Is this safe for the Instant Pot?
A: Yes. Follow your Instant Pot instructions and use the sealing valve for pressure cooking.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Use a plant-based ham alternative or omit the ham and add extra veggies and beans.

Conclusion

For the original recipe source and extra tips, see Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta – The Salty Marshmallow.

Ham & Cheese Instant Pot Pasta

Print Recipe

Quick and creamy pasta dish with ham and cheese made in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Instructions

Add the dry rotini, chicken broth, water, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ground mustard to the Instant Pot.
Put the lid on and set the valve to sealing.
Cook on manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
Do a quick pressure release.
Open the pot carefully. Stir in the diced ham, cream cheese, and sour cream until the cream cheese melts.
Stir in the milk. Add the shredded cheddar in 3 handfuls, stirring between each addition until the sauce is smooth.

Notes

Use diced ham from your fridge or deli ham. Soften the cream cheese first for easier mixing.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: instant pot, pasta, ham, quick meals, comfort food