Ham and Broccoli Pasta

Ham and Broccoli Pasta

Classification: Keto • Low-Carb • Gluten-Free • High-Protein • Family-Friendly • Autism-Friendly

Looking for a comforting keto pasta recipe, creamy low-carb ham pasta, or an easy family dinner? This Ham and Broccoli Pasta combines keto-friendly penne, tender broccoli, nitrate-free ham, garlic, onions, cream, Dijon mustard, and melted cheddar cheese into a rich, satisfying meal that's full of flavour without the excess carbohydrates. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling like classic comfort food.

At Nutrition by Angie, we believe you shouldn't have to give up your favourite meals to eat well. This keto-friendly version delivers all the creamy goodness of traditional pasta while providing plenty of protein and wholesome ingredients.

Benefits of the Main Ingredients

Keto Penne Pasta

Keto penne offers the comforting texture of traditional pasta while being significantly lower in carbohydrates. Many varieties are also higher in fibre and protein, making them an excellent choice for a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle.

Broccoli

Broccoli is naturally low in carbohydrates and packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, fibre, and antioxidants. It adds freshness, colour, and valuable nutrients while complementing the creamy sauce.

Onion

Onion provides natural sweetness and aromatic depth while contributing fibre, vitamin C, and beneficial plant compounds.

Garlic

Fresh garlic enhances the savoury flavour of the dish while containing naturally occurring antioxidant compounds that pair beautifully with the cream and cheese.

Nitrate-Free Ham

Nitrate-free ham provides high-quality protein along with vitamin B12, selenium, phosphorus, and zinc. Choosing nitrate-free ham helps minimise added preservatives while delivering excellent flavour.

Cream

Cream creates a rich, velvety sauce that's naturally low in carbohydrates and perfectly suited to a ketogenic lifestyle. It also contributes healthy fats that help keep you feeling satisfied.

Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream and cheese while deepening the overall flavour.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in protein, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. It melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, comforting finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Ham and Broccoli Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavours. The combination of tender broccoli, savoury ham, and rich cheddar sauce coats every piece of keto pasta, creating a satisfying meal that's perfect for the whole family. Naturally gluten-free, low in carbohydrates, and high in protein, it's ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Whether you're looking for a healthy pasta dinner, keto comfort food, low-carb family meal, or an easy high-protein recipe, this dish offers all the flavour of a classic pasta bake without the carb overload.

Autism-Friendly Benefits

This recipe features soft, familiar textures that many autistic individuals may find comforting. The creamy sauce creates consistency throughout the dish, while the broccoli can be chopped into smaller florets or cooked until extra tender to better suit individual sensory preferences. Ham provides high-quality protein to support steady energy, and broccoli contributes important vitamins, minerals, and fibre. As with all recipes, ingredients can easily be adapted to individual taste and texture preferences.

Tip

Serve with Garlic Sautéed Kale, roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete keto meal. Finish with extra grated cheddar or Parmesan, chopped parsley, and cracked black pepper for even more flavour. For additional protein, stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon before serving.