Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for Ham and Mushroom Stroganoff is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner. It's a comforting classic, elevated with simple techniques and fresh ingredients. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, delivering a healthy and delicious dish that the whole family will love. Get ready to experience the delightful combination of savory ham and earthy mushrooms in a creamy, irresistible sauce!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 4 ounces ham, diced (cooked ham works perfectly)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta or egg noodles, for serving
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Let's get cooking! These step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen.
Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms and Ham: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced ham and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off. (This step adds depth of flavor, but the chicken broth substitute works just as well.)
Step 3: Creamy Perfection: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Finishing Touches: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the ham and mushroom stroganoff over your favorite cooked pasta or egg noodles. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations for Delicious Dishes
Here are some helpful tips and variations to elevate your ham and mushroom experience:
- Mushroom Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or a mix.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even milk instead of heavy cream.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. A touch of Dijon mustard can also add a nice tang.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad for a well-rounded and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This delicious Ham and Mushroom Stroganoff recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals don't have to be complicated. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that are both satisfying and flavorful. Enjoy this best recipe and let us know what you think!