Creamy Pasta with Ham and Broccoli

Creamy Pasta with Ham and Broccoli (Adapted from Everyday Food)

12 ounces (3/4 pound) broccoli, trimmed and cut into florets
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
salt and fresh ground black pepper
6 ounces wide egg noodles
5 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
6 ounces thinly sliced deli ham, cut into 3/4" pieces

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

In a large baking sheet, add broccoli - drizzle with oil and season with salt and fresh ground black pepper, tossing to coat. Place into the oven and bake, tossing halfway through, until broccoli is tender and lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes,

Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook noodles according to package directions. Reserve 2 cups of the pasta cooking water, then drain pasta.

Place pot back onto the stove over medium-low. Add cream cheese and 1 cup pasta water. Whisk until heated and smooth. Stir in broccoli and ham - cook briefly until heated through. Add noodles and gently toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add enough of the remaining pasta water to thin. Season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to serve.

Makes 4 servings.

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