Hawaiian Pizza Pasta: A Cozy Culinary Adventure for the Family
In the heart of every home, the kitchen breathes life, laughter, and love. Memories built around the stove often blend with the aromas that waft through the air, evoking feelings of comfort and joy. One such dish that embodies this spirit is Hawaiian Pizza Pasta—a glorious fusion that marries the beloved flavor profiles of Hawaiian pizza with the cozy essence of homemade pasta. It’s the sort of quick dinner idea that brings everyone around the table, igniting conversation and laughter, and transforming an ordinary weeknight into something special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavors: Juicy pineapple, savory ham, and gooey cheese create a symphony of taste that will have your family asking for seconds.
- Easy to Prepare: This is a one-pot meal that can be whipped up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-Pleasing: With its familiar flavors and playful twist, this dish is sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples and simple ingredients ensures that you can enjoy a delightful dinner without breaking the bank.
- Comforting: Like a warm hug at the end of a long day, this dish captures the essence of comfort food in every bite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta you prefer; fusilli works too!)
- 1 cup diced ham (feel free to swap with turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, but if you opt for canned, make sure to drain them)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (try using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade—whichever you have on hand)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional but oh-so-fresh!)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This Hawaiian Pizza Pasta is a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving a comforting homemade meal without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Ham: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced ham and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly crispy, releasing its savory aroma.
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Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta back to the pot. Stir in the pizza sauce, pineapple chunks, Italian seasoning, and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the pot with a lid for 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey.
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Serve: Once the cheese has melted, give it a gentle stir to incorporate everything. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations and Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few fun twists you can experiment with:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a vibrant, veggie-packed meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
- Creamy Version: For a luscious treat, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before serving for a creamy Hawaiian Pizza Pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian Pizza Pasta is delightful as a stand-alone dish, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for that extra touch of comfort. Imagine serving it at a family gathering or cozy dinner party, where laughter flows as freely as the delicious food. You can even make it a festive treat during holidays, adding some colorful vegetables or herbs to brighten up the table.
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? No worries! Store your Hawaiian Pizza Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags. Reheating is a breeze—just toss in a microwave-safe bowl and warm it up, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. The cheese will become melty and delightful once again!
Kitchen Tips for Success
- Perfect Pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta; al dente is key to keeping its firmness, especially when you reheat it.
- Layer Flavors: Toast spices before adding them to release their essential oils and deepen the flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Mix different types of cheese for added depth—think gouda or pepper jack for a fun twist!
FAQs
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Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, whether it’s spaghetti or farfalle.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
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Can this be frozen? Yes! Just make sure it cools completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers.
Conclusion
With its wonderful blend of tropical flavors, comfort, and ease, Hawaiian Pizza Pasta is a dish that promises to bring heartfelt joy to your dining table. It invites creativity and connection, reminding us that the best meals are those shared with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, dive into the recipe, and make new memories in your cozy kitchen. Happy cooking!
Contents
Hawaiian Pizza Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta or any pasta you prefer; fusilli works too!
- 1 cup diced ham feel free to swap with turkey for a healthier option
- 1 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned, but if you opt for canned, make sure to drain them
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese try using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer flavor
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce store-bought or homemade—whichever you have on hand
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional but oh-so-fresh!
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced ham and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly crispy.
Cooking
- Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta back to the pot. Stir in the pizza sauce, pineapple chunks, Italian seasoning, and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the pasta is coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the pot with a lid for 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey.
Serving
- Once the cheese has melted, give it a gentle stir to incorporate everything. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest