If you love the sweet and savory flavors of Hawaiian pizza, you’ll love this comforting One Pot Hawaiian Pasta. This easy dinner combines juicy pineapple, smoky ham, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce—all cooked in a single pot. The result is a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor while keeping cleanup to a minimum.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is ready in about 30 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot means less cleanup.
• Ready in around 30 minutes.
• Sweet and savory flavors everyone enjoys.
• Kid-friendly and budget-friendly.
• Great for leftovers.
• Easily customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ham

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned.

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Step 2: Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and milk.

Stir in:

• Italian seasoning
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Bring everything to a gentle boil.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta.

Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

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Step 4: Add the Hawaiian Flavor

Stir in the pineapple chunks.

Mix in:

• Cream cheese (if using)
• Mozzarella
• Cheddar
• Parmesan

Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.

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Step 5: Garnish

Top with:

• Green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan if desired

Serve immediately while hot.

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Tips for Success

• Use fresh pineapple for a brighter flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue softening in the sauce.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties.
• Stir frequently near the end to prevent sticking.

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Delicious Variations

Bacon Hawaiian Pasta

Replace some of the ham with crispy bacon for even more smoky flavor.

Chicken Hawaiian Pasta

Swap the ham for grilled chicken breast.

Spicy Hawaiian

Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Veggie Hawaiian

Mix in:

• Red bell peppers
• Peas
• Spinach
• Mushrooms

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What to Serve With It

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted asparagus
• Hawaiian rolls
• Fresh fruit salad

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Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, add a splash of milk before warming on the stovetop or in the microwave to restore the creamy texture.

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Can You Freeze It?

Yes. Freeze portions for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a little milk or chicken broth.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per serving:

• Calories: 560
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 980mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes. Just be sure to drain it well to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

What pasta works best?

Penne, rotini, shells, and bowtie pasta all work well because they hold onto the creamy sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta, but monitor the cooking time since it may vary.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for a satisfying meat-free version.

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Final Thoughts

One Pot Hawaiian Pasta is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The combination of creamy cheese, smoky ham, sweet pineapple, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying meal that brings tropical-inspired flavors to your dinner table with very little effort.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or simply something new to add to your recipe collection, this one-pot meal delivers delicious results every time. With endless customization options and minimal cleanup, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.