Description
This Leftover Ham and Creamy Pasta recipe is a quick and comforting dish that transforms leftover ham into a rich, creamy pasta meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, it combines tender pasta with a luscious cream sauce, savory ham, and simple ingredients for a satisfying and family-friendly dinner that reduces food waste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Leftover ham, cubed or shredded – 1 to 1 ½ cups
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or shells recommended) – 8 ounces
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese, grated – ½ cup
- Garlic, fresh minced – 2 cloves
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Onion, finely chopped – ½ cup
- Salt – to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional) – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water for the sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Ham: Fold in the leftover ham pieces, allowing them to warm through and develop a slight golden crust for added flavor and texture.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the drained pasta into the sauce and ham mixture, making sure every piece is coated in the creamy goodness. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use Real Cream: Heavy cream gives a richer sauce, but half-and-half can work for a lighter dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta perfectly.
- Don’t Overcook Ham: Warm it just enough to avoid dryness and keep it tender.
- Add Herbs Last: Fresh herbs lose their flavor if overcooked, so add them right before serving.
- Cheese Quality Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes richer than pre-grated versions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg