left over ham recipe
The Best left over ham recipe
I also appreciate how balanced this recipe is. It’s not just ham—it’s a full meal with veggies, grains, and a touch of sweetness that makes it feel special without being heavy. My family especially loves it on game days or when we’re in a hurry, but it also works for everyday meals too. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ham without feeling like you’re throwing away food. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, whether you’re cooking for a big group or just a few people.
Quick Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pasta
A simple, flavorful way to repurpose leftover ham by stuffing it into pasta with a creamy tomato sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
🥘Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ lb leftover ham, diced
- 1 cup cooked pasta
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. -
2
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add diced ham and cook until heated through. Stir in cream cheese and butter until smooth. -
3
Mix cooked pasta, ham mixture, and ¼ cup marinara sauce in a bowl. Fold in mozzarella and Parmesan until evenly coated. -
4
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top. Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes. -
5
Uncover and bake for another 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Quick Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pasta
Can I reheat leftover ham from this recipe?
Yes, you can safely reheat leftover ham from this recipe. Use a gentle method like baking at 300°F (150°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through, or reheat in a microwave on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
How long will the ham stay fresh in the fridge?
Leftover ham from this recipe will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3–4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it within 2 days for up to 3 months.
Can I use this ham recipe for a brunch dish?
Absolutely! This ham’s mild, slightly sweet flavor works well in brunch dishes like ham and cheese croissants, ham and egg sandwiches, or even a simple ham and cream cheese toast. Just adjust seasoning if adding other strong flavors.
Is the ham in this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
This ham recipe uses store-bought ham, which typically contains gluten. If you’re avoiding gluten, check the packaging for a certified gluten-free label or use a fresh ham cut labeled gluten-free.
