leftover ham recipe
The Best leftover ham recipe
I’ve found that this works especially well for occasions when you want something hearty but not heavy—whether it’s a weekend brunch, a casual family gathering, or even just a midweek pick-me-up. The way the ham absorbs the flavors of the ingredients makes it feel like a whole new dish, and the added freshness from the lemon and herbs keeps it from feeling like a sad second helping. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and healthy fats without making anyone feel like they’re sacrificing flavor. My kids especially like it because it’s easy to customize—swap out the greens for their favorite, or add extra cheese if they’re craving something richer. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little treat, no matter how often you make it.
Quick Ham & Cheese Stuffed Pasta
A simple, flavorful way to turn leftover ham into a hearty pasta dish. The creamy sauce and tender ham make this a satisfying meal in under an hour.
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups shredded ham
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳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 heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. -
3
Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated Parmesan until smooth. -
4
Add cooked pasta and shredded ham to the skillet. Stir in reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Kitchen shears
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Quick Ham & Cheese Stuffed Pasta Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quick Ham & Cheese Stuffed Pasta
Can I reheat leftover ham for another meal?
Yes, you can safely reheat leftover ham. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes, until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent drying out.
How should I store ham leftovers to keep them fresh?
Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before sealing in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my ham isn’t fully cooked through?
If the ham feels slightly underdone, you can finish cooking it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 extra minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). For a crispier texture, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Can I use leftover ham in other dishes besides sandwiches?
Absolutely! Leftover ham works well in breakfast hash, pasta salads, stuffed peppers, or even a savory omelet. Shred or dice it for texture, and pair it with veggies, cheese, or grains to create new meals.
