After a holiday we are on a cleanup mission. We look through what we have in the fridge and either eat through the leftovers, freeze what we can and repurpose some into new meals. This recipe for Ham and Peas Penne Pasta is one of our favorite ways to use up leftovers.
Penne pasta is cooked to al dente perfection then coated with a creamy cheesy sauce and tossed with diced ham and peas. Top with parsley for an extra touch.
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How to use up leftover ham
Ham and Peas Penne Pasta can use up a good amount of your leftover ham. Ham on the bone will be easiest to use. Removed meat from the bone, then cube into small ½ inch cubes. If using spiral cut ham, cut ham off the bone, then slice into strips. Either variety can be used in this recipe, however for either cut omit and dried or hardened portions of the hame from this recipe.
I love repurposing leftovers. Some other great leftover ham recipes include Ham Mac and Cheese, Easy Creamy Ham Tetrazzini, and Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup.
What to use if not using leftovers
If you are making this at a time of year where you don't have leftovers on hand, substitute the leftover ham with a ham steak. Ham steaks can be found at most grocery stores and are fairly inexpensive. Heat ham steak on both sides until warmed though in a large pan. Let cool slightly, then cut into cubes.
What to use instead of ham
Sometimes you just don't have ham on hand but you can substitute it for another add in:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Beef
- Tuna
- Spinach
Using fresh or frozen peas
For this recipe you can use either fresh or frozen peas. Frozen peas are usually frozen at peak ripeness and are available everywhere year round. When using frozen peas, you can add directly to the pasta and cook until warmed through.
If using fresh peas, make sure that the peas are firm and plump. Peas are usually seasonal and most common in the summer months. When using fresh peas, add to the pasta as you would for frozen peas. The cook time is a bit reduced; cook until warmed through and bright green.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Cup Onion Diced
- 1 ½ Cups Ham Cubed
- 1 Cup Chicken Stock
- 8 Oz Penne Pasta
- ¾ Cup Frozen Peas
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Pepper To taste
- Salt To taste
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
Storage
This recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you have the option to microwave until warmed through or to heat on the stovetop at a low heat until warmed through.
The leftovers for this meal can be frozen as well. Place into an airtight container and keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat by defrosting in a microwave.
Ham and Peas Penne Pasta
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Cup Onion Diced
- 1 ½ Cups Ham Cubed
- 1 Cup Chicken Stock
- 8 Oz Penne Pasta
- ¾ Cup Frozen Peas
- ¼ Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- Pepper To taste
- Salt To taste
Instructions
- Cook penne per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large pan on medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add ham and cook until heated through.
- Add chicken stock, heavy cream and penne. Bring to a simmer, then stir in cheese.
- Add peas and stir to fully incorporate. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Cook until sauce has thickened, 3-5 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Chenée says
What a great idea! I love fridge clean-up meals. I will definitely be giving this a try since I have some frozen peas to use up!
Toni says
This is so perfect any night of the week! Such a delicious weeknight meal!
Kim says
Such a quick delicious meal. I always have these ingredients on hand so I plan on making it right away. Call me crazy but I think this is going to be just as good cold as warm. Yum!
Shadi says
So delicious! Thank you for this amazing recipe!
Denay says
I'm all about quick easy meals for the busy work week. This penne pasta recipe tops the list! It's added to our family's monthly meal plan.