Whip up a storm in your kitchen with this scrumptious “Leftover Ham and Cheese Penne”. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a lazy Sunday, a busy weekday meal, or even a potluck dinner with friends. Reasonably quick to prepare and extremely filling, it’s the perfect blend of protein and carbs with a creamy, cheesy twist. And, the best part? It makes use of that leftover holiday ham. When you serve this dish, you might just hear a chorus of “yums” from your family and friends!
What is there not to love about “Leftover Ham and Cheese Penne”? It’s delicious, it’s easy, and it helps you utilize leftovers, so it’s a win-win situation for everyone! Plus, the penne in the dish is just top-notch, retaining its al dente texture amidst the oozing cheese and succulent bits of ham. Now, let’s get cooking folks!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Yield: 6 servings
Let’s move on to the fun part – actual cooking. Get your chef’s hat on, and let’s jump right in!
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 3 cups of leftover ham
- 2 cups Penne pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
You’ll need a large pot, a strainer, and a skillet.
The ham provides a fantastic protein source for this meal and the cheesy creaminess ties it all together. The onion and garlic bring a much-needed freshness and flavor to this dish. There’s no better combination than this!
How To Make Leftover Ham and Cheese Penne
- First off, boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, saut�� the onions and garlic until they are translucent.
- Add the chopped ham and continue to cook on medium heat until lightly brown.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in a handful of shredded cheese at a time until it fully melts into the cream creating a smooth sauce.
- Finally, add the drained pasta into the pan and stir until the penne pasta is fully covered with the creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper before serving. Enjoy!
Tips For The Best Results
- To ensure the pasta doesn’t get overcooked, keep a close watch while boiling it.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of prepackaged cheese for the best creamy texture.
Storage Tips
- You can store the leftover penne in an airtight container, it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- This dish can also be frozen for up to one month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
A: Certainly! You could use fusilli, spaghetti or any other pasta of your choice, however, penne holds onto the sauce wonderfully.
Q: I don’t have leftover ham, what else can I use?
A: You could use sausages, bacon or even shredded chicken as alternatives.
Q: Can I use non-dairy alternatives for the cream and cheese?
A: Yes, but it might alter the taste and texture of the dish.
Q: Can we add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Of course! Adding vegetables like peas, corn or bell pepper would enhance the nutrition and taste.
Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely, kids would love the creamy, cheesy pasta.
Nutritional Facts of Leftover Ham and Cheese Penne
This dish approximately contains 480 calories per serving, with 30g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat.
As we wrap things up, this “Leftover Ham and Cheese Penne” ticks all the right boxes. It’s easy, it’s delicious, and it’s a creative way to use up that leftover ham. So folks, it’s time to give this recipe a shot and enjoy a cozy, comforting meal. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for extra oomph. Happy cooking!
0 Comments