Healthy Leftover Ham Pasta Peas

This Healthy Leftover Ham Pasta with Peas is a wonderful way to turn holiday leftovers into a fresh, satisfying meal. It combines tender chunks of ham, vibrant green peas, and a creamy mascarpone sauce tossed with pasta for a dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to make the most of your leftover ham without extra fuss.

I first cooked this recipe after Easter when I had a surplus of ham and mascarpone. It quickly became a go to comfort meal that my whole family loves and requests often when leftovers pile up.

Ingredients

• Pasta: One 375gram box of pasta such as fusilli, rigatoni, or spirals these shapes hold sauce beautifully
• Ham: Two cups of leftover ham cut into half inch cubes any leftover ham works well and cubed size ensures even heating
• Onion: One finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth when cooked until soft
• Chicken broth: Half a cup of chicken broth adds moisture and enhances the savory base
• Diced tomatoes: One 28ounce can of diced tomatoes with juices provides acidity and body go for good quality for better flavor
• Garlic: One and a half teaspoons minced garlic for aroma and mild heat
• Mascarpone: Half a cup of mascarpone cheese creamy and smooth it melts easily to make the sauce luscious choose fresh mascarpone for best results
• Peas: One 500gram bag of frozen green peas defrosted bright color and gentle sweetness that balances the ham
• Mushrooms: One 284milliliter can of mushrooms adds an earthy element canned versions save time
• Herbs: Half a teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil dried herbs add classic Italian flavor if using fresh double the amount for more punch
• Garnish: Parmesan cheese and fresh basil sprinkles parmesan adds salty nuttiness fresh basil livens up the final dish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta in plenty of boiling, salted water following package directions until al dente. Drain through a colander and set aside to keep warm. Cooking just until al dente ensures it preserves some bite when mixed with the sauce later.

Sauté the Ham and Onions:

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped ham and finely chopped onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent. This step builds a savory base, allowing the onions to release their sweetness and the ham to warm through.

Add Broth Tomatoes and Garlic:

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the skillet and bring moisture. Then add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the minced garlic. Stir to combine thoroughly. Allow this mixture to simmer briefly for the flavors to meld and the garlic to infuse the sauce.

Incorporate Mascarpone Cheese:

Lower the heat to medium low. Whisk in the mascarpone cheese gradually, stirring constantly until completely incorporated into the tomato and ham mixture. The sauce will become thick and creamy, coating the ingredients smoothly.

Add Peas and Mushrooms:

Add the defrosted green peas and canned mushrooms to the skillet. Stir gently and continue to cook for another five minutes. This cooks the peas just enough to keep their bright color and slight bite, while warming the mushrooms through.

Combine Pasta and Herbs:

Add the drained pasta back into the skillet with the ham and sauce mixture. Sprinkle in the oregano and basil and stir gently to combine all ingredients well and heat everything through. Alternatively, you can combine everything in the serving dish if preferred.

Garnish and Serve:

Just before serving, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top and scatter fresh basil leaves if available. These finishing touches add a burst of flavor and a lovely presentation.

Mascarpone cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it adds creaminess without overpowering the ham’s flavor. One memorable moment with this dish was serving it after a holiday when I was low on ingredients but wanted something comforting. It reminded me how leftovers can be a delicious gift rather than a chore.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to three months for quick future meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

If mascarpone is unavailable you can use cream cheese though the texture will be slightly tangier and less smooth. Any medium to large shaped pasta works well avoid long strands like spaghetti that don't hold the sauce evenly. Fresh tomatoes and mushrooms can replace canned versions but cook a little longer to soften fresh veggies. Fresh herbs doubled in quantity can substitute dried for brighter herbal notes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta alongside crusty garlic bread or buttery breadsticks for dipping in the sauce. For a lighter, lower carb option, a crisp vegetable salad or steamed green beans complement this creamy dish beautifully. Glazed carrots or roasted seasonal vegetables also pair nicely adding color and texture to your plate.

This quick leftover ham pasta is a creamy comforting meal that comes together fast. It reheats and freezes well for easy future dinners.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use different pasta types in this dish?

Yes, fusilli, penne, or rigatoni work best as they hold the creamy sauce well. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti for best results.

→ How long can cooked ham pasta be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

→ Can fresh vegetables replace canned or frozen ones?

Absolutely, fresh tomatoes and mushrooms can be used, but canned and frozen options save time and add convenience.

→ Is mascarpone cheese essential in this dish?

Mascarpone adds a smooth, creamy texture, but cream cheese can be a substitute if needed, though it is more tangy.

→ What herbs complement the flavors here?

Oregano and basil provide a classic, aromatic touch that enhances the savory notes of ham and tomato.