Looking for a meal that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion? Look no further than ham and pasta! This classic combination is a staple in many households, and for good reason. Ham adds a salty, savory element to pasta dishes, while the carbs provide a comforting base for a wide range of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, there’s a ham and pasta recipe out there that’s sure to satisfy.
From creamy sauces to bold, spicy flavors, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of ham and pasta. From comforting casseroles to light and bright salads, these dishes are perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions like holidays and birthdays.
Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the savory taste of ham, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook until thawed and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and dried thyme. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, ham and pea mixture, salt, and pepper in a serving bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Ham and Mushroom Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of garlic butter, the savory flavor of ham, and the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms. A simple yet satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
– 2 cups diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or ham steak)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add ham to the skillet and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ham and Pasta Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of baked ham, pasta, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 2 cups cooked ham (diced)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ham, shredded cheddar cheese, grated mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish coated with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Spinach Alfredo Pasta
Ham and Spinach Alfredo Pasta Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that combines the richness of ham, spinach, and parmesan cheese with the creaminess of a homemade alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
- 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions, set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine diced ham and garlic powder. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
- Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large serving dish, combine cooked pasta, ham mixture, and alfredo sauce. Toss until well combined. Serve hot, topped with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Ham and Tomato Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This one-pot pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, cooked ham, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pot, stirring to coat with the tomato mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Pasta Salad
This pasta salad combines the flavors of savory ham, crunchy broccoli, and creamy dressing for a satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Combine cooked pasta, ham, and broccoli in a large bowl. Pour dressing over the top and toss until coated.
5. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Ham and Pasta Skillet
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy Cajun ham and pasta skillet recipe! A delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bow tie)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen bell peppers (any color), thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine ham, Cajun seasoning, paprika, chicken broth, heavy cream, onion, garlic, and bell peppers.
3. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes or until the ham is browned and the veggies are tender.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Tortellini Bake
This satisfying casserole combines the flavors of ham, cheese, and tortellini for a delicious weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (20 oz) package frozen cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, combine ham, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until heated through.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked tortellini in an even layer.
5. Pour the ham and cream mixture over the tortellini, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Dot the top with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Ham and Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ham and garlic with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add diced ham to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic.
4. Pour in lemon juice and stir to coat ham and garlic evenly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the ham mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the richness of ham, the creaminess of pesto, and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 6 slices of cooked ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked ham, pesto sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the ham-pesto mixture until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory, and fresh take on the classic Italian dish. This Ham and Asparagus Carbonara combines the richness of ham and parmesan cheese with the brightness of asparagus and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 oz diced cooked ham
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus in a little oil until tender, about 5 minutes. Add diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture and toss until well coated. Add some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Combine asparagus and ham mixture with spaghetti. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Corn Pasta with Parmesan
This recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the savory flavors of ham and parmesan, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced ham and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, ham-corn mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Bell Pepper Pasta Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick pasta dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add bell peppers and cooked ham. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until bell peppers are tender-crisp.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the stir-fry mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Zucchini Pasta Toss
This recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and zucchini with the comfort of pasta for a satisfying meal. With only 20 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchinis and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add diced ham, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss with zucchini mixture until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ham and Black Bean Pasta Salad
A flavorful and satisfying salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Ham and Black Bean Pasta Salad combines the savory goodness of ham with the creamy texture of black beans and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked ham, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and Dijon mustard. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines the savory flavors of ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a comforting casserole.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced sweet potatoes and cooked ham to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sweet potato mixture, and grated cheese in a baking dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Olive Pasta with Feta
This hearty pasta dish combines the savory flavors of ham, olives, and feta cheese, making it a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. The salty notes from the ham and feta are balanced by the brininess of the olives, all tied together with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced olives and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the ham and olives. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Crumbling the feta cheese into small pieces, sprinkle it over the top of the pasta mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Caramelized Onion Pasta
A sweet and savory pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with the salty goodness of ham. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the diced ham, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and ham-onion mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Artichoke Pasta in White Wine Sauce
This recipe combines the savory flavors of ham, artichokes, and mushrooms with a rich white wine sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting serving of pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add ham, artichoke hearts, white wine, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let sauce cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
A flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that combines the savory taste of ham with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup roasted red peppers (see note), sliced
– 4 oz. diced cooked ham
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced red peppers and cooked ham to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the pepper-ham mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious ham and pasta recipes perfect for every occasion! From creamy and comforting to spicy and savory, there’s something for everyone. Discover dishes like Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta, Garlic Butter Ham and Mushroom Pasta, Cheesy Baked Ham and Pasta Casserole, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
