4cupsleftover ham, cubedsmokey ham lends the best flavor
16ouncesPenne or RigatoniUse your favorite pasta
1/4cupolive oil
3Tablespoonsbutter
1 largesweet bell pepper, finely choppedYellow or red peppers are sweetest
1medonion, finely chopped
4clovesgarlic, minced
1/4cupminced parsley
1-2medzucchini, chopped
1-1/2tspsaltmay need to alter dependng on the saltiness of your ham
1/2-1tspred, pepper flakesalter depending to your love of spicy foods
2tspdried, basil
1-1/2tspdried, oregano
1/2cupshredded, Parmesan Cheese
3cupheavy, whipping cream
Instructions
Heat a pot of water and cook pasta according to package directions, drain.
Meanwhile in a large skillet, heat oil and butter or medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, zucchini, ham, red pepper. Cook and stir approximately 10 minutes or until ham is browned and vegetables are tender. Add the garlic and herbs and cook an additional 3 minutes.
Then, add in heavy cream and Parmesan Cheese, stir well. After cream and cheese is incorporated into the vegetable and ham, add in cooked pasta and toss to coat. Serve topped with additional Parmesan Cheese to taste.
Notes
*Use any pasta you love. I usually use a pasta that is tubular or has texture, so that the creamy, sauce clings to it better.*Smokey ham adds an amazing flavor to this dish, however use any leftover ham you have on hand.*You may have to alter the salt to the sauce based on how salty your ham and parmesan cheese are.*If you have leftover vegetables, you can alter the veg that you add to this. I used zucchini and bell pepper because I had in on hand. I have used frozen peas and corn as well with a wonderful result.