Spirelle And Ham Skillet
A hearty skillet dish combining tender macaroni, savory ham, and rich tomato sauce, highlighted with fresh parsley—perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and ham in hot oil until ham is browned.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Cook on low heat for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Add cheese, parsley, and cooked macaroni to the skillet.
- Serve at once.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a bit of cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end. You can substitute spirelle macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand. This dish is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables, so feel free to toss in some bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Hootenanny Pancakes for a fun brunch-style gathering. For a fresh touch, sprinkle additional parsley on top just before serving, or add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spirelle And Ham Skillet contains roughly 1182 calories, with 39g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (85% of the Daily Value), protein (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2794mg per serving (121% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen ham instead of cooked ham?
Yes, you can use frozen ham, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Dice it into small pieces, and you might need to cook it a little longer to ensure it's heated through. This recipe is flexible, making it a great option for using up what you have on hand.
What type of cheese works best with this dish?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works wonderfully, providing both flavor and creaminess. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Just remember to add cheese at the end, allowing it to melt into the dish for a delicious finish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this a vegetarian recipe, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also add some white beans for protein. The canned tomatoes and seasonings will still provide plenty of flavor, making it a satisfying meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).