Name: Asparagus Ham Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 oz cavatappi pasta (or any short pasta); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup cooked ham, diced; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Special Equipment:; Large skillet or sauté pan; Wooden spoon or spatula

Asparagus Ham Dinner

Some nights, you need a recipe that’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor—something that brings the family together around the table without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love this Asparagus Ham Dinner so much. It’s the perfect balance of hearty protein, fresh veggies, and cheesy pasta goodness, all cooked in one skillet.

I first made this dish on a hectic weeknight when I was staring into my fridge, trying to figure out what to do with leftover ham and some fresh asparagus. With a little improvisation, this meal came together beautifully, and from the very first bite, my family was hooked. My kids loved the cheesy, saucy pasta, my husband appreciated the balance of flavors, and I fell in love with how easy it was to prepare (and clean up!).

What I love most about this meal is its versatility. You can switch up the ingredients depending on what’s in your fridge—swap ham for chicken, use a different type of pasta, or toss in extra veggies. It’s foolproof, comforting, and perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t have the energy for an elaborate meal.

Now, let’s dive into the details so you can bring this warm, satisfying dinner to your own table.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Yes! If using frozen asparagus, let it thaw slightly and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the pan.

What type of pasta works best?
I love using cavatappi because it holds onto the sauce beautifully, but any short pasta like penne or rotini will work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook everything as directed, then store it in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can lighten it up by using whole wheat pasta, reducing the cheese, and opting for lean turkey ham instead of regular ham.

What You Need to Make Asparagus Ham Dinner

Ingredients:

8 oz cavatappi pasta (or any short pasta)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 cup cooked ham, diced

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Special Equipment:

Large skillet or sauté pan

Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Asparagus Ham Dinner

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Ham & Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in the asparagus, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Add the Tomatoes & Seasoning: Pour in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let simmer for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. Sprinkle in the mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and evenly distributed.

Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and top with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Asparagus Ham Dinner

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially when it comes to asparagus. Fresh asparagus adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to balance the savory ham.

Don’t overcook the pasta! Since it will absorb some of the sauce, slightly undercooking it ensures a perfect texture by the time everything comes together.

Swap ingredients to fit your taste. This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Try using leftover turkey, swapping asparagus for broccoli, or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Add extra cheese if desired. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan right before serving makes this dish even more indulgent.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was a hit with my whole family! The flavors were amazing, and I loved how easy it was to make.” – Amanda P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for a weeknight meal. I used rotini pasta, and it turned out great. Will definitely be making it again!” – Brian S.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Tasty and simple! I added some mushrooms for extra flavor. Next time, I might use a little more seasoning.” – Jessica R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved how fresh and vibrant this dish was! The ham and asparagus pair so well together.” – Laura T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Very good! I wish I had added a bit more cheese, but overall, the flavors were fantastic.” – Kevin M.

Printable Recipe

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