Save This hearty cherry glazed ham breakfast pasta transforms traditional pasta into a morning delight that bridges the gap between sweet and savory. The unexpected combination of tender pasta glossy cherry-glazed ham and creamy scrambled eggs creates a memorable brunch centerpiece that feels both indulgent and comforting.
I stumbled upon this recipe when trying to use up leftover Easter ham and it's become our family's favorite special breakfast. My teenagers now request it before big exams claiming the combination of carbs and protein helps them focus!
Ingredients
- Spaghetti or fettuccine: adds the perfect base to carry the sweet and savory flavors while providing satisfying texture
- Cherry preserves: create a gorgeous glaze with natural sweetness look for preserves with visible fruit pieces for best flavor
- Balsamic vinegar: balances the sweetness with acidity choose aged balsamic for richer flavor
- Dijon mustard: adds depth and complexity to the glaze select a smooth variety for best texture
- Brown sugar: enhances the caramelization process dark brown provides more molasses notes
- Cooked ham: provides protein and savory balance thick cut works best for texture
- Fresh herbs: brighten the dish and add visual appeal choose chives for mild onion flavor or parsley for freshness
- Parmesan cheese: optional but adds wonderful umami notes look for freshly grated for best melting
Instructions
- Pasta Preparation:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous tablespoon of salt the water should taste like seawater. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until al dente usually 8 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture from the sauce. Once done drain thoroughly and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the remaining components.
- Cherry Glaze Creation:
- In a medium saucepan combine cherry preserves balsamic vinegar Dijon mustard and brown sugar over medium heat. Whisk continuously for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble gently around the edges. Allow it to simmer for another 1 to 2 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon. The consistency should be similar to warm honey not too thick or it will become too sticky when cooled.
- Ham Glazing:
- Add your diced ham directly to the warm cherry glaze in the saucepan. Gently fold the ham pieces until each one is thoroughly coated with the glossy mixture. Allow this to cook for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally. The ham will release some of its saltiness into the glaze creating the perfect sweet savory balance. The ham pieces should look shiny and caramelized when ready.
- Egg Preparation:
- In a medium bowl whisk eggs milk and a pinch each of salt and pepper until well combined but not overly frothy. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium low heat and add butter allowing it to coat the entire surface. Pour in the egg mixture and let it set for about 20 seconds before using a silicone spatula to gently pull the eggs from the edges toward the center. Continue this folding motion until eggs are just set but still glossy and creamy about 2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Final Assembly:
- In your largest mixing bowl combine the olive oil coated pasta with the cherry glazed ham including all the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Once combined carefully fold in the scrambled eggs using a lifting and turning motion rather than stirring to maintain their texture. The residual heat will warm everything perfectly.
- Serving:
- Portion the pasta into warmed bowls or plates working quickly while everything is still hot. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped herbs and offer grated Parmesan at the table for those who desire it. The contrast between the glossy red glaze fresh green herbs and yellow eggs creates a visually stunning presentation.
Save The cherry preserves are truly the star ingredient here. I discovered this combination when my grandmother served ham with cherry sauce during a holiday meal. The sweet tartness pairs surprisingly well with savory elements and reminds me of childhood breakfasts where maple syrup would inevitably touch the savory parts of my plate creating that magical sweet savory combination.
Make Ahead Options
This recipe has several components that can be prepared ahead of time for a stress free brunch. The cherry glaze can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently before adding the ham. The pasta can be cooked a day ahead rinsed in cold water and stored with a light coating of olive oil. When ready to serve reheat the pasta by plunging it into boiling water for just 30 seconds to warm through without overcooking. The eggs however should always be prepared fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. Turkey or chicken can replace ham for those avoiding pork. Raspberry or apricot preserves work beautifully in place of cherry for different flavor profiles. Plant based eggs and vegan butter can accommodate egg allergies or vegan diets. Gluten free pasta varieties substitute perfectly for wheat based options. For a lower sugar version use a no sugar added fruit spread and omit the brown sugar relying on the natural sweetness of the preserves. The recipe remains delicious with any of these modifications while maintaining its core appeal.
Cultural Context
This fusion dish draws inspiration from several culinary traditions. The combination of pasta and eggs recalls classic Italian carbonara but takes a decidedly American turn with the addition of sweet glazed ham. The cherry glaze itself has roots in European cuisine particularly German and Scandinavian traditions where fruit and meat pairings are common. This breakfast pasta concept also reflects the modern American brunch movement where traditional boundaries between breakfast and lunch dishes are intentionally blurred creating exciting new flavor combinations that satisfy at any time of day.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring Version use asparagus tips and fresh peas alongside the ham Summer Variation incorporate halved cherry tomatoes and basil instead of parsley Fall Edition add diced roasted butternut squash and sage leaves Winter Comfort swap the cherry preserves for orange marmalade and add toasted walnuts
Save This cherry glazed ham breakfast pasta is a delightful way to elevate your morning meal. Its unique blend of sweet and savory makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine or spaghetti hold the glaze and egg mixture well, but any long pasta can be used for a satisfying texture.
- → How do I achieve creamy scrambled eggs?
Whisk eggs with milk and cook slowly over medium-low heat, stirring gently until just set for the creamiest texture.
- → Can I substitute the ham?
Turkey ham or chicken ham are good alternatives for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- → What can I add for extra greens?
Sautéed spinach or fresh arugula stirred in at the end adds a pleasant touch of color and nutrition.
- → Is the dish gluten free?
Use gluten-free pasta and verify ham and cherry preserves ingredients to avoid gluten.
- → What wine pairs well?
Crisp sparkling wine or even a cold brew coffee complements the sweet-savory flavors perfectly.