Holiday ham is a showstopper, but let’s be honest, the real magic happens with the leftovers. That juicy, smoky, savory meat is incredibly versatile, making it the perfect starting point for cozy breakfasts, quick lunches, and hearty dinners. Whether you’ve got a bone-in spiral cut or a chunk of deli ham, don’t let it go to waste!
These easy leftover ham recipes turn yesterday’s centerpiece into today’s comfort food think creamy casseroles, cheesy soups, savory muffins, and even pizza. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients just smart, satisfying meals that make the most of what’s in your fridge.
1. Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
Description:
A creamy, comforting bake that combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheese—perfect for feeding a crowd or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 4 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together soup, sour cream, cheese, onions, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the potatoes and ham.
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
2. Leftover Ham Quiche
Description:
This buttery, savory pie is loaded with eggs, cheese, and chopped ham—delicious for brunch or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
- Optional: chopped spinach, bell peppers, or green onions
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fit crust into a pie dish and prick bottom with a fork.
- Sprinkle ham and cheese evenly over the crust.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings. Pour over filling.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until set. Cool slightly before slicing.
3. Ham Fried Rice
Description:
Fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights—this stir-fry turns ham and leftover rice into a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (cold)
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 eggs
- 2–3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add ham and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Push to the side and scramble the eggs in the pan.
- Add vegetables and rice, stir-fry until hot.
- Drizzle with soy sauce, stir in green onions, and serve.
4. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Description:
These mini baked sandwiches are melty, buttery, and full of flavor—a guaranteed party hit or easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 slider rolls (like Hawaiian rolls)
- 1 1/2 cups sliced ham
- 12 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice rolls in half (keep tops and bottoms together).
- Layer ham and cheese on the bottom halves, then place tops back on.
- Mix butter, mustard, and Worcestershire, then brush over the tops.
- Sprinkle with poppy seeds. Bake for 15–20 minutes until hot and melty.
5. Ham and Potato Soup
Description:
Creamy and comforting, this soup is loaded with tender potatoes and smoky ham—perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic.
- Add potatoes, ham, and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk or cream, heat through.
- Blend part of the soup for a creamy texture (optional). Season and serve.
6. Ham and Macaroni Bake
Description:
A creamy, cheesy twist on mac and cheese—with savory ham for extra heartiness.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk. Cook until thick.
- Stir in cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine cheese sauce, pasta, and ham.
- Pour into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Ham and Spinach Breakfast Wraps
Description:
Quick, protein-packed breakfast wraps filled with eggs, ham, spinach, and cheese—perfect for on-the-go mornings.
Ingredients:
- 4 large tortillas
- 1 cup diced ham
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Salt, pepper, and oil
Instructions:
- Scramble eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper in a skillet.
- Add spinach and ham, cook until wilted and heated.
- Place mixture in tortillas, sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll into wraps and toast in the skillet or press in a panini maker.
8. Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Description:
A cheesy, hearty casserole that brings together ham, broccoli, and pasta for a satisfying one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 1/2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
- 2 cups Alfredo or white sauce
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta al dente and drain.
- Combine pasta, ham, broccoli, sauce, and cheese.
- Pour into greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
9. Ham and Corn Chowder
Description:
Sweet corn and salty ham make a cozy, creamy chowder that’s both filling and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 1/2 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion until soft.
- Add potatoes, ham, corn, and broth. Simmer 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in milk or cream. Simmer 5 more minutes.
- Season and serve with bread or crackers.
10. Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups
Description:
Crescent dough rolled with ham and cheese, baked to golden perfection—an easy snack, lunch, or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 tube refrigerated crescent dough
- 8 slices ham
- 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
- Optional: honey mustard or ranch for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll dough and separate triangles.
- Place a slice of ham and cheese on each, then roll up.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm with dipping sauce.