Leftover ham is a versatile ingredient that can transform simple meals into delightful dishes. Whether you’re looking to whip up a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner, there are countless ways to utilize that extra ham. This article will guide you through ten delicious recipes, alongside tips for storage and creative variations, ensuring you make the most of your leftover ham.
Essential Equipment for Leftover Ham Recipes
Before diving into the recipes, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here are some essentials that will make your cooking experience smoother:
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Sharp knives for slicing ham
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Baking dishes
- Pots for soups and sauces
- Measuring cups and spoons
Top 10 Leftover Ham Recipes
Recipe 1: Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines creamy potatoes with savory ham for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together potatoes, ham, cheese, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any cheese you prefer. For a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Recipe 2: Ham Fried Rice
This quick and easy dish is a great way to use leftover rice along with ham for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Green onions for garnish
Method
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Push the veggies to one side and scramble the eggs on the other side until fully cooked.
- Add the rice and ham, then pour in the soy sauce. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any vegetables you have on hand. For a vegetarian option, replace ham with tofu. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Recipe 3: Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta
This pasta dish is rich and creamy, making it a delightful dinner option.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Method
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine ham, peas, and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Substitutions: Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Recipe 4: Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata
This hearty breakfast dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer bread, ham, and cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour over the bread mixture.
- Bake for 45 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any bread you have available. For a vegetarian option, omit ham and add more vegetables. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Recipe 5: Classic Ham and Bean Soup
A warm and hearty soup that’s perfect for chilly days, using ham to add depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add ham, beans, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Notes
Substitutions: Use vegetable broth for a lighter option. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Recipe 6: Ham and Veggie Frittata
This frittata is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and ham for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, sauté vegetables until tender. Add ham, then pour the egg mixture over the top.
- Cook on the stove for a few minutes, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 20 minutes until set.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any vegetables you have on hand. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Recipe 7: Ham and Swiss Sliders
These sliders make for a quick lunch or snack, packed with flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns
- 2 cups cooked ham, sliced
- 12 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp poppy seeds (optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix melted butter and mustard. Brush the mixture onto the slider buns.
- Layer ham and cheese on the bottom half of the buns, then place the top half on.
- Sprinkle poppy seeds on top, if using. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Notes
Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken instead of ham. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Recipe 8: Ham and Broccoli Quiche
This quiche is a delightful option for brunch or a light dinner, featuring ham and broccoli.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Spread ham and broccoli evenly in the pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the filling is set and the top is golden.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any vegetables you prefer. The quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Recipe 9: Ham Macaroni Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for picnics or as a side dish, combining pasta with ham and veggies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, ham, celery, and bell pepper.
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir to combine. Chill before serving.
Notes
Substitutions: Add any vegetables you enjoy. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe 10: Ham and Noodle Bake
This baked dish is a comforting meal that combines ham with noodles and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, ham, soup, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
Substitutions: Use any cream soup you prefer. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.