Looking for tasty ways to use up your leftover ham? Whether it’s from a holiday feast or a special dinner, it’s always a challenge to figure out how to make the most of the leftovers. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious recipes that can transform your ham into mouth-watering meals.
Tired of the same old sandwiches and soups? This article will introduce 35 scrumptious recipes that will inspire you to get creative with your leftover ham. From breakfast to dinner, you’ll discover versatile and easy-to-make dishes that the whole family will enjoy.
1) Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a perfect dish for using leftover ham. It’s easy to make and great for feeding a crowd.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix hash browns, salt, pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced ham.
Fold in some cream cheese to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Pour this egg mixture over the ham and hash browns.
You can also add some chopped bell pepper for extra flavor. Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top and cooked through.
Let it sit for a few minutes before cutting. It’s an easy and delicious breakfast option everyone will love.
2) Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and potato soup is a comforting way to use up leftover ham. You’ll need basic ingredients like potatoes, ham, celery, carrots, and onions.
First, chop your vegetables and ham into small pieces. Heat some butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until they’re soft.
Next, add the ham and potatoes to the pot. Pour in enough water or chicken broth to cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices. You can also add some minced garlic for extra flavor. If you want a creamier soup, stir in some milk or heavy cream before serving.
Serve your ham and potato soup hot. It’s great with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy!
3) Ham and Pineapple Pizza
For a tasty twist on classic pizza, try making ham and pineapple pizza. Start by preparing your pizza dough. You can use store-bought or homemade dough.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface, forming a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). While the oven heats, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Add diced pieces of ham and pineapple chunks on top of the cheese. You can use canned or fresh pineapple, depending on what you have available.
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious ham and pineapple pizza with your family or friends!
4) Ham and Bean Soup
If you have leftover ham, you can make a tasty Ham and Bean Soup. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook them until the onions are soft.
Next, add garlic, diced ham, and a ham bone if you have one. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth.
If you don’t have a ham bone, it’s okay to skip it. Add your choice of beans, such as navy or cannellini beans.
Stir in bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let the soup cook for around two hours. This will allow the flavors to blend well.
Once done, remove the ham bone (if used) and take off any remaining meat. Add this meat back into the soup.
Serve your Ham and Bean Soup hot with a side of bread or cornbread for a comforting meal.
5) Ham and Cheese Omelette
A ham and cheese omelette is a classic, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Start by heating oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook until it’s browned and crispy.
In a bowl, beat together eggs, salt, and pepper. You can also add milk or cream to make the omelette fluffier. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet.
Let it cook for about 30 seconds without stirring. Then, gently lift the edges with a spatula so that the uncooked egg flows underneath.
Once the omelette starts to set but is still slightly runny on top, sprinkle shredded cheese over it. Cheddar or Swiss work well.
Fold the omelette in half and let it cook for another minute until the cheese melts. Slide it onto a plate and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. This omelette is a simple way to make your leftover ham shine. Enjoy!
6) Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Ham and egg breakfast muffins are a quick and easy way to start your morning. They are a great use of leftover ham and perfect for busy days.
To make them, you’ll need eggs, milk, shredded cheese, ham, and your choice of vegetables like green onions or broccoli.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and any spices you like. Stir in the ham, cheese, and vegetables.
Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the mixture. You can use an ice cream scoop to keep things even.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The muffins are ready when the eggs are set and start to pull away from the sides of the tin. Let them cool before removing.
These muffins are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Grab one on your way out the door for a tasty and nutritious breakfast.
7) Ham and Cheddar Scones
Ham and Cheddar Scones are perfect for using up leftover ham. These savory treats make a great breakfast or snack. They’re easy to prepare and bake quickly.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and a bit of salt. Add grated cheddar cheese and chopped ham.
Next, grate frozen butter and mix it into the flour mixture until it looks like pea-sized crumbs. Stir in some buttermilk to form a dough. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times.
Shape the dough into an 8-inch circle, about an inch thick. Use a knife to cut the dough into 8 wedges. Place the wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the scones for 18-20 minutes until they are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy scones with a bit of butter or on their own.
8) Ham Fried Rice
Ham fried rice is a tasty way to use leftover ham. It’s quick, easy, and can be ready in about 20 minutes.
Start by heating some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add chopped ham, diced onions, peas, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Slide the veggies and ham to one side. Pour beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble them until they are fully cooked.
Then, mix the eggs with the veggies and ham. Add cold, cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything together and cook until the rice is heated through and a little crispy.
Finish with a splash of soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!
9) Ham and Swiss Sliders
Ham and Swiss Sliders are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
Cut a package of dinner rolls in half horizontally, keeping them together as a slab. Place the bottom half in the baking dish. Layer slices of ham and Swiss cheese over the rolls.
Spread Dijon mustard on the inside of the top half of the rolls. Once spread, place the top half over the ham and cheese layers.
In a small bowl, melt butter and mix in brown sugar, poppy seeds, minced onion, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the assembled sliders evenly.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, remove from the oven and let the sliders cool slightly before cutting them. Ham and Swiss Sliders are best served warm, making them an ideal appetizer or party snack.
10) Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta
Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta is a quick and delicious way to use up leftover ham.
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Next, whisk in flour and cook until lightly browned. Gradually add in chicken broth, stirring constantly. Add some thyme and basil for flavor.
Pour in some heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens.
Add diced ham and cooked peas to the skillet. Mix well to combine. Once the pasta is ready, drain and add it to the sauce. Toss everything together.
You can finish with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy your leftover ham.
11) Ham and Broccoli Quiche
Ham and broccoli quiche is an excellent way to use leftover ham. It’s simple to make and full of flavor.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare a pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
Layer the ham, cheese, and broccoli in the pie crust. This combines the salty ham, creamy cheese, and crunchy broccoli.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the pie crust.
Bake the quiche in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the filling set.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious ham and broccoli quiche!
12) Ham Tetrazzini
Ham Tetrazzini is a great way to use up leftover ham. Start by cooking spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain the spaghetti but do not rinse it. This helps the sauce stick better.
Next, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and chopped onions. Cook until the mushrooms are lightly browned and the onions are soft.
Stir in the diced ham and cook for a few minutes until it’s golden and fragrant. Remove the ham and set it aside. Add more butter if necessary and make a roux by stirring in flour until smooth.
Slowly add milk and chicken stock, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Return the ham to the skillet along with frozen peas and pimentos. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Finally, mix in the cooked spaghetti and pour everything into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan on top. Bake at 350ºF until bubbly and golden.
Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and a great way to transform your leftover ham into a delicious new meal.
13) Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese
Ham and apple grilled cheese sandwiches are a fantastic way to use leftover ham. They are both sweet and savory.
Begin by slicing some fresh apples thinly. You can use any variety, but Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well.
Take two slices of bread and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice.
On the unbuttered side, place some slices of ham. Arrange the apple slices on top of the ham.
Next, add your choice of cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, or Gouda are great options. They melt nicely and complement the flavors of the ham and apples.
Put the sandwich together, buttered sides facing out. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Flip the sandwich carefully to avoid spilling the contents. When both sides are golden and the cheese has melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet.
Let it cool slightly before slicing in half. Ham and apple grilled cheese is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic sandwich!
14) Ham and Corn Chowder
Ham and Corn Chowder is a great way to use up your leftover ham. This hearty and creamy soup is perfect for chilly days.
Start by cooking some bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon but keep the fat in the pot. Sauté onions and celery in the bacon fat. This will add lots of flavor.
Next, add flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking. Bring it to a boil. Add your chopped potatoes and let it simmer until they are tender.
Once the potatoes are soft, add the corn and ham to the pot. Let it cook for a few more minutes. Make sure everything is heated through.
Before serving, you can add heavy cream and the crispy bacon pieces back into the chowder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This chowder is rich and filling. It’s an easy way to enjoy your leftover ham. Plus, it’s packed with flavor!
15) Ham Stuffed Peppers
Ham stuffed peppers are a great way to use your leftover ham. They are tasty and easy to make.
Start by cutting the tops off red, green, or yellow bell peppers. Clean out the seeds and set aside. Dice the tops of the peppers and mix them with ham, cooked rice, and your favorite veggies.
In a large bowl, combine the diced peppers, ham, and rice with some cheese and seasonings like basil or paprika. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
Fill each pepper half with the mixture until they are full. Place them in a baking dish and add a bit of water or broth to the bottom to keep them moist while baking.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the tops get a little crispy.
Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. They make a nutritious and filling meal that the whole family will enjoy.
16) Ham and Spinach Frittata
A Ham and Spinach Frittata is a great way to use leftover ham. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for any meal of the day.
Start by preheating your oven. Cook the ham and spinach in an oven-proof pan until the spinach wilts.
Whisk together eggs and milk, then pour this mixture over the ham and spinach in the pan. Add some cheese on top for added flavor.
Bake until the eggs are set, usually about 10 to 12 minutes. For a crispy top, broil for a couple of minutes at the end.
Let the frittata cool for about 5 minutes before cutting into slices and serving. This makes it easier to handle and enhances the flavors. Enjoy!
17) Ham and Potato Gratin
Ham and Potato Gratin is a comforting and delicious way to use leftover ham. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Peel and slice the potatoes thinly. You can microwave the slices with a bit of water to soften them up.
In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes and diced ham.
Create a simple sauce by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Add flour to the melted butter, whisking constantly to make a roux. Slowly add milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a bit of mustard for flavor. Pour the sauce over the layered ham and potatoes. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the top. Let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
18) Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Ham and cheese stuffed chicken is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You’ll need chicken breasts, ham slices, and your favorite cheese.
To start, cut a horizontal slit in the chicken breasts to form a pocket. Stuff each pocket with a slice of ham and cheese.
Season the stuffed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken until browned on both sides. Then, transfer to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until cooked through.
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple salad. It’s an easy and satisfying meal using leftover ham.
19) Ham and Spinach Lasagna
Ham and Spinach Lasagna is a great way to use leftover ham. This recipe blends savory ham, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella cheese.
Start by squeezing excess water out of the spinach and roughly chopping it. This helps avoid a watery dish.
In a large saucepan, cook spinach and leeks until soft. Season as needed.
Assemble the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish. Next, add a layer of lasagna noodles.
Top with a third of the ham and mozzarella. Repeat these layers twice.
Bake the lasagna until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The cheese should be melted, and the lasagna layers should be well-cooked.
It’s perfect for a family dinner and works well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
20) Ham, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Burritos
Ham, egg, and cheese breakfast burritos are a quick and tasty way to start your day. They make use of leftover ham, turning it into a flavorful breakfast option.
To make these burritos, start by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add beaten eggs and cook until they’re just set, making sure to stir constantly.
Next, add diced ham and half of the shredded cheese to the eggs. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
Warm up your tortillas. Place some of the egg, ham, and cheese mixture in the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas, folding in the sides to keep the filling secure.
For an extra touch, you can add some salsa before wrapping the burritos. This adds a nice kick of flavor.
These burritos can be made in large batches and frozen for a convenient breakfast later. Just wrap each burrito in aluminum foil and place them in a resealable plastic bag.
To reheat, unwrap the foil, wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel, and microwave for a few minutes until warm. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!
21) Baked Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups
Baked Ham and Cheese Roll-Ups are a simple and tasty way to use leftover ham.
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a baking sheet.
Roll out your crescent dough into a rectangle. It should be about 13×18 inches. Lay slices of ham and cheese on the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other. Pinch the ends together to seal it. Place the roll with the seam facing down in the baking dish.
Bake for around 10-12 minutes until the tops turn golden brown. These roll-ups can be a fun snack or an easy lunch.
22) Ham and Asparagus Risotto
Ham and asparagus risotto is an easy and tasty way to use leftover ham. This dish combines the flavors of tender asparagus, savory ham, and creamy arborio rice.
Start by coating a medium saucepan with cooking spray, and place it over medium heat. Add mushrooms, green onions, and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes.
Next, add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps toasting the rice lightly for extra flavor.
Begin adding warm broth, 1/2 cup at a time. Stir constantly until the liquid is almost absorbed before adding more broth.
Make sure your broth is kept warm to help the rice cook evenly. Combine ham and asparagus toward the end of your cooking process. Allow it to heat through.
Your risotto is ready when it’s creamy and the rice is tender. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of ham and asparagus.
23) Ham and Tomato Pasta Bake
Ham and tomato pasta bake is a great way to use leftover ham. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for a family dinner. You start by cooking your favorite pasta until it’s just tender. Penne or rotini work well for this dish.
Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and cook until they soften. Stir in diced ham and let it cook for a couple of minutes. Pour in canned tomato purée and bring it to a simmer.
Mix your cooked pasta with the tomato sauce and ham mixture. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cheddar or mozzarella are both good choices.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. This dish is sure to be a hit and a tasty way to enjoy your leftover ham.
24) Ham and Bean Casserole
Ham and bean casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover ham. You only need a few basic ingredients, making it a convenient choice for a family meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced ham, canned white beans, and your favorite vegetables, like carrots and celery.
Next, add some chicken broth and spices such as thyme and pepper for flavor. Mix everything well and then transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
Sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden.
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s filling, nutritious, and a great way to utilize your leftover ham.
25) Ham and Veggie Skillet
Cooking a Ham and Veggie Skillet is a tasty way to use leftover ham. Begin by heating a large pan over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Dice your leftover ham into bite-sized pieces. Combine it with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can use other veggies too, depending on what you have on hand.
Toss the ham and veggies into the heated pan. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. You want the ham to brown slightly and the vegetables to become tender.
Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. Garlic powder or Italian seasoning works well. Cook for around 10-15 minutes, making sure everything is well-mixed and heated through.
This Ham and Veggie Skillet is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Serve it as is or over rice or noodles for a more filling meal.
26) Ham and Pineapple Kabobs
Ham and pineapple kabobs are a delightful way to enjoy your leftover ham.
Start by cutting your cooked ham into 1-inch cubes. Do the same with fresh pineapple chunks. If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain the pieces well.
Thread the ham and pineapple onto skewers. Alternate between ham and pineapple to balance flavors. You can add chunks of bell pepper or onion for variety.
For a glaze, mix brown sugar, vinegar, vegetable oil, and mustard in a bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the kabobs before grilling or baking.
Preheat your grill to high heat. If you prefer baking, set the oven to 425°F. Cook the kabobs, turning frequently and basting with the glaze. This helps caramelize the sugar and enhances the taste.
Serve the kabobs hot. They make a great appetizer or main dish for any meal.
27) Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Ham and cheese pinwheels are a quick and tasty way to use up leftover ham. They make perfect snacks, appetizers, or even a light meal.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray. Lay out a sheet of pizza dough or crescent roll dough on a floured surface.
Layer the dough with slices of ham and cheese, making sure to cover the whole sheet. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, creating a log shape.
Slice the log into even pieces, about 1 inch thick. Place these slices on the prepared baking dish, keeping them slightly apart.
Bake the pinwheels for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool a bit before serving. These pinwheels are delicious warm and can be served with a side of ranch dressing or mustard for dipping.
28) Ham and Pea Fried Rice
Ham and Pea Fried Rice is a simple and tasty way to use up leftover ham.
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a little sesame oil. Toss in chopped white onion, peas, and carrots. Sauté until they are tender.
Push the veggies to one side and pour beaten eggs on the other side. Use a spatula to scramble the eggs.
Next, add your chopped ham to the skillet. Stir everything together. Add cooked rice to the mix. Stir until the rice is heated through.
Pour in some soy sauce for flavor. Mix well so the soy sauce coats all the ingredients evenly.
Cook for a few more minutes, stirring frequently. Once everything is hot and evenly mixed, your Ham and Pea Fried Rice is ready to serve. Enjoy with extra soy sauce if you like.
29) Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash is a simple and tasty dish you can make with leftover ham.
First, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. When the oil is hot, toss in the diced sweet potatoes. Season with a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the sweet potatoes in the oil.
Allow the sweet potatoes to cook until they are soft and slightly browned around the edges. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Next, add your chopped ham, onions, and red peppers. Stir everything together. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the onions and peppers are softened.
To finish, you can season with your favorite spices. Spice blends like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper work great in this dish.
Serve your Ham and Sweet Potato Hash hot. It makes a great breakfast or brunch option. Enjoy the mix of sweet and savory flavors!
30) Ham and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Ham and cheese stuffed mushrooms make for a fantastic appetizer. They’re simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
First, clean your mushrooms with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking them in water as this can make them soggy. Remove the stems and set aside.
Melt butter in a pan and sauté chopped onions and garlic until they’re soft. Add the chopped mushroom stems and diced ham. Cook until the juices evaporate.
Next, mix the cooked ingredients with shredded cheese. You can use cheddar or mozzarella for a great taste. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps.
Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
These appetizers are perfect for parties or quick snacks. They offer a delicious way to use any leftover ham you might have. Enjoy!
31) Ham Salad Sandwiches
Ham salad sandwiches are a simple and tasty way to use up leftover ham.
To make the ham salad, combine diced or ground ham with mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and a bit of mustard. You might also add chopped onions, celery, or hard-boiled eggs for extra crunch and flavor.
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. If the mixture seems a bit dry, add a little more mayonnaise.
Let the ham salad chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
To assemble the sandwiches, spread a layer of the ham salad on one half of a roll or bread slice. Add some lettuce, tomato, or pickles if you like.
Top it with the other half of the roll or bread and your sandwich is ready to eat.
These sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or an easy snack.
You can also pack them for a picnic or a school lunch. They are sure to be a hit with everyone!
32) Ham and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ham and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to use up leftover ham.
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chopped broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and tender.
Next, add your diced ham and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. This ensures the ham is heated through and slightly crisp.
For added flavor, you can throw in minced garlic and a splash of soy sauce.
Serve this dish over cooked rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the stir-fry for extra color and nutrition.
Quick, easy, and delicious. This ham and broccoli stir-fry is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
33) Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are a simple and tasty way to use leftover ham. They make a great snack or light meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Open a tube of crescent roll dough and separate the triangles.
Place a slice of ham on the wider end of each triangle. Add half a slice of cheese on top of the ham. Roll the dough starting from the wide end and work your way to the point.
Place each roll onto the baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake the rolls for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown.
These rolls can be served warm. They are great for quick lunches or party appetizers.
34) Ham and Cornbread Casserole
Ham and cornbread casserole is a comforting dish that’s perfect for using leftover ham. The sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory ham.
To make this dish, you start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Grease a 3-quart baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together condensed soups and milk until smooth.
Add your diced ham to the mixture and stir well. Spread this ham mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare your cornbread batter and spread half of it over the ham mixture.
Top with shredded cheese for a creamy, melty layer. Then, spread the remaining cornbread batter on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Serve your ham and cornbread casserole with a simple side salad or green beans.
This dish is hearty and flavorful, making it a family favorite.
35) Ham and Egg Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a Ham and Egg Breakfast Bowl, a hearty and delicious morning meal. This bowl combines savory ham, fluffy scrambled eggs, and fresh veggies.
Chop your leftover ham into small pieces. Cook it in a pan until slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture to your bowl.
Scramble some eggs until they are light and fluffy. Season them with a bit of salt and pepper.
Add diced tomatoes, green onions, and spinach to the pan. Let the veggies soften just a bit before combining them with the eggs and ham.
Place a portion of cooked rice or quinoa in a bowl. Top it with your ham and egg mixture.
Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, if you like. The cheese will melt and make the dish even more delicious.
Enjoy your Ham and Egg Breakfast Bowl hot. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover ham and start your day right.
Nutritional Benefits of Leftover Ham
Leftover ham can offer valuable nutrition, including high protein content and a variety of important vitamins and minerals.
Protein Content
Ham is an excellent source of protein. One serving of ham, approximately 3 ounces, can provide around 19 grams of protein. This makes it a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles. It’s also vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. Additionally, protein can help you feel full, which may aid in weight management.
Vitamins and Minerals
Ham is rich in several essential vitamins and minerals. Notably, it contains high levels of vitamin B6 and B12. These vitamins are crucial for brain health and energy production.
Ham also provides significant amounts of iron and zinc. Iron helps in the formation of red blood cells, while zinc supports the immune system. Furthermore, you’ll find some potassium and phosphorus, which are important for heart health and bone strength.
Proper Storage and Handling of Leftover Ham
Keep your leftover ham fresh and safe to eat by following these storage and handling guidelines. Proper refrigeration and freezing methods will help maintain the ham’s quality and taste.
Refrigeration Guidelines
After serving, cool your leftover ham as quickly as possible. Place it in the refrigerator within two hours to avoid bacterial growth. Use airtight containers, wrapping the ham tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Store ham at 40°F (4°C) or colder. Use it within 3-5 days to ensure the best taste and safety. Check for any signs of spoilage like a sour smell or slimy texture before consuming.
Label the containers with the date of storage so you can keep track of how long the ham has been in the fridge. This way, you won’t accidentally eat outdated leftovers.
Freezing Tips
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the ham in heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper. Alternatively, use freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
Set your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) or below. Frozen ham can last up to 2 months while retaining its best quality. When you are ready to use the ham, thaw it in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
Date and label the packages before storing them in the freezer. Proper labeling helps you use the oldest items first and maintain the best quality in your meals.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Ham
Using leftover ham can lead to delicious and versatile dishes. Think of hearty breakfasts, flavorful lunches, easy dinners, and quick snacks to keep everyone happy.
Breakfast Ideas
Start your day right with some tasty breakfast options. Ham and cheese waffles combine fluffy waffles with savory ham and melty cheese for a filling meal. Ham and veggie omelets are another great choice; just mix diced ham with your favorite veggies and a sprinkle of cheese.
If you prefer something heartier, a ham and potato breakfast casserole is perfect. Layer thinly sliced potatoes, ham, and onions, then bake with eggs and cheese. For a sweet and savory twist, try apple butter biscuit breakfast bake—blend ham with apple butter in a biscuit mix for a festive treat.
Lunch and Dinner Options
For lunch, ham and split pea soup is a classic. Combining the rich flavor of ham with hearty split peas creates a comforting bowl. Another option is a ham and veggie casserole: blend ham with a variety of vegetables, top with a crunchy layer, and bake until bubbly.
Ham-stuffed bell peppers make a nutritious choice for dinner. Fill bell peppers with a blend of ham, rice, and seasonings, then bake. If you need a quick meal, try a simple ham and cheese sandwich—always a hit. For pasta lovers, a ham and cheese pasta bake combines the best of both worlds in one dish.
Snacks and Appetizers
Looking for light bites? Ham and cheese sliders are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Use small rolls, layer with ham, cheese, and a bit of mustard for a tasty snack.
Another idea is ham and pickle roll-ups—spread cream cheese on slices of ham, wrap around a pickle, and slice into bite-sized portions. Ham and cheese pinwheels are also a great option; roll out puff pastry, add ham and cheese, then bake until golden.
These snacks are perfect for any time you need a quick and tasty bite.
