After the holiday feast, you’re often left with plenty of leftover ham that needs to be used up.
Instead of serving the same meal again, transform your ham into entirely new dishes that your family will love.
These 21 leftover ham recipes offer delicious ways to repurpose your ham into soups, casseroles, breakfast dishes, and more.
You’ll find options for every meal of the day, from hearty ham and potato soup to quick pasta dishes that make weeknight dinners easy.
With these recipes, your leftovers will become meals everyone looks forward to eating.
1. Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole is the perfect way to use your leftover ham.
It combines tender potatoes, savory ham chunks, and melty cheese in every bite.
The dish features a creamy sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
You can make it with hash browns or diced potatoes depending on what you have on hand.
It’s versatile enough for any meal – serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Your family will appreciate this hearty, satisfying dish after a holiday meal.
Preparation is simple. Just layer the ingredients, pour the sauce over top, and bake until golden and bubbly.
It’s a time-saving solution that transforms your leftovers into something new and delicious.
2. Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake is a perfect way to use leftover ham. This comfort food dish combines pasta, tender broccoli, and diced ham in a creamy cheese sauce.
You can have this warming casserole on the table in about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Simply cook pasta and broccoli, then combine with ham and cheese sauce in an ovenproof dish.
The dish is topped with crispy bread crumbs before baking until golden and bubbly. It’s a family-friendly meal that transforms your leftover ham into something new and delicious.
3. Split Pea and Ham Soup
Split Pea and Ham Soup is a perfect way to use your leftover Easter ham. This classic one-pot meal combines dried green split peas with ham for a hearty, comforting dish.
The basic recipe includes split peas, onions, and ham, but you can add carrots and potatoes for more flavor and texture.
A meaty ham bone works best, but ham hocks or cubed leftover ham will do the job too.
This soup is ideal for cold days and tastes even better the next day. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the delicious broth.
4. Savory Ham and Cheese Scones
These flaky, buttery scones are a perfect way to use your leftover ham. They combine smoky ham chunks with savory cheese for a delicious breakfast or snack option.
To make them, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, baking powder, butter, and of course, your leftover ham and cheese.
The secret is keeping the ingredients cold while preparing the dough.
These scones bake up with crisp-crumbly edges and a soft interior. They’re not sweet like traditional scones but loaded with satisfying savory flavors instead.
You can enjoy them warm from the oven or reheat them later. They pair wonderfully with soup or make a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
5. Ham Fried Rice
Ham fried rice turns your leftover ham into a quick, tasty meal. It combines diced ham with stir-fried vegetables and rice for a simple dinner option.
You can use green onions, peas, carrots, and bean sprouts as the vegetables. Adding an egg and soy sauce gives it that classic fried rice flavor.
The best part is that this dish only takes about 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need to use up ham from a previous meal.
Some recipes even include pineapple for a sweet twist. This addition pairs well with the salty ham flavor.
6. Ham and Cheese Stuffed Biscuits
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Biscuits are a perfect way to use leftover ham. They combine smoky ham chunks with melted cheese inside garlic butter biscuits.
You can make these easily with canned biscuits.
Simply flatten each biscuit, add ham and cheese in the center, then fold and seal the edges.
These savory treats work well for breakfast alongside scrambled eggs. They’re also great with soup for lunch or dinner.
For a faster option, you can roll out the dough, layer with Swiss cheese and ham, then roll it up tightly and slice.
Either method creates a delicious way to transform your leftover ham into something new.
7. Ham and Swiss Sandwiches
Ham and Swiss sandwiches are a classic option for using leftover ham. The combination of savory ham with creamy Swiss cheese creates a perfect flavor balance.
You can make these sandwiches in many ways.
Try them on Hawaiian rolls for sweet contrast, or make them on sturdy whole grain bread for extra texture.
For a special treat, make a Monte Cristo by dipping your ham and Swiss sandwich in egg batter and frying it. Some versions even get dusted with powdered sugar.
Want something different? Add sliced pear to your ham and Swiss sandwich for a sweet and savory combination that makes your leftover ham feel brand new.
8. Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is a perfect way to use up leftover ham. This creamy soup combines salty ham chunks with soft potatoes and sweet corn.
The chowder is quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a filling dinner option.
The flavors blend wonderfully – the saltiness of the ham balances with the sweetness of the corn. For extra richness, you can top your bowl with cheese before serving.
This comforting soup works well year-round and reheats beautifully for lunches.
9. Ham and Egg Breakfast Skillet
A ham and egg breakfast skillet is a fantastic way to use leftover ham. Simply dice your ham and toss it into a hot skillet with some potatoes, peppers, and onions.
Once the vegetables are tender, create small wells in the mixture and crack eggs directly into them. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs reach your preferred doneness.
Top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving. This one-pan meal comes together in about 20 minutes and offers a hearty start to your day.
You can customize this skillet with whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something filling but don’t want to wash many dishes.
10. Ham and Cheese Quiche
Ham and cheese quiche is the perfect way to use your leftover ham. This versatile dish works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The combination of savory ham, melted cheese, and creamy egg custard creates a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
You can customize your quiche with leftover vegetables or different cheese varieties. Many recipes use a pre-made pie crust to save time.
This dish is especially popular after holidays like Easter when you might have extra ham on hand. It reheats well for quick meals throughout the week.
11. Ham and Pineapple Pizza
Ham and pineapple pizza is one of the tastiest ways to use leftover ham. This classic combination creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that many people love.
You can make mini pizzas for a kid-friendly option or create a full-sized version for the whole family. Adding diced jalapeños gives a spicy twist that balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Use either homemade or store-bought pizza dough as your base. Spread tomato sauce, add cheese, then top with your leftover ham pieces and pineapple chunks.
Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. This quick and delicious meal transforms your Easter or holiday ham into an entirely new dish.
12. Ham Macaroni Salad
Ham macaroni salad is a perfect way to use up your leftover ham. This cold pasta dish combines diced ham, cooked macaroni, and a creamy dressing for a satisfying meal.
To make it, mix cooked macaroni with cubed leftover ham, diced celery, and chopped onion. Add mayonnaise, a splash of vinegar, and your favorite seasonings.
You can customize your salad with extras like shredded cheese, peas, or diced bell peppers. This versatile dish works as a side for barbecues or as a complete lunch.
Make it ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. The flavors will blend together nicely as it chills.
13. Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and bean soup is one of the easiest ways to use leftover ham. This hearty comfort food combines diced ham with white beans and vegetables.
You can make this soup in just one pot. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery. Then add your leftover ham, beans, and broth.
Canned beans work perfectly for a quick weeknight meal. Navy beans or great northern beans are popular choices. Let everything simmer until the flavors blend together.
Serve your ham and bean soup with cornbread for a complete meal. It’s filling, inexpensive, and makes great leftovers.
14. Ham and Corn Frittata
A frittata is a perfect way to use leftover ham. This dish combines diced ham with sweet corn kernels for a satisfying meal.
To make it, whisk eggs with a splash of milk and pour over sautéed onions, ham, and corn in an oven-safe skillet. Add some cheese on top for extra flavor.
You can customize your frittata with other vegetables you have on hand. Try adding bell peppers or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
This versatile dish works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy it hot from the oven or cold the next day for an easy meal.
15. Ham and Zucchini Casserole
Ham and zucchini make a perfect pair in this easy casserole. You can transform your leftover ham into a delicious meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Start by slicing zucchini and yellow squash into thin rounds. Dice your leftover ham and chop some onions for flavor.
Layer these ingredients in a baking dish and top with plenty of cheese. Some recipes add eggs for a quiche-like texture, while others focus on a cheesy vegetable bake.
This versatile dish works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s also naturally low-carb since it doesn’t require pasta or potatoes.
16. Ham Tetrazzini
Ham Tetrazzini is a delicious twist on the classic chicken tetrazzini. It’s perfect for using up leftover ham after a big feast.
This hearty pasta dish combines diced ham with cooked spaghetti in a creamy Cheddar cheese sauce. The addition of chopped pimento and parsley adds bright colors and fresh flavors.
You can make this comforting casserole in about 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s filling enough to serve as a complete meal, but you can pair it with a simple side salad if you prefer.
Your family will appreciate this tasty transformation of leftover ham into something completely new and delicious.
17. Ham and Cheese Bread Pudding
Ham and cheese bread pudding is a tasty way to use your leftover ham. This savory dish combines cubed bread, diced ham, and shredded cheese baked in an egg and cream mixture.
Most recipes call for crusty bread cut into 1-inch cubes. Swiss or Gruyère cheese works best, but you can use any cheese you have on hand.
Some versions include a touch of mustard for extra flavor. You can prepare this dish the night before and bake it in the morning.
This comforting meal is simple to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s also great for feeding a crowd when you have guests.
18. Cuban Sandwich with Ham
The Cuban sandwich is a perfect way to use your leftover ham. This classic sandwich combines ham with roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard.
To make it, spread mustard on Cuban bread or a French baguette.
Layer on Swiss cheese, ham slices, roasted pork, and dill pickles.
You can enhance the flavor with a spice rub on the ham. Try a mix of brown sugar, cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
Press the sandwich in a panini press or grill it with a heavy pan on top until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts. The combination of meats creates a delicious flavor profile.
19. Ham and Spinach Strata
Ham and Spinach Strata is a perfect way to use your leftover ham. This make-ahead breakfast casserole combines crusty bread, ham, spinach, eggs, and cheese into one delicious dish.
You can prepare this strata the night before and bake it in the morning. It’s ideal for serving at family brunches or holiday gatherings.
The combination of savory ham with nutritious spinach creates a balanced meal. You can use frozen spinach to make preparation even easier.
This budget-friendly recipe is versatile too. You can add other leftover veggies you have on hand to customize it to your taste.
20. Ham and Tomato Pasta
Ham and tomato pasta is a quick weeknight dinner that transforms your leftover ham into something new and delicious. This simple dish combines diced ham with fresh tomatoes and pasta in a light sauce.
Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions. While it cooks, sauté diced ham until slightly crispy, then add cherry tomatoes cut in half.
A splash of cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds richness to the sauce. Mix in your drained pasta and toss everything together.
You can customize this dish with herbs like basil or parsley. It’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
21. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese
Ham and apple grilled cheese is a perfect way to use leftover ham. The sweet and savory combination creates a delicious sandwich that’s both simple and satisfying.
To make this sandwich, mix chopped ham with thin apple slices and a bit of mayonnaise. Some recipes also add honey and mustard for extra flavor.
Spread the mixture onto bread, top with slices of cheddar cheese, and grill until golden and melty. Multi-grain bread works well, but you can use any type you prefer.
This quick meal takes only about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a great option for lunch or a light dinner when you want to transform your leftover holiday ham.
Nutritional Benefits of Leftover Ham
Leftover ham offers several nutritional advantages that can enhance your daily diet. It provides essential nutrients while being a versatile ingredient for many recipes.
High Protein Content
Ham is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A 3-ounce serving of ham typically contains about 19 grams of protein, making it a nutrient-dense food choice.
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body. It also helps maintain muscle mass, especially important if you’re physically active or trying to manage your weight.
The protein in ham is complete, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids your body cannot produce on its own. This makes leftover ham a valuable protein option for post-holiday meals.
For those watching calories, ham can be a relatively lean protein option compared to some other meats, especially if you trim visible fat before eating.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Leftover ham provides several important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Ham is particularly rich in:
B Vitamins: Ham contains several B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and thiamine. These vitamins play crucial roles in energy production, brain function, and cell metabolism.
Minerals: Ham offers essential minerals like:
- Zinc (supports immune function)
- Selenium (acts as an antioxidant)
- Phosphorus (important for bone health)
- Iron (helps transport oxygen in blood)
Ham also contains sodium, which while necessary in small amounts, is something to be mindful of if you’re watching your salt intake. Rinsing leftover ham before reheating can help reduce some of the sodium content.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Ham
Leftover ham can be transformed into delicious new meals with just a few ingredients. These ideas will help you reduce food waste while creating tasty dishes your family will enjoy.
Incorporating Ham into Breakfast Dishes
Ham and Egg Muffin Cups: Chop ham into small pieces and press into muffin tins with eggs, cheese, and vegetables for a grab-and-go breakfast option.
Breakfast Casserole: Layer diced ham with hashbrowns, eggs, and cheese for a filling morning meal. This can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
Ham and Cheese Quiche: Mix cubed ham with eggs, cheese, and cream in a pie crust for a versatile dish that works for breakfast or brunch.
Ham Hash: Fry diced ham with potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Top with a fried egg for extra protein and flavor.
Ham and Cheese Waffles: Add finely chopped ham and shredded cheese to your waffle batter for a savory twist on a breakfast classic.
Enhancing Lunch and Dinner Meals
Monte Cristo Sandwiches: Layer ham and cheese between bread. Then, dip in egg batter and fry until golden for a delicious sandwich.
Ham Fried Rice: Stir fry diced ham with day-old rice. Then, add peas, carrots, and eggs for a quick weeknight meal.
Split Pea Soup: Simmer ham bones with split peas, carrots, celery, and onions for a hearty, comforting soup.
Pasta Carbonara with Ham: Substitute bacon with diced ham in carbonara for a delicious pasta dish.
Ham and Bean Soup: Combine leftover ham with white beans, vegetables, and herbs for a protein-packed meal.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham: Layer thin potato slices with ham pieces, cheese, and cream sauce for a satisfying casserole.
