Leftover Ham Recipes – Leftover ham doesn’t have to be boring! Its rich, smoky, and salty flavor can be the star of many delicious dishes, making the most out of your holiday or family feast leftovers. Whether you’re craving something hearty for breakfast, a comforting dinner, or a quick lunch, leftover ham adds depth and savory satisfaction to every bite. From creamy casseroles and flavorful stir-fries to quick quesadillas and hearty soups, there’s a perfect recipe for every occasion. These versatile dishes are easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and will transform your leftovers into something truly special.
Ham is a beloved ingredient in many households, often showing up during holidays or large family gatherings. Whether it’s baked, smoked, or cooked in a slow cooker, ham has a unique flavor that blends smokiness with just the right touch of saltiness. The beauty of ham is that it’s incredibly versatile—you can turn it into a variety of dishes that cater to both comfort food cravings and quick, easy meals. Once you’ve enjoyed a ham dinner, you’re left with plenty of leftovers that can easily be transformed into something new and exciting.
Leftover Ham Recipes
Leftover ham makes for delicious breakfast options, satisfying dinners, and even quick lunches. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be combined with vegetables, grains, and various spices to create mouthwatering meals that your whole family will love.
Let’s dive into some of the best ways to transform those leftover slices of ham into tasty meals that will keep your taste buds wanting more.
1. Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
A great way to use up leftover ham in the morning is by turning it into a baked dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or even for a relaxed weekend brunch. To make this, you’ll need croissants—whether you have fresh ones from the bakery or those left over from a family gathering. Begin by tearing the croissants into pieces and placing them in a baking dish.
Then, layer the ham on top, followed by shredded cheese—preferably something like mozzarella or cheddar. Next, whisk together eggs, milk, and a few spices such as salt, pepper, and herbs (like thyme or parsley). Pour this mixture over the croissant, ham, and cheese layers. Bake until golden brown and bubbly on top. Serve this ham and cheese croissant bake with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a complete meal.
2. Ham and Potato Casserole
Another comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover ham is a hearty potato casserole. This dish combines creamy potatoes with chunks of ham, making it a stick-to-your-ribs meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. To prepare this casserole, start by boiling potatoes until they’re tender, then dice them into chunks. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes with leftover ham, chopped onions, and shredded cheese.
In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup, along with milk, sour cream, and some spices like garlic powder and paprika. Pour this creamy mixture over the potato-ham mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake until it’s bubbly and golden on top. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of green beans or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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3. Ham and Veggie Stir-Fry
If you’re looking for something quick and light, a ham and veggie stir-fry is an excellent choice. It’s a great way to use up any leftover ham while incorporating fresh or frozen vegetables you might have on hand. For this recipe, chop your leftover ham into small pieces and set aside. Heat a little oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then add in your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, carrots—whatever you have on hand—can work perfectly here.
Toss the vegetables in the pan until they’re slightly tender, then add the diced ham. Stir in soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey for sweetness and depth. Cook everything together for another few minutes until the veggies are cooked through and coated in the savory sauce. Serve this ham and veggie stir-fry over steamed rice for a light and satisfying dinner.
4. Ham and Bean Soup
A classic dish that’s perfect for using up leftover ham is a hearty ham and bean soup. This comforting soup is filling and packed with flavor, making it a favorite for chilly days. To prepare this soup, start by soaking dried beans overnight or using canned beans if you prefer something quicker. Dice the leftover ham into small chunks and set aside. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until they’re soft.
Add in the diced ham, beans (whether dried or canned), and chicken or vegetable broth. Season the soup with garlic powder, thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. Let it simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the flavors meld together and the beans are tender. Serve this ham and bean soup with some warm crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
5. Ham and Cheese Quesadillas
For a quick and easy lunch or snack option, try making ham and cheese quesadillas. This is a straightforward recipe that only requires a few ingredients and can be ready in minutes. Take flour or corn tortillas and place them on a flat surface. Spread slices of leftover ham evenly across half of each tortilla, then sprinkle with shredded cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack work well.
Fold the tortillas in half and heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted. Serve these ham and cheese quesadillas with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor.
6. Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
For a tropical twist on your leftovers, consider making fried rice with ham and pineapple. This dish brings together sweet and savory flavors for a delightful combination. Start by cooking some day-old rice or using leftover rice from a previous meal. In a large skillet, heat a little oil and sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic until fragrant.
Add in the leftover ham and sauté for another few minutes. Then, toss in chunks of pineapple and stir everything together. Add cooked rice to the skillet, along with soy sauce, a touch of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of ground ginger. Mix everything together well, letting the rice absorb the flavors. This ham and pineapple fried rice is best served hot with a garnish of chopped green onions and a dash of sesame seeds.
7. Ham and Spinach Frittata
A simple and light option for breakfast or brunch is a ham and spinach frittata. This dish combines the rich flavors of ham with the freshness of sautéed spinach, all baked together in a fluffy egg base. Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in a skillet until fragrant. Add in the diced ham and let it cook for a few minutes until warmed.
Then, add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs with milk, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as basil or oregano). Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook over low heat until the edges begin to set. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and bake until the top is golden and puffed. This ham and spinach frittata pairs beautifully with a side of fresh salad or roasted tomatoes.
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8. Ham and Potato Hash
A savory and crispy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or dinner is ham and potato hash. This dish combines the smokiness of leftover ham with the satisfying texture of sautéed potatoes and vegetables. Peel and cut potatoes into small cubes to begin. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté diced onions and bell peppers until soft.
Add in the potatoes and cook until they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the leftover diced ham and cook for another few minutes to heat through. Season with salt, black pepper, and your choice of spices (paprika or cumin work well). This ham and potato hash can be served on its own or topped with a fried egg for extra protein.
Conclusion
Leftover ham doesn’t have to go to waste—it’s a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of flavorful meals. From hearty breakfasts and comforting casseroles to quick stir-fries and savory soups, these recipes help you make the most out of your leftovers.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and quick or something more satisfying, ham’s rich, smoky flavor adds a delicious twist to every dish. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create tasty meals that your family will love.
FAQs
Yes! Frozen ham can be used for most of these recipes. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
You can usually keep leftover ham in the fridge for three to four days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Absolutely! You can replace ham with chicken, turkey, or even bacon depending on your preference.