9 Best Ham Leftover Recipes to Transform Your Meals

Leftover ham can be a delicious ingredient that transforms meals and snacks alike. Many people find themselves with extra ham after holidays or special occasions, leading to the question of how to use it creatively. I believe there are several great ways to enjoy leftover ham that can save time and reduce food waste.

In this article, I will share nine of my best leftover ham recipes. Each recipe is designed to be simple and satisfying, making it easy for anyone to incorporate ham into their meals. The possibilities are endless, and I look forward to helping you find new favorites.

1. Ham and Cheese Quiche

Ham and cheese quiche is a savory pie made with eggs, milk, cheese, and leftover ham. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Making quiche is simple and requires few steps. Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat the Oven: I set my oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: I use a pre-made pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
3. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, I whisk together 4 eggs and 1 cup of milk. Then, I stir in 1 cup of diced leftover ham and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Season: I add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Pour: I pour this mixture into the crust.
6. Bake: I bake it for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Letting it cool for a few minutes makes it easier to slice. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to enjoy leftover ham.

2. Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and potato soup is a comforting dish that uses leftover ham. It combines diced potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy base for a hearty meal.

I find this recipe easy to make, perfect for busy days. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Here are the steps I use:

1. In a large pot, I sauté 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic until soft.
2. Then, I add 4 cups of diced potatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth.
3. I let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Next, I stir in 2 cups of diced ham, 1 cup of milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finally, I cook for another 5 minutes and enjoy.

This soup is warm, filling, and a great way to use leftover ham.

3. Ham and Spinach Frittata

A Ham and Spinach Frittata is a simple and delicious way to use leftover ham. This dish is like a thick omelette, packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s easy to make and perfect for any meal of the day.

To prepare the frittata, I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, I whisk together six large eggs in a bowl until they are well combined. I then add salt, pepper, and a splash of milk to make it creamy.

In a skillet, I sauté a cup of fresh spinach in a bit of olive oil until it wilts. I then stir in one to two cups of diced leftover ham. Once the spinach is cooked, I pour the egg mixture over the ham and spinach, allowing it to cook on the stovetop for about 5 minutes.

Finally, I transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the frittata is set and slightly golden. Once it cools a bit, I slice it and serve. This dish is not only quick to make, but it also tastes great!

4. Ham and Pineapple Pizza

Ham and pineapple pizza is a popular dish that combines the savory flavor of ham with the sweetness of pineapple. This combination creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

Making ham and pineapple pizza is quite easy. I can whip it up quickly, especially if I have leftover ham from a previous meal. Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Add chopped leftover ham and pineapple chunks.
6. Bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham and creating a tasty meal. I enjoy customizing my pizza by adding extra toppings, like bell peppers or onions, based on what I have available.

5. Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice is a delicious way to use leftover ham. It combines cooked rice with vegetables and ham in a simple stir-fry. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy days.

To make ham fried rice, I need just a few ingredients. I typically use leftover ham, cooked rice, eggs, and any vegetables I have on hand, like peas and carrots.

Here are the basic steps I follow:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the leftover ham and chop the vegetables. Make sure to have cooked rice ready.
2. Heat the pan: I warm a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the eggs: I scramble the eggs in the pan and then remove them, setting them aside.
4. Stir-fry vegetables: Next, I add the vegetables to the pan and cook until tender.
5. Add ham and rice: I then mix in the ham and cooked rice. Stir everything together.
6. Combine it all: Finally, I add the scrambled eggs back in and season with soy sauce to taste.

It’s a simple recipe that takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare.

6. Ham and Broccoli Casserole

Ham and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting dish that combines leftover ham with fresh broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s a great way to use up cooked ham and create a meal that is satisfying and easy to prepare.

I find this recipe simple and quick. You’ll need just a few ingredients: leftover ham, broccoli, cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and some spices.

Here are the steps to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pot, cook 2 cups of broccoli until tender, then drain.
3. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of chopped ham, cooked broccoli, and one can of cream of mushroom soup.
4. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese and mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish.
6. Top with more cheese if you like and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Enjoy your Ham and Broccoli Casserole as a warm dinner option that the whole family will love!

7. Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and bean soup is a comforting dish made using leftover ham. It combines tender beans with savory ham and vegetables. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for using up scraps.

To make it, I start by gathering my ingredients: diced ham, beans, onions, carrots, celery, broth, and spices. This dish is great because it can be customized based on what I have on hand.

Here are the simple steps:

1. In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until soft.
2. Add in 2 to 3 cups of diced ham and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
4. Add 2 cups of drained beans and your choice of spices, like thyme or bay leaf.
5. Let it simmer for 30 minutes to blend the flavors.

I enjoy serving this soup with crusty bread. It’s a satisfying meal that warms me up on chilly days. Plus, it’s a great way to make the most of leftover ham.

8. Ham Sandwich

A ham sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal. It typically consists of slices of ham placed between two pieces of bread. I enjoy using leftover ham, as it adds great flavor and reduces food waste.

Making a ham sandwich is easy and quick. Here are the steps I follow:

1. Gather Ingredients: I prepare my leftover ham, bread, and any extras like cheese, mustard, or lettuce.
2. Layer the Ham: I take one slice of bread and add a generous portion of ham on top.
3. Add Extras: If I want, I can add cheese, mustard, or any vegetables I have on hand.
4. Top with Bread: I place another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Serve: I cut the sandwich in half and enjoy it right away.

This recipe is versatile. I can customize it with different types of bread or condiments based on my preferences. The ham sandwich is a great way to use up leftover ham and create a tasty meal in minutes.

9. Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast

Ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast is a tasty way to use leftover ham. It combines juicy chicken with savory ham and melted cheese for a delicious meal.

This recipe is simple and quick to make. I can prepare it in about 30 minutes.

To make ham and cheese stuffed chicken breast, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take 2 chicken breasts and slice them open to create a pocket.
3. Fill each pocket with 2-3 slices of ham and a slice of cheese.
4. Secure the openings with toothpicks and season with salt and pepper.
5. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil and brown each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes on both sides.
6. Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Once finished, remove the toothpicks and serve. This dish pairs well with vegetables or a salad. Enjoy a great meal with very little effort!

What Are the Tips for Storing Leftover Ham?

Properly storing leftover ham is essential to maintain its flavor and safety. I will cover key guidelines for refrigeration as well as steps for freezing ham effectively.

What Are the Refrigeration Guidelines for Leftover Ham?

To keep leftover ham fresh, I recommend refrigerating it promptly. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air exposure. This helps reduce moisture loss and keeps it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Always store ham in an airtight container if possible. Ham should be consumed within 3 to 5 days after cooking. When slicing ham, use a clean knife to avoid contamination.

I also note that pre-packaged ham may have specific guidelines found on the label. If the label states a different time frame, follow those instructions for optimal freshness.

How Do You Freeze Ham Properly?

Freezing is a great option for longer storage of leftover ham. I usually slice the ham before freezing it. This makes it easier to thaw only what I need later.

When freezing, I place the ham in heavy-duty freezer bags or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Use aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Always label the bags with the date to keep track of storage time.

Frozen ham can last up to 6 months in the freezer. For best results, thaw ham in the refrigerator for 24 hours before use. Allowing it to thaw slowly helps maintain its texture and flavor.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Ham?

Ham offers several valuable nutritional benefits that make it a great addition to meals. It’s packed with protein and important vitamins and minerals, which can contribute to a balanced diet.

Why Is Ham a Good Source of Protein?

Ham is an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues. A three-ounce serving of cooked ham provides about 18 grams of protein. This makes it a satisfying option for meals and snacks.

Protein plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including immune response and hormone production. Including ham in my diet can help meet my daily protein requirements, making it a smart choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.

What Essential Vitamins and Minerals Are Found in Ham?

Ham is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins. It contains B6 and B12, which are important for energy metabolism and red blood cell production. A serving of ham also provides minerals like zinc and phosphorus.

• Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing.
• Phosphorus: Vital for bone health and energy production.

Additionally, ham has a decent amount of selenium, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Including ham in my meals can help ensure I get these essential nutrients in my diet.