Creative and Delicious Leftover Ham Recipes for Every Occasion
Rediscover the versatility of cooked meat with tasty dishes for any time of day.
After a big holiday feast—whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or any family gathering—you’re often left with a significant amount of ham. The good news? Ham is one of the most versatile leftovers out there. Its salty, savory profile livens up everything from breakfast scrambles and wholesome soups to hearty sandwiches and creamy casseroles.
This comprehensive guide draws inspiration from the kitchen traditions of using every last bite, presenting you with varied approaches to enjoying leftover ham. From breakfast favorites and classic sandwiches to warming soups and inventive mains, discover new family-favorite recipes that will give new life to your leftovers.
Table of Contents
- Why Leftover Ham Is So Great
- Storing and Preparing Leftover Ham
- Breakfast Recipes with Leftover Ham
- Sandwiches & Wraps
- Soups and Stews Featuring Leftover Ham
- Main Dishes to Enjoy Ham All Week
- Casseroles & Pasta Dishes
- Simple Sides and Other Creative Ideas
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Leftover Ham Is So Great
More than many other types of leftover meat, ham is prized for its versatility and ease of use. A well-baked or roasted ham stays juicy, flavorful, and easy to slice, dice, or shred. Its flavor complements a wide range of dishes—from simple to sophisticated. Here are a few reasons why leftover ham is a household favorite:
- Stays flavorful: Ham’s saltiness and smokiness shine even after refrigeration.
- Meaty texture: Unlike delicate roast turkey, ham keeps a sturdy bite when reheated or recooked.
- Works in many cuisines: From American breakfasts to French-style gratins and savory soups, ham is internationally beloved.
- Reduces food waste: Transforming leftovers into new meals maximizes your holiday investment and minimizes waste.
Storing and Preparing Leftover Ham
To keep your leftover ham safe and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here are tips for storing and prepping your ham for a week (or more) of meal magic:
- Refrigerate promptly: Store ham in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic as soon as possible after serving—ideally within two hours.
- Slice or cube: Cut ham into meal-size portions, slices, or cubes to streamline your cooking during the week.
- Freeze for later: Ham freezes very well. Portion it into freezer bags or containers for up to 2–3 months.
- Save the bone: If your ham has a bone, don’t toss it! The bone adds incredible flavor to soups, stews, and stocks.
Breakfast Recipes with Leftover Ham
Ham is a classic breakfast ingredient, pairing perfectly with eggs, cheese, and pastries. The following breakfast recipes will transform your morning routine:
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata
This make-ahead dish layers leftover ham, cubes of bread, shredded cheese, and a creamy egg custard. Bake until puffy and golden for a decadent brunch centerpiece. Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd the day after a big holiday meal.
Classic Ham & Potato Hash
Toss diced ham with cooked potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a skillet. Sauté until golden and crispy, then finish with a fried or poached egg. Simple, hearty, and completely customizable with your favorite veggies.
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Ham and Cheese Omelette
A classic breakfast staple: beat eggs, season, and add chopped ham and shredded cheese before folding for a gooey, savory start to the day.
- Works with Swiss, cheddar, or gouda cheese for distinct flavors.
- Add a handful of chopped herbs for brightness.
Fluffy Ham Biscuits
Add diced ham to your favorite biscuit dough, bake, and serve warm. These savory treats are wonderful solo or as a base for breakfast sandwiches.
Sandwiches & Wraps
If you love a good sandwich, you’re in luck—leftover ham is the perfect filling for hearty sandwiches and wraps. Here are a few classics you won’t want to miss:
Croque Monsieur / Croque Madame
The Croque Monsieur is a French bistro favorite: sandwich slices of ham and Gruyère (or Swiss) cheese between crusty bread, dip in béchamel sauce, then pan-grill or bake until golden and melty. For a Croque Madame, top with a fried egg for extra richness.
- Great for brunch or lunch.
- Can be prepared open-face or closed.
Classic Ham Salad Sandwich
Chop leftover ham and combine with mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and a sprinkle of black pepper for a creamy, tangy sandwich spread. Serve on toast, croissants, or crackers as a snack.
Ham, Cheese, and Pickle Wrap
Roll sliced ham, cheese, and pickles in tortillas or flatbread for a quick, kid-friendly lunch. Try adding a swipe of Dijon mustard or crunchy lettuce for added freshness and bite.
Soups and Stews Featuring Leftover Ham
The ham bone (and scraps of meat left on it) are culinary gold for flavor-rich broths. Many traditional soups revolve around the flavor of ham. Here are a few soul-warming options:
Classic Split Pea and Ham Soup
Sauté carrots, onions, and celery until softened, then simmer with split peas, chopped leftover ham, and the ham bone. The result is a thick, savory soup that’s pure cold-weather comfort.
- Freezes well for make-ahead lunches.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
Another classic: combine diced ham, white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), aromatic vegetables, and stock (chicken or vegetable). Simmer until the beans are creamy and the ham is tender.
- Use canned beans for a fast version or dried beans for deeper flavor.
Ham and Potato Chowder
This creamy soup features tender chunks of potato and ham in a comforting, herby broth. Add a splash of cream and a handful of corn or leeks for sweetness and extra texture.
Main Dishes to Enjoy Ham All Week
Leftover ham can anchor a range of satisfying main courses. The key is to pair its hearty flavor with complementary ingredients:
Skillet Ham Fried Rice
Dice ham and quickly sauté it with cooked rice, peas, carrots, scallions, and a splash of soy sauce. Push the mixture to the side of the skillet and scramble in eggs for a full meal. A dash of sesame oil and fresh herbs completes this speedy dinner.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
This comfort food favorite layers thinly sliced potatoes with ham and cheese in a creamy sauce. Bake until the potatoes are fork-tender and the topping is bubbling and golden.
- Works well as a main or a hearty side dish.
Ham and Vegetable Quiche
Whisk eggs and milk, then fill a pie crust (or crustless!) with diced ham, your favorite vegetables, and cheese. Bake until puffed and set for a delicious brunch, lunch, or dinner.
- Use spinach, leeks, mushrooms, or peppers for variety.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad.
Grilled Ham Steak with Glaze
Brush thick slabs of leftover ham with a brown sugar and mustard glaze, then grill or broil until caramelized. Serve with seasonal vegetables for a meal that feels fresh and intentional.
Casseroles & Pasta Dishes
Casseroles and baked pasta dishes are ideal for using up odds and ends of ham, veggies, and cheese. Try these easy favorites:
One-Pan Ham and Broccoli Pasta Bake
Toss cooked pasta with ham, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a casserole dish and bake until bubbly and golden, then top with crisp breadcrumbs for texture.
- Swap in different vegetables or cheeses to clean out your fridge.
Ham and Cheese Macaroni Casserole
Upgrade classic mac and cheese with chunks of ham and sautéed onions. Bake until the top is crisp and the cheese is gooey. This casserole is comfort food at its best—rich, creamy, and irresistible.
Ham Tetrazzini
This creamy, pasta-based casserole features ham, mushrooms, and a white sauce, then is finished with a golden cheese topping. It’s one of the most satisfying ways to stretch leftovers into multiple meals.
Simple Sides & Other Creative Ideas
Ham doesn’t have to be the main event; it can add depth, salt, and heft to all sorts of dishes. Here are a few more creative uses:
- Deviled Ham Spread: Purée ham with cream cheese, mustard, and spices for a tangy dip or cracker spread.
- Ham and Cheese Scones: Mix diced ham and shredded cheese into biscuit or scone dough.
- Egg Fried Rice with Ham: A great kitchen-sink dish with cooked rice, eggs, and stray vegetables.
- Stuffed Peppers or Zucchini: Fill with ham, rice, cheese, and sautéed vegetables, then bake until tender and golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can leftover ham be stored in the fridge?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, cooked ham can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for 2–3 months.
Q: Can I use smoked or honey-glazed ham in these recipes?
A: Absolutely. Smoked and honey-glazed ham offer a delicious flavor profile that works well in all the recipes listed. Adjust other seasonings as needed.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover ham without drying it out?
A: Reheat ham gently—either wrapped in foil in a low oven, or in a covered dish with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Q: Is it necessary to cook leftover ham before adding it to recipes?
A: Most hams are fully cooked. You simply want to warm them up or fold them into recipes at the final stages of cooking.
Conclusion
Leftover ham is more than just an afterthought; it’s the start of countless creative and comforting meals. With a little imagination—and some of the above recipe ideas—you’ll look forward to leftovers just as much as the feast itself. Embrace these easy, delicious recipes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and give your holiday ham a flavorful encore.
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