15+ Recipes for Leftover Ham: Delicious Ideas to Transform Your Leftovers

Leftover ham is a delicious ingredient that can transform into a variety of satisfying meals. If you’re wondering what to do with that extra ham sitting in your fridge, you’re not alone.

There are many creative recipes that can help you make the most of your leftover ham while adding flavor to your dishes.

In this article, you will find several ways to use leftover ham, whether you’re craving a comforting casserole, a hearty soup, or something quick and easy. These recipes will not only prevent waste but will also delight your taste buds and keep your meals interesting. Get ready to explore the possibilities with leftover ham!

1) Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole

Cheesy ham and potato casserole is a great way to use up leftover ham. This dish is warm, hearty, and loved by many. It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.

To make this casserole, you’ll need diced leftover ham, potatoes, and plenty of cheese. The creamy sauce brings everything together, making it flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 4 cups Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the ham, potatoes, cheese, sour cream, soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.

2) Ham and Broccoli Noodle Bake

This Ham and Broccoli Noodle Bake is a comforting dish that makes great use of leftover ham. You will enjoy its creamy texture and delightful flavors.

Start by cooking egg noodles until they are al dente. Mix the noodles with diced ham and broccoli for a tasty combination.

Then, add in a creamy sauce to bring it all together. Top with cheese for that extra cheesy goodness. Bake it all until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked egg noodles
• 2 cups diced fully cooked ham
• 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed
• 1 cup creamy sauce (like Alfredo)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, ham, and broccoli.
4. Stir in the creamy sauce and mix well.
5. Pour the mix into a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and golden.

3) Ham and Split Pea Soup

Ham and split pea soup is a warm and hearty dish. It’s a great way to use leftover ham from your holiday meals. The combination of split peas, vegetables, and tender ham creates a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.

To make this soup, you will start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a pot. Then, add your split peas, chopped ham, and broth. Season it with herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor.

Let the soup simmer until the peas are tender. This usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Serve it hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-20 ounce) package dried split peas
• 8 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup diced leftover ham
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot.
2. Add split peas, ham, and broth.
3. Season with bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until peas are tender.
5. Remove bay leaf before serving.

4) Ham and Cheese Omelet

A ham and cheese omelet is a quick and tasty way to use leftover ham. It’s perfect for breakfast or any meal when you want something fulfilling.

To make your omelet, start with a few simple ingredients. You’ll need eggs, diced ham, and your favorite cheese, like cheddar or Swiss. Fresh herbs like chives add a nice touch.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil or butter. Pour in beaten eggs and let them cook until set. Then, sprinkle the ham and cheese on one half. Fold the omelet over and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup diced ham
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
• 1 teaspoon oil or butter
• Chopped herbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Beat the eggs in a bowl.
2. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
3. Pour in the beaten eggs.
4. Cook until the edges are set.
5. Add ham and cheese to one half.
6. Fold the omelet and cook until fully set. Enjoy!

5) Ham and Pineapple Pizza

Ham and pineapple pizza is a delightful way to use leftover ham. The sweet pineapple pairs well with the savory ham, creating a delicious flavor combination.

To make this pizza, start with your favorite pizza dough. You can use store-bought or homemade. Spread pizza sauce over the dough and sprinkle with cheese.

Add the chopped ham and pineapple evenly. You might also like to add some red onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. Bake it at 450°F (232°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Ingredients

• 1 pizza dough
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups chopped ham
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1-2 cups shredded cheese
• Optional: red onions, bell peppers

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a baking sheet.
3. Spread pizza sauce over the dough.
4. Sprinkle cheese on top.
5. Add chopped ham and pineapple.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Enjoy!

6) Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins

Ham and egg breakfast muffins are a delicious way to use leftover ham. These muffins are easy to make and perfect for breakfast on the go.

You’ll start with a base of eggs, which provide plenty of protein. Add in diced ham for flavor and nutrition. Cheese can be included for extra taste.

You can bake these muffins in a muffin tin, making them easy to handle and reheat later.

Ingredients

• 12 eggs
• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 ¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.
3. Stir in the diced ham, cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased muffin tin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the muffins are set.
6. Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Enjoy!

7) Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and bean soup is a comforting dish perfect for using leftover ham. It’s easy to make and warms you up on chilly days. You’ll enjoy every spoonful of this hearty soup.

To start, gather your leftover ham, beans, and some fresh vegetables. A mix of navy beans and ham creates a delicious flavor. You can also add carrots and celery for extra nutrition.

Feel free to experiment with spices to add a twist to your soup. A dash of black pepper or a sprinkle of thyme can enhance the taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover ham, diced
• 1 can navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add the diced ham and cook for a few minutes.
3. Stir in the beans and chicken broth.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Serve warm. Enjoy!

8) Ham and Vegetable Stir Fry

A ham and vegetable stir fry is a quick and tasty way to use leftover ham. It comes together in just a few minutes and is packed with flavor.

Start by gathering your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. You’ll want to chop them into small pieces to help them cook evenly.

Add your chopped leftover ham to the pan, along with a splash of soy sauce and a hint of garlic. Stir everything together over medium-high heat until the veggies are tender and the ham is heated through.

This dish is great served over rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped leftover ham
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add ham and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and garlic, then cook for another minute.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.

9) Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and potato soup is a great way to use up leftover ham. This warm dish is comforting and easy to make.

Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need potatoes, diced cooked ham, celery, onion, and some chicken broth. You can also add spices for extra flavor.

To cook, combine the potatoes, ham, celery, and onion in a large pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a low boil. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.

For a creamy touch, some recipes suggest adding a bit of milk or cheese at the end. Enjoy your hearty soup!

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups peeled and diced potatoes
• ¾ cup diced cooked ham
• ⅓ cup diced celery
• ⅓ cup finely chopped onion
• 3 ¼ cups chicken broth or water

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine potatoes, ham, celery, and onion in a large pot.
2. Add the chicken broth.
3. Bring to a low boil over medium heat.
4. Cook until potatoes are tender.
5. Optional: Stir in milk or cheese before serving.

10) Ham and Cheese Sandwich

Using leftover ham to make a ham and cheese sandwich is quick and easy. Start with your favorite bread, like whole wheat or sourdough. Layer thin slices of ham with cheese.

You can use Swiss, cheddar, or any cheese you prefer. Add mustard or mayonnaise for extra flavor.

Toast the sandwich in a skillet until the cheese melts and the bread is golden brown.

Serve hot with a side of pickles or chips for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of bread
• 2 slices of leftover ham
• 1-2 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
• Mustard or mayonnaise (optional)
• Butter for toasting

Cooking Instructions

1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place one slice, butter side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Layer ham and cheese on top.
4. Add the second slice of bread, butter side up.
5. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Flip and cook the other side until the cheese melts, about 3-4 minutes.

11) Ham and Cheese Pasta

Ham and cheese pasta is a quick and tasty way to use leftover ham. It combines pasta, creamy cheese, and savory ham into a warm dish that feels like a hug.

You can use any type of pasta you have at home. Boil the pasta until it’s al dente. Then, add in your leftover ham and cheese for a delicious topping.

This meal cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You can even throw in some veggies like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
• 1 cup (150 grams) diced leftover ham
• 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheese (like Swiss or cheddar)
• 1 cup (240 mL) milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water.
2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
3. Add the diced ham, cheese, and milk to the pasta.
4. Stir over low heat until the cheese melts.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm.

12) Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. You can have this dish ready in about 20 minutes!

Start with some cooked rice and diced ham. Add in veggies like peas and carrots for extra nutrition. Soy sauce gives it a savory taste that ties everything together.

You can customize your fried rice with your favorite ingredients. Try adding scrambled eggs or green onions for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup diced leftover ham
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add green onions and stir until fragrant.
3. Mix in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in the rice and diced ham.
5. Add soy sauce and mix well.
6. If using, push rice to one side, scramble eggs on the other side, then combine everything.

13) Ham and Cheese Quiche

Ham and cheese quiche is a tasty way to use leftover ham. It’s simple to make and great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with a flaky crust.

You can start with a store-bought pie crust for a faster option. Layer your ham and shredded cheese inside. Then, pour your egg mixture over it and bake until golden brown.

This quiche is filling and delicious. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust, store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup cheese, shredded (cheddar or your choice)
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the pie crust in a pie dish.
3. Sprinkle half the cheese on the crust.
4. Add the diced ham.
5. Top with the remaining cheese.
6. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until set and lightly browned.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

14) Ham Salad Wraps

Ham salad wraps are a great way to use leftover ham. They are tasty and easy to make. You can enjoy these wraps for lunch or as a snack.

To start, mix chopped ham with ingredients like cream cheese, celery, and hard-boiled eggs. This will create a creamy and flavorful mixture. You can add spices like salt and pepper to taste.

Next, spread the ham salad on a tortilla or wrap of your choice. Roll it up tightly and slice it into pinwheels. These pinwheels are perfect for parties or a quick meal.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups diced leftover ham
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 ½ tablespoons chopped pickles
• ¼ cup chopped celery
• ¼ cup chopped red onion
• Tortillas or wraps

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine diced ham, mayonnaise, cream cheese, pickles, celery, and onion.
2. Mix well until smooth.
3. Spread the mixture on a tortilla.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly and slice into pinwheels.

15) Ham and Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Ham and cream cheese roll-ups are a quick and tasty way to use leftover ham. They make a great snack or appetizer for any gathering.

To make these roll-ups, start with thinly sliced deli ham. Spread cream cheese over each slice and add your favorite toppings like pickles or green onions.

Then, simply roll them up and slice into bite-sized pieces. These are easy to customize, so feel free to get creative!

Ingredients

• 1 pound thinly sliced deli ham
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• Pickle spears or green onions (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Spread cream cheese evenly on each slice of ham.
2. Add pickles or green onions if desired.
3. Roll each slice tightly.
4. Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve.