Got leftover ham and not sure what to do with it? Here are 25 easy and delicious recipes to help you make the most of it. No fuss, just straightforward, mouthwatering ideas that anyone can whip up. Let’s get that ham out of the fridge and onto our plates in new and tasty ways!
1. Ham and Cheese Hot Pockets
You can easily make your own ham and cheese hot pockets at home using leftover ham and a few simple ingredients. These homemade hot pockets are the perfect way to use up any extra ham you have from holiday dinners or weeknight meals.
They are so much better than the store-bought version, with a flaky, golden crust and a gooey, cheesy center. Plus, they make a convenient hand-held meal that you can easily pack for lunch or enjoy on-the-go.
Trust me, once you try these homemade ham and cheese hot pockets, you’ll never want to go back to the frozen ones again!
2. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Muffins
To make these scrumptious breakfast muffins, simply grab some ham and cheese from your fridge or pantry and get ready to enjoy a delicious morning treat.
These muffins are the perfect grab-n-go option for busy mornings.
The combination of savory ham and melted cheese creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
The colorful appearance of these muffins will brighten up your breakfast table.
Plus, they freeze well, so you can easily pop them in the oven for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
3. Ham Hash
Start by sautéing the diced ham until it becomes crispy and brown. The sizzling sound fills the kitchen as the sweet aroma of cooked ham wafts through the air.
I love how this simple recipe transforms leftover ham into a flavorful hash that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that will make you feel like part of a warm, welcoming community of food lovers.
Top it off with a sunny side up egg for an extra touch of deliciousness.
4. Leftover Ham Breakfast Sandwich
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty breakfast option, nothing beats a leftover ham breakfast sandwich.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm English muffin filled with savory slices of ham, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs.
It’s the ultimate comfort food that will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to conquer the day.
Best of all, it only takes 20 minutes to whip up this classic breakfast sandwich using your leftover ham.
Easy-peasy and oh so delicious!
5. Ham and Pineapple Rice
For a quick and flavorful one-pot meal, whip up some ham and pineapple rice.
This dish is inspired by the classic Hawaiian pizza, combining the savory taste of ham with the sweet tanginess of pineapple.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also convenient as it requires minimal cleaning afterward.
Plus, you have the flexibility to adjust the recipe by adding more veggies for extra texture or using tomato sauce to enhance that iconic Hawaiian pizza flavor.
6. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
To make scalloped potatoes and ham, you’ll need thinly sliced potatoes layered with creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese.
This classic Southern dish is a comforting favorite that never fails to satisfy.
The combination of tender potatoes, rich creaminess, and smoky ham creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
7. Leftover Ham Casserole
When you’re in need of a quick and easy meal, make a delicious leftover ham casserole. It’s the perfect way to use up those holiday leftovers.
Simply combine corn, creamy garlic sauce, noodles, and panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. The combination of tender ham, sweet corn, and creamy sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
And the addition of panko breadcrumbs adds a delightful crispy texture that will have your taste buds begging for more.
8. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ham and cheese sliders are a crowd-pleasing snack or light lunch option. They are perfect for layering and baking with a flavorful butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoning mixture.
The combination of savory ham and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering bite that is sure to please any palate.
The glaze made from the buttery mixture adds an extra burst of flavor to these irresistible sliders.
9. Ham and Spinach Casserole
If you’re looking for a filling and healthy meal option, try making a double batch of this ham and spinach casserole.
It’s the perfect combination of savory ham, nutritious spinach, and hearty ziti noodles.
The flavors meld together in a comforting blend that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you satisfied for hours.
Plus, with the ability to make a large batch, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
10. Leftover Ham and Leek Pies
To make these delicious pies, all you need are some leftover slices of ham, leeks, and a few other simple ingredients.
These pies are the perfect way to transform your leftover ham into a mouthwatering meal.
The crispy, golden brown pie crust envelops a filling of fresh mushrooms, tender ham, and creamy broth that oozes with warm flavors.
Pair it with mashed potatoes and peas for the ultimate comfort food experience.
11. Baked Ham and Penne Pasta
You’ll love the creamy garlic-cheese sauce that coats the baked ham and penne pasta, creating a delectable combination of flavors.
The ham adds a savory richness to the dish, while the penne pasta provides a satisfying chewiness.
The sauce, with its smooth creaminess and subtle garlic notes, brings everything together in perfect harmony.
This recipe is not only delicious but also practical; you can make it ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.
12. Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole
When making the ham and cheese croissant casserole, you can easily incorporate the hot sauce into the mixture for an added kick of flavor.
The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and buttery croissants creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.
As the casserole bakes in the oven, the flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
The hot sauce adds a spicy element that elevates this brunch classic to new heights, leaving you craving more with every bite.
13. Leftover Ham Salad
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to use up your leftover ham, try making a tasty ham salad with just a few simple ingredients.
It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings without much prep.
This ham salad is not overly creamy or saucy, but it still packs plenty of flavor.
I like to use mayonnaise as the base for my dressing, then add a touch of mustard, pepper, and salt for that extra kick.
14. Ham Pot Pie Soup
To make this creamy pot pie soup, start by combining your holiday ham and leftover vegetables with egg noodles for added filling. Then flavor it with garlic, bay leaves, and thyme.
This comforting soup is perfect for using up those holiday leftovers. The ham adds a savory richness to the dish while the vegetables provide a burst of color and freshness. The egg noodles give it a heartiness that will warm you up on a cold day.
15. Leftover Ham Chowder
You’ll love how the shredded pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick to this surprisingly tasty leftover ham chowder.
This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for using up those leftover ham leftovers.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that will warm your soul.
The combination of the smoky ham, creamy potatoes, and flavorful broth is simply irresistible.
16. Leftover Ham and Potato Soup
Now, let’s talk about another delicious way to use up leftover ham: Leftover Ham and Potato Soup.
This comforting soup is the perfect choice for a cozy winter evening. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s sure to warm your soul.
The recipe calls for simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it easy to whip up with minimal effort.
Serve this cheesy soup with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
17. Leftover Ham and Bean Soup
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, consider making a delicious leftover ham and bean soup.
It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on those chilly nights. The ham bone adds an enhanced flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Cannellini beans are a common choice, but lentils or navy beans work just as well.
18. Leftover Ham and Cheese Biscuits
To make the leftover ham and cheese biscuits, start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
These biscuits are a delicious way to use up that extra ham from last night’s dinner. The buttermilk biscuits are tender and flaky, with smoky pieces of ham and creamy melted cheese throughout. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
With this simple recipe, you can skip the dough rolling and simply scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet before baking to golden perfection.
19. Ham and Cheese Grits Casserole
You can easily make a delicious ham and cheese grits casserole by combining cooked grits with diced ham, shredded cheese, and your favorite spices.
This breakfast casserole is a hearty dish that will satisfy any craving. The creamy texture of the grits pairs perfectly with the savory ham and melted cheese.
It’s like biting into a warm hug on a chilly morning. Serve it alongside some fresh fruits or a glass of milk for a complete meal.
Don’t let those leftovers go to waste when you can create something this tasty!
20. Split Pea Soup
When making split pea soup, be sure to use ham close to the bone for maximum flavor. The rich, smoky essence of the ham infuses every spoonful, creating a comforting and hearty dish.
Alternatively, you can use ham steaks or boneless ham if that’s what you have on hand. To enhance the soup’s texture and add some bulk, I suggest adding potatoes and carrots.
21. Leftover Ham Sandwich
If you’re craving a quick and delicious sandwich, try layering leftover ham slices with melted cheese, mustard, mayo, and strawberry jam for a decadent treat.
The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, tangy mustard, creamy mayo, and sweet strawberry jam creates the perfect balance of flavors.
Each bite is a mouthwatering explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more.
This fool-proof recipe requires no cooking, just layering and toasting, making it an ideal option for anyone looking for a satisfying meal in 15 minutes or less.
22. Glazed Ham Loaf
For a delectable twist on classic ham, try making a glazed ham loaf with a brown sugar and vinegar glaze that adds a delightful sweet and tangy flavor.
This recipe combines the savory taste of ham with the richness of brown sugar and the tanginess of vinegar to create a mouthwatering glaze.
The result is a juicy, tender ham loaf with a crispy exterior that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Top it off with fresh tomatoes, spinach, and slices of hard-boiled egg for added color and texture.
23. Leftover Ham and Cheese Pizza
To make a delicious ham and cheese pizza, start by spreading pizza sauce on the dough and adding onions. Then, top it off with your favorite toppings for added variety.
The combination of savory ham, gooey cheese, and tangy sauce creates an explosion of flavors in every bite. The onions add a subtle crunch and a hint of sweetness to balance the richness of the ham.
24. Leftover Ham and Cheese Scones
When making these moist and flavorful scones, you’ll love the combination of cheddar cheese and honey-glazed ham.
These scones are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a party.
The cheese adds a rich and savory taste, while the honey-glazed ham brings a touch of sweetness.
These scones can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them versatile and convenient.
25. Ham and Potato Casserole
After enjoying the deliciousness of Leftover Ham and Cheese Scones, another fantastic way to use up that leftover ham is by making a mouthwatering Ham and Potato Casserole.
Picture this: salty slices of ham nestled between layers of tender potatoes, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce.
Baked for just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food. You can even add veggies or other proteins to make it your own.