Leftover ham is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into countless delicious dishes. It’s perfect for repurposing into meals that everyone will enjoy.
Here are 27 creative recipes to help you make the most of your leftover ham. Let’s get cooking!
1. Ham and Cheese Quiche
This savory pie combines diced ham, shredded cheese, and a creamy egg custard. The custard is rich and flavorful, perfectly complementing the smoky ham and melted cheese.
Bake it in a pre-made pie crust until golden and set in the center. Serve warm with a crisp side salad for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Full recipe: click here.
2. Ham and Potato Soup
Creamy potato soup gets a savory upgrade with chunks of leftover ham for extra depth. Add onions, celery, and garlic to build layers of flavor in the broth.
Finish with a splash of cream to create a silky, rich texture everyone will love. Serve hot with crusty bread for a cozy, comforting meal.
Full recipe: click here.
3. Ham Fried Rice
Turn leftover ham into a quick and easy one-pan meal with fried rice. Combine diced ham, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables for a balanced and delicious dish.
A splash of soy sauce ties all the flavors together perfectly in minutes. It’s a great option for repurposing both ham and leftover rice efficiently.
Full recipe: click here.
4. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Layer slices of ham, Swiss cheese, and tangy mustard onto soft slider buns. Brush the tops with melted butter mixed with seasonings, then bake until golden and melty.
These sliders are ideal for parties, potlucks, or as an easy dinner option. Serve them warm with chips or a simple green salad on the side.
Full recipe: click here.
5. Split Pea Soup with Ham
Leftover ham adds smoky depth to this classic split pea soup recipe. Simmer dried peas with carrots, onions, and celery until they break down into a creamy texture.
A ham bone can be used for even more flavor, making every bite irresistible. Enjoy with toasted bread for a filling, hearty meal.
Full recipe: click here.
6. Ham and Cheese Omelette
Whip up a fluffy omelette filled with diced ham and your favorite shredded cheese. Add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.
Cook until the eggs are just set and fold the omelette in half to serve. Pair with toast or hash browns for a versatile and easy meal.
Full recipe: click here.
7. Ham and Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines tender white beans, diced ham, and savory aromatic vegetables. Simmer everything together in a seasoned broth until the flavors meld beautifully.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds brightness to this comforting bowl of goodness. It’s a satisfying way to make use of a ham bone and pantry staples.
Full recipe: click here.
8. Ham and Broccoli Casserole
Mix leftover ham with steamed broccoli, a creamy cheese sauce, and cooked rice or pasta. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly and golden for an easy weeknight dinner.
The combination of tender broccoli and smoky ham is both comforting and flavorful. This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Full recipe: click here.
9. Ham and Pineapple Pizza
Top your favorite pizza crust with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, diced ham, and sweet pineapple. Bake until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden and crisp.
The sweet and savory combination makes this a crowd-pleasing favorite. It’s a fun and easy twist on the classic Hawaiian pizza.
Full recipe: click here.
10. Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
Layer thinly sliced potatoes with diced ham, shredded cheese, and a creamy sauce. Bake until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender throughout.
This rich and indulgent dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or family dinner. Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Full recipe: click here.
11. Ham and Grits Casserole
Combine cooked grits with diced ham, cheddar cheese, and a splash of cream. Bake in a casserole dish until set and golden on top for a rich, Southern-inspired dish.
The creamy grits and savory ham make this perfect for breakfast or dinner. Garnish with chives or green onions for a touch of freshness.
Full recipe: click here.
12. Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Mix diced ham, eggs, cheese, and vegetables in a muffin tin and bake until set. These portable breakfast bites are great for meal prep or busy weekday mornings.
Customize with spinach, peppers, or mushrooms to suit your taste preferences. They’re a convenient and protein-packed start to the day.
Full recipe: click here.
13. Ham and Swiss Stromboli
Roll pizza dough with layers of ham, Swiss cheese, and mustard, then bake until golden. Slice into pieces for an appetizer or enjoy as a main dish with a green salad.
The gooey melted cheese and flaky crust make it an instant favorite. Serve with marinara sauce for a tangy dipping option.
Full recipe: click here.
14. Ham and Cheddar Biscuits
Fold diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese into a buttery biscuit dough. Bake until golden and fragrant, then serve warm with butter or a drizzle of honey.
These savory biscuits are excellent as a side dish for soups or as a snack. Their fluffy texture and cheesy flavor make them irresistible.
Full recipe: click here.
15. Ham and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder features sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky chunks of ham. Simmer with milk, broth, and spices for a rich, satisfying soup with incredible depth.
Top with crumbled bacon or green onions for an extra layer of flavor. Ham and Corn Chowder is a warm and hearty meal perfect for leftovers.
Full recipe: click here.
16. Ham and Asparagus Frittata
Whisk together eggs, ham, and tender asparagus spears for a light yet flavorful frittata. Cook until the eggs are just set, then finish under the broiler for a golden top.
Slice into wedges and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs. This is a perfect dish for brunch or an elegant light dinner.
Full recipe: click here.
17. Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
Sauté diced sweet potatoes with onions, peppers, and chunks of ham for a colorful hash. Cook until the sweet potatoes are caramelized and tender, then top with a fried egg.
The combination of smoky ham and sweet potatoes creates a balanced and hearty dish. This is a quick, one-pan meal that’s great for any time of day.
Full recipe: click here.
18. Ham and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Large mushroom caps are stuffed with a mixture of chopped ham, spinach, cream cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
These bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer or party snack. Garnish with parsley for a burst of freshness before serving.
Full recipe: click here.
19. Ham and Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Upgrade classic mac and cheese with diced ham and a blend of sharp cheddar cheese. Bake with a buttery breadcrumb topping for a comforting, golden crust.
The smoky ham adds depth to this creamy, cheesy favorite that everyone will love. Serve as a main dish or a satisfying side.
Full recipe: click here.
20. Ham and Veggie Stir-Fry
Sauté ham with mixed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for a quick stir-fry. Add a simple sauce of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to tie the flavors together.
Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a balanced, wholesome meal. This dish is easy, customizable, and full of vibrant flavors.
Full recipe: click here.
21. Ham and Cauliflower Gratin
Layer steamed cauliflower florets with diced ham and a creamy cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until bubbly and golden for a low-carb comfort food option.
This dish is a great alternative to traditional casseroles and is just as satisfying. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Full recipe: click here.
22. Ham-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuff halved bell peppers with a mixture of diced ham, rice, tomatoes, and cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden and bubbling.
These stuffed peppers are a nutritious and flavorful way to use leftover ham creatively. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for a finishing touch.
Full recipe: click here.
23. Ham and Zucchini Fritters
Grate zucchini and mix with diced ham, eggs, and breadcrumbs to form fritter batter. Pan-fry until golden and crisp, then serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
These fritters are light yet satisfying, making them perfect as an appetizer or snack. The combination of ham and zucchini adds a unique twist to classic fritters.
Full recipe: click here.
24. Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and diced ham. Cover with marinara or Alfredo sauce and bake until bubbly and golden.
The combination of creamy filling and smoky ham creates a hearty, satisfying dish. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a dinner party.
Full recipe: click here.
25. Ham and Lentil Stew
Combine diced ham, lentils, carrots, onions, and garlic in a pot for a hearty stew. Simmer with broth and herbs until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld together.
This protein-packed dish is both nutritious and filling, ideal for colder weather. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Full recipe: click here.
26. Ham and Pea Risotto
Creamy risotto gets a savory twist with diced ham and sweet green peas. The slow cooking process blends the flavors beautifully into the rich Arborio rice.
Stir in Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess and a hint of nutty flavor. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a colorful, satisfying meal.
Full recipe: click here.
27. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese
Thinly sliced ham pairs perfectly with crisp apple slices and gooey melted cheddar. Butter the bread generously and grill until golden and crispy on the outside.
The sweet apple contrasts with the savory ham and cheese for a balanced flavor. Serve with tomato soup for a comforting, nostalgic lunch.
Full recipe: click here.
Final Thoughts
Leftover ham can be transformed into so many delicious meals with a little creativity. Try these recipes to add variety and flavor to your menu.
From casseroles to soups, there’s something here for everyone. Enjoy repurposing your leftovers into something amazing!
Featured image credit to ©momables.
