Transform Leftover Ham into Delicious Meals: 15+ Delicious and Easy Recipes for Leftover Ham

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Discover a variety of delicious and budget-friendly recipes for leftover ham. From casseroles and soups to omelets and sandwiches, we've got you covered. Learn tips and tricks for reheating, shredding and freezing your leftover ham to make the most of your leftovers. Try out these creative and satisfying recipes using leftover ham today!

 

 

Tips for Reheating and Shredding Leftover Ham

It might be challenging to reheat and shred leftover ham, but with the appropriate methods, you can produce perfectly cooked and shredded pork that is suitable for use in a range of recipes. The following advice will help you reheat and shred leftover ham:

1. Reheating: The oven is the ideal place to reheat leftover ham. Wrap the ham in foil and preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. It should be roasted all the way through in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes per pound. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but to avoid drying out, use a microwave-safe dish and cook it on medium power for brief intervals while stirring in between.
2. Shredding: The easiest way to shred leftover ham is to use a fork. Hold the fork in one hand and use the tines to pull the meat apart. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Cut the ham into small chunks, place it in the mixer and let the machine do the work for you.
3. Using a fork to shred leftover ham is the simplest method. Use one hand to hold the fork while pulling the meat apart with the tines. A stand mixer with the paddle attachment can also be used. Slice the ham into little pieces, add it to the mixer, and let the device handle the rest.
4. Before reheating the ham, you can add flavor by sprinkling it with herbs or spices.
5. Once the ham has been roasted through and shred, be sure to put it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to avoid it drying out.

 

 

Tips for Freezing Leftover Ham

Variations on Classic Ham Recipes

 

There are many traditional recipes that may be used with leftover ham, including simple  leftover ham dinner recipes, ham and potato soup, ham and pineapple pizza, and ham and egg breakfast casseroles. But why not try something else and shake things up a little? Here are some modernized versions of tried-and-true dishes that will encourage readers to branch out:

1. Breakfast casserole with ham and eggs: For more taste and nutrition, try adding additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Additionally, you can use cheeses like as gouda, feta, or cheddar.
2. Cream and thyme can be added to ham and potato soup to make it creamier. For additional taste and nutrients, you may also add some carrots and celery.
3. Pizza with ham and pineapple may also be made with peaches, apricots, or mangoes in place of the pineapple for a sweet and savory variation. For an extra spicy sensation, you can also add some jalapenos.
4. Use several kinds of cheese, such as cheddar, gruyere, or gouda, in your ham and broccoli quiche for a taste boost. For additional taste, you can also add some herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
5. Use different beans in your ham and bean salad, such as cannellini, black, or kidney beans. Veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber can also be added.

These are merely a few suggestions to get you going. When it comes to inventive and delectable ways to use leftover ham, the options are unlimited. To make the most of their leftover ham, exhort readers to be inventive and experiment with various ingredients and flavors.

 

Budget-Friendly Ham Recipes

A wonderful method to stretch your money and make your meals go farther is by using leftover ham. But sometimes it might be difficult to come up with recipes that are affordable and maximize the use of this commodity. Here are a few low-cost dishes that stretch your leftover ham and make it last longer by incorporating other ingredients:

 

Ham and Bean Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked ham, diced
• 1 can of navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of chopped carrots
• 2 cups of chopped celery
• 2 cups of chicken broth or stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the diced ham, navy beans, chopped carrots, chopped celery, chicken broth or stock, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the soup hot and enjoy.

Cooked ham leftovers can be stretched out and used in this recipe. The soup has a good texture and flavor because to the navy beans, and it also has a rich flavor thanks to the thyme and oregano. For this dish, you can substitute any other beans you choose. Making a nice and hearty soup with the ingredients from this recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Enjoy!

 

 

Ham and Egg Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked white rice
• 1 cup of diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup of frozen peas
• 1/2 cup of diced carrots
• 1/2 cup of diced onions
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the diced ham, frozen peas, and diced carrots, and stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Push the mixture to one side of the skillet and add the beaten eggs.
6. Scramble the eggs until they are cooked and then mix them with the vegetables and ham.
7. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Stir in the soy sauce, salt and pepper.
9. Cook the fried rice for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
10. Serve the fried rice hot and enjoy.

Use up any cooked rice and ham leftovers with this recipe. Vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce combine to create a tasty and filling dish. This dish is also a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. It is inexpensive and adaptable to your preferences by including your preferred vegetables or herbs. Enjoy your homemade fried rice with ham and eggs!

 

 

Ham and Pea Pasta

Ingredients:

• 8 oz of cooked pasta of your choice
• 1 cup of cooked and diced ham
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
2. Add the diced ham and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the ham is heated through.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
6. Cook the pasta for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy.

Using up cooked pasta and ham leftovers is easy with this dish. It has a rich and creamy sauce thanks to the addition of peas, cream, and spices. This dish is also a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. It is inexpensive and adaptable to your preferences by including your preferred vegetables or herbs. Enjoy your handmade pasta with ham and peas!

You can make the most of your leftover ham by adding inexpensive components like beans, potatoes, and vegetables to your dish. Making the most of your leftover ham without spending a fortune is easy with these recipes.

 

Gluten-free and Low-carb Recipes

 

Many people today are looking for gluten-free and low-carb options to fit their dietary needs. Here are a few gluten-free and low-carb recipes using leftover ham that may appeal to your readers:

 

Ham and Egg Breakfast Bowl

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1 cup diced vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach)
• 1 teaspoon herbs or spices of your choice (such as parsley, thyme, or cumin)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are well combined.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced vegetables of your choice until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced ham to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the beaten eggs to the skillet and stir continuously to cook the eggs and combine them with the vegetables and ham.
5. Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Season the mixture with your choice of herbs or spices, and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the mixture in a bowl and enjoy.

A fantastic low-carb and gluten-free alternative for breakfast is this meal. To make it more unique, you can add whatever vegetables, herbs, or spices you like. If you want to make it more decadent, you may also add cheese or sour cream. Enjoy!

 

Ham and Vegetable Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 2 cups mixed diced vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, lettuce, arugula, etc)
• 2 tablespoons vinaigrette or low-carb dressing of your choice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham and mixed diced vegetables.
2. Add the vinaigrette or low-carb dressing of your choice to the bowl and toss everything together until the vegetables and ham are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the salad in a bowl or on a plate and enjoy.

This recipe is a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free supper choice. To tailor it even further, use whatever vegetables you choose and any vinaigrette or low-carb dressing. To make it richer, you can also add cheese or nuts.

 

 

Ham and Cauliflower Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, riced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup mixed diced vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, peas)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon herbs or spices of your choice (such as parsley, thyme, or cumin)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a food processor, pulse the cauliflower florets until they resemble rice.
2. In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the diced ham and mixed diced vegetables to the skillet, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet, and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and herbs or spices, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the cauliflower fried rice in a bowl and enjoy.

This recipe is a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free supper choice. To customise it further, you can add any herbs or spices you like, as well as any veggies. For more protein, you may also include some almonds or a fried egg.

Ham and Zucchini Noodle Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 zucchinis, spiralized
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 2 cups mixed diced vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, peas)
• 1 cup low-carb sauce of your choice (such as marinara, Alfredo, or pesto)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese of your choice (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis and set them aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced vegetables of your choice until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the diced ham to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the low-carb sauce of your choice.
6. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. In a baking dish, layer half of the zucchini noodles, then half of the ham and vegetable mixture, then repeat the layers.
8. If using, sprinkle grated cheese on top of the casserole.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

 

Ham and Broccoli Omelet

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon butter or oil
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup steamed and diced broccoli
• 1/4 teaspoon herbs or spices of your choice (such as parsley, thyme, or cumin)

Directions:

1. In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or oil.
3. Add the diced ham and steamed and diced broccoli to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and broccoli, and stir to combine.
5. Cook the omelet for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
6. Gently flip the omelet over, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is golden brown.
7. Sprinkle herbs or spices of your choice on top of the omelet.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and slide the omelet onto a plate.
9. Serve the omelet and enjoy.

This recipe is a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free breakfast choice. To make it more unique, you can add whatever herbs or spices you like. For more taste, you might also include cheese or sour cream. Making a nice and nutritious meal with leftover ham and broccoli is easy with this omelet. Enjoy!

You may use leftover ham to produce tasty and healthful dishes that will appeal to readers with dietary constraints by utilizing gluten-free and low-carb products in place of conventional components.

 

In this post, we looked at some of the most inventive and delectable ways to use up leftover ham. We've given a range of recipes that will help you make the most of your leftover ham, from breakfast casseroles to soups, quiches, pizzas, and salads. Various adaptations of traditional recipes, meal preparation suggestions, cost-effective recipe ideas, gluten-free and low-carb options, and advice for freezing leftover ham have also been covered.

It's significant to note that there are a plethora of uses for leftover ham, and there are infinite creative alternatives when using this product. To get the most out of your leftover ham, we urge you to try these dishes and experiment with various ingredients and spices.

And, don't forget to share your own favorite ways to use up leftover ham. Whether it's a recipe you've created or a unique twist on a classic dish, we'd love to hear from you. Be sure to share your thoughts and creations on our website.

By following these tips, you'll be able to make the most of your leftover ham and enjoy it in a variety of delicious and creative ways. So, don't let that leftover ham go to waste, put it to good use with these recipes and ideas.

 

Bonus tips: How to store leftover ham?

You'll probably have some leftover ham from your holiday feast that you'll want to freeze for later. The following advice can help you preserve leftover ham for future use:

1. Ham that has been cooked can be kept in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. You keep it from drying out, make sure to carefully wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
2. Cooked ham can also be frozen and kept there for up to two months. To avoid freezer burn, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or to put it in an airtight container or resealable bag.
3. Uncooked ham: Ham that hasn't been cooked should be kept in the refrigerator and eaten or frozen within seven days.
4. Slices of leftover ham can be kept in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
5. For up to two months, cooked ham leftovers can be frozen.

It's crucial to remember that ham should be kept in a temperature range of 40°F or lower (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth. When the ham is prepared for use, make sure to defrost it in the fridge or the microwave and cook it to the right temperature to eradicate any bacteria that could still be present.

By following these tips, you'll be able to store your leftover ham and enjoy it later, without compromising its quality and safety.

 

Ham and Vegetable Egg Muffins

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup mixed diced vegetables of your choice (such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese of your choice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the muffin tin

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are well combined.
3. Stir in the diced ham, mixed diced vegetables, grated cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture evenly into the muffin cups.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the egg muffins are cooked through and golden brown on top.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.
7. Serve the egg muffins and enjoy.

These egg muffins are a fantastic low-carb and gluten-free breakfast choice. They are simple to make, and you can customize them by using any cheese and vegetables of your choice. Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up ham and veggie leftovers. They are great for meal planning and may be frozen for up to two months or kept in the refrigerator for a few days. For an efficient breakfast on the run, reheat them in the oven or microwave. Enjoy!

 

 

Ham and Cheese Panini 

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 4 slices of cooked ham
• 4 slices of fontina cheese
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 avocado, peeled and sliced
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat a panini press or a grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
3. Place a slice of ham and a slice of fontina cheese on two of the slices of bread, butter side down.
4. Add the sliced red bell pepper, avocado, and Swiss cheese on top of the ham and fontina cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top of the sandwich, butter side up.
7. Place the sandwich on the preheated panini press or grill pan and press down gently.
8. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove from the press and cut the sandwich in half.
10. Serve and enjoy.

Making a hearty and savory sandwich using leftover ham is simple and delicious with this panini. The sourdough bread, Swiss cheese, red bell pepper, avocado, and fontina cheese combine to create a delicious sandwich. Making a wonderful lunch or dinner with the help of this recipe is also a terrific way to use up leftover food. Enjoy!

 

 

Ham and Pea Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or stock
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute or until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken broth or stock, diced ham, frozen peas, dried thyme, and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot and enjoy.

Using up cooked ham that has been left over is easy with this dish. The thyme gives the soup a lovely scent and depth of flavor, and the peas add a nice texture and flavor. To make it more filling, you can also add potatoes, carrots, or other veggies of your choice. Before serving, you might also add some chopped parsley or chives. Making a nice and hearty soup with the ingredients from this recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Enjoy!

 

 

Spaghetti Carbonara with Ham

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
2. While the spaghetti is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced ham, minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the ham is heated through.
4. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the ham and garlic. Toss to combine.
5. Remove skillet from the heat and pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti, toss quickly to coat the spaghetti with the sauce.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, and serve.

Using up cooked ham that has been left over is easy with this dish. A traditional Italian dish that is quick to prepare and flavorful is spaghetti carbonara. The ham gives the meal a good texture and flavor. Making a wonderful and comforting meal with these leftover items is another fantastic benefit of this recipe. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Venezuelan Ham Bread (Pan de Jamon)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb of prepared sweet bread dough
• 1/2 lb of diced cooked ham
• 1/2 lb of grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped green olives
• 1/4 cup of raisins
• 1/4 cup of capers
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sweet bread dough into a rectangle shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Spread the diced ham, grated mozzarella cheese, chopped green olives, raisins, and capers over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll the dough tightly, starting from the long side, to form a log shape.
5. Place the log on the prepared baking sheet, and brush it with the beaten egg.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
8. Serve and enjoy.

This recipe, which is a classic Venezuelan meal, is a terrific way to use up cooked ham that has been left over. A sweet bread roll called a pan de jamon is packed with ham, cheese, olives, raisins, and capers for the ideal balance of savory and sweet. Although you can eat this meal any time of the year, it's a terrific alternative for Christmas or New Year's Eve. By including your preferred ingredients, you can make it your own. Take pleasure in your homemade pan de jamón!

 

 

Ham and Cheese Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 8 oz of elbow macaroni
• 2 cups of diced cooked ham
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once hot, add the flour and stir to create a roux.
4. Slowly add the heavy cream and milk while stirring, bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
6. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cooked macaroni and diced ham to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
9. If desired, top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Making a classic meal heartier and more flavorful with leftover cooked ham is easy with this recipe. It has a rich and tasty sauce thanks to the cheddar cheese, cream, and ham combo. This dish is also a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch. It is inexpensive and adaptable to your preferences by including your preferred vegetables or herbs. Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese with ham!