20 Creative Ways To Use Leftover Ham
Got a mountain of leftover ham and zero inspiration? You are in the right kitchen. These creative, practical ideas help you turn scraps into star meals without wasting time or flavor. Grab a fork and let the transformation begin.
1. Ham and Cheddar Breakfast Burritos
Wrap warm tortillas around scrambled eggs, melty cheddar, and juicy ham for a satisfying breakfast that beats the drive-through. Add peppers, onions, or spinach for color and crunch, then roll everything tight. Freeze extras for busy mornings and reheat in minutes.
A quick salsa or hot sauce drizzle brightens the richness without extra effort. You can swap cheddar for pepper jack if you crave extra heat. Serve with coffee and fruit for a complete, comforting start to your day.
2. Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Simmer diced ham with potatoes, onion, and celery in a rich, creamy broth until everything becomes spoon-tender. A little garlic and thyme make the kitchen smell incredible. Finish with cream or half-and-half for velvety body that feels luxurious yet familiar.
Serve with crusty bread to mop up every drop, or sprinkle sharp cheddar over the top. You can lighten it with milk and a cornstarch slurry if you prefer. Either way, this bowl warms you right through.
3. Ham Fried Rice with Peas
Use day-old rice, sizzle a little oil, and stir-fry ham until edges caramelize. Add peas, carrots, and scallions for cheerful pops of color. Push everything aside, scramble eggs in the same pan, then fold it all together with soy sauce and sesame oil.
A pinch of white pepper and ginger wakes the whole dish up. You can toss in pineapple for sweetness or chili flakes for heat. This fast, flexible favorite makes leftovers feel brand new.
4. Ham and Swiss Stuffed Pretzels
Make simple pretzel dough, then tuck ham and Swiss inside before twisting into classic shapes. A quick baking soda bath gives that signature chew and shine. Sprinkle coarse salt, bake until bronzed, and let the cheese peek through.
Dip into tangy mustard or creamy beer cheese for a snack that disappears fast. You can form pretzel bites for parties or game day. These handheld pockets deliver deli flavors with bakery charm.
5. Ham and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Toss hot pasta with tender broccoli, diced ham, and a silky Alfredo sauce. Spread into a casserole, shower with mozzarella, and bake until bubbling around the edges. The salty ham balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
Use store-bought sauce for speed or whisk your own with butter, cream, and Parmesan. Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth and depth. This comforting bake makes weeknights feel a little more special without extra fuss.
6. Split Pea Soup with Ham
Simmer split peas in a pot with aromatics, bay leaf, and diced ham until thick and creamy. The ham infuses the broth with smoky depth as the peas break down. Stir occasionally to keep the bottom from catching.
Finish with vinegar or lemon to brighten the earthy flavors. A drizzle of olive oil and cracked pepper add a final flourish. It is humble, filling, and exactly what a chilly day needs.
7. Ham and Pineapple Skewers
Thread ham, pineapple, peppers, and onions on skewers, then brush with sweet chili sauce. Grill until caramelized and lightly charred. The juicy fruit softens salty bites for that classic sweet and savory balance.
Serve over coconut rice or salad for a breezy dinner. You can swap the glaze for teriyaki or honey lime. These skewers feel festive and taste like sunshine even on weeknights.
8. Ham and Spinach Quiche
Blind-bake a buttery crust, then fill with ham, wilted spinach, and shredded Gruyere. Pour over a custard of eggs and cream, season simply, and bake until just set. The edges puff and the center stays silky.
Serve warm or at room temperature with a crisp salad. It keeps well, making breakfasts and lunches feel effortless. Every slice tastes like a cafe treat without leaving your kitchen.
9. Ham Mac and Cheese Cups
Stir ham into extra-cheesy macaroni, then spoon into a greased muffin tin. Top with buttery crumbs and bake until edges crisp. The cups pop out tidy, perfect for kids, parties, or lunchboxes.
Add broccoli or peas to sneak in greens. Sharp cheddar and a little Dijon make the flavor sing. These bites deliver comfort you can hold in your hand, no fork needed.
10. Ham Ramen with Soft Eggs
Warm a light broth with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then add noodles and slivers of ham. Slide in jammy eggs and top with scallions and nori. A little sesame oil brings aromatic richness without heaviness.
You can toss in spinach or mushrooms for extra body. Chili crisp wakes everything up when you crave heat. This bowl is quick comfort that tastes way bigger than the effort.
11. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese
Stack ham with sharp cheddar and thin apple slices between buttered bread. Griddle gently until the cheese melts and the crust turns golden. The sweet crunch contrasts beautifully with salty, smoky notes.
Brush a little honey mustard inside for extra zing. Use sourdough for sturdiness and flavor. Pair with tomato soup and lunch suddenly feels like a treat rather than leftovers.
12. Ham and Corn Chowder
Build flavor by sautéing onions in butter, then stir in ham, corn, and diced potatoes. Pour in broth and a splash of cream, simmering until hearty and thick. The sweet corn balances the savory ham beautifully.
Smoked paprika adds gentle warmth without stealing the show. Top with chives or crispy bacon if you have some. A bowl of this chowder feels like a hug after a long day.
13. Ham Cobb Salad
Chop romaine and arrange neat rows of ham, avocado, hard boiled eggs, tomatoes, and blue cheese. Drizzle with ranch or a punchy vinaigrette. The textures make every forkful interesting and satisfying.
Toast some croutons if you want extra crunch. Pack it for lunch because it travels well and stays fresh. This salad proves leftovers can be vibrant, not boring.
14. Ham and Pea Risotto
Toast Arborio rice in butter, then stir in ladlefuls of warm broth until creamy and tender. Fold in ham and peas near the end so they stay bright. Finish with Parmesan, lemon zest, and a knob of butter.
Keep stirring gently for that signature silkiness. A squeeze of lemon lifts the richness and keeps bites lively. Serve immediately while glossy and luxurious.
15. Ham Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix cooked rice with diced ham, tomatoes, onions, and a little cheese, then pack into halved peppers. Bake until tender and bubbling on top. The peppers sweeten and soften, cradling the savory filling.
Add herbs like oregano or basil to lean Italian. A spoon of pesto transports the flavor even further. These colorful boats make dinner feel organized and cheerful.
16. Ham and Mushroom Pizza
Stretch dough thin and spread a light layer of sauce. Scatter ham, mushrooms, and mozzarella, then bake hot until blistered and bubbly. The salty ham punches through the woodsy mushrooms beautifully.
Finish with basil and a drizzle of olive oil. You can use white sauce for a richer twist. Slice, share, and watch the leftovers vanish by the second slice.
17. Ham Nachos with Jalapenos
Spread chips on a sheet pan and blanket them with chopped ham and cheese. Add jalapenos, black beans, and corn for color and heft. Bake until molten, then dollop sour cream and sprinkle cilantro.
Squeeze lime over the top so everything pops. You can add pineapple for a sweet twist. These nachos are messy, satisfying, and perfect for movie night snacking.
18. Ham and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Stir diced ham into ricotta with spinach, Parmesan, and seasoning. Spoon into cooked jumbo shells, nestle in marinara, and top with mozzarella. Bake until the sauce shimmers and the cheese stretches.
A little lemon zest adds brightness that keeps bites lively. Serve with garlic bread and a simple salad. This dish transforms leftovers into an Italian-inspired centerpiece.
19. Ham Hash with Crispy Potatoes
Fry diced potatoes in a cast iron skillet until deeply crisp. Stir in ham, peppers, and onions, letting edges char slightly. Season boldly with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Top with fried eggs so the yolks become a silky sauce. A splash of hot sauce ties everything together. This hash is hearty, flexible, and ready whenever you are.
20. Ham and Asparagus Pasta Primavera
Blanch asparagus until crisp tender, then toss with hot pasta, ham, and cherry tomatoes. Dress lightly with olive oil, lemon zest, and Parmesan. The ham provides savory backbone while vegetables keep everything bright.
Add a splash of pasta water to make a silky emulsion. Red pepper flakes bring gentle heat without overpowering spring flavors. Dinner tastes fresh and lively in under 30 minutes.
