20 Creative Ways To Use Leftover Ham
Got extra ham lingering in your fridge after a big dinner or holiday feast? Do not let it dry out or get forgotten behind the condiments.
With a little inspiration, those savory slices can become weeknight winners, cozy comfort dishes, and quick grab-and-go lunches. Dive in for easy, flavor-packed ideas that make leftovers feel brand new.
1. Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
When the weather turns chilly, a creamy ham and potato soup hits the spot. Simmer diced ham with onions, carrots, and celery until aromatic, then add potatoes and broth.
Stir in cream for a velvety finish and season with thyme, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika.
You will love how hearty and comforting it feels without being heavy. Serve with crusty bread for dunking and a sprinkle of chives.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a smart use for your leftover ham.
2. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Strata
A breakfast strata is your weekend hero and a weekday lifesaver. Cube day-old bread, toss with ham, cheddar, and spinach, then soak with eggs and milk seasoned with mustard and garlic.
Let it rest so flavors meld, then bake until puffed and golden.
This dish makes mornings effortless because you assemble it ahead. Each bite feels savory and satisfying without fuss.
Serve with fruit or a quick salad, and you have a crowd-pleaser that uses leftovers brilliantly.
3. Hawaiian Ham Fried Rice
Turn leftover rice and ham into a tropical-leaning fried rice. Sear the ham until edges crisp, then stir-fry garlic, peas, carrots, and pineapple for sweet-savory contrast.
Push aside, scramble eggs, fold in rice, and splash with soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil.
Green onions add freshness, while lime brightens everything. You get a quick, balanced meal that feels special yet simple.
Perfect for busy nights when the fridge holds answers.
4. Ham and Swiss Stuffed Pretzel Bites
These stuffed pretzel bites deliver stadium-snack vibes at home. Wrap small cubes of ham and Swiss in pretzel dough, dip in baking soda water, and bake until glossy and browned.
The cheese melts into gooey pockets, and coarse salt adds a satisfying crunch.
Serve with honey mustard or a spicy dijon dip. They freeze well and reheat perfectly for quick snacking.
Great for game day, movie night, or a fun appetizer that rescues leftover ham.
5. Ham, Pea, and Mint Pasta
Fresh, light, and fast, this pasta leans on ham for salty richness. Toss hot pasta with peas, olive oil, lemon zest, and lots of mint.
Add diced ham and a splash of pasta water to bind, then shower with parmesan and cracked pepper.
It is springy without being fussy and works warm or at room temperature. Perfect for lunch boxes or a quick dinner.
The mint brings a breezy lift that keeps leftovers from feeling heavy.
6. Ham and Cheddar Waffles
Savory waffles turn leftover ham into a brunch star. Fold small ham cubes and sharp cheddar into your favorite waffle batter with chives.
Cook until crisp outside and fluffy inside, then drizzle with maple or top with a fried egg.
The sweet-savory combo sings, and the waffles freeze like a dream. Pop them in the toaster for a quick weekday treat.
It is a playful twist that keeps breakfast interesting and delicious.
7. Split Pea Soup with Ham
Classic split pea soup is cozy, thrifty, and deeply satisfying. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery, then add split peas, diced ham, bay leaf, and broth.
Simmer until peas break down into creamy goodness, adjusting with water if needed.
A splash of vinegar at the end brightens the flavors. Serve with buttered toast and black pepper.
This pot yields generous portions, and the flavors improve overnight, making your leftover ham the secret to a perfect bowl.
8. Ham and Broccoli Quiche
Quiche is ideal for repurposing leftovers because it is flexible and elegant. Whisk eggs, milk, and a pinch of nutmeg, then fold in chopped ham, blanched broccoli, and gruyere.
Pour into a par-baked crust and bake until just set.
It slices cleanly and tastes great warm or chilled. Pack for lunch with a side salad or serve at brunch without fuss.
This savory pie makes ham feel brand-new and impressive.
9. Cuban Ham Sliders
Sliders keep party prep easy and flavorful. Layer ham, swiss, pickles, and mustard on sweet rolls, then brush tops with melted butter, garlic, and poppy seeds.
Bake until the cheese melts and edges crisp.
These bite-sized sandwiches deliver tangy, salty, and slightly sweet notes. They are perfect for gatherings, lunchboxes, or quick dinners.
Leftover ham becomes the star of a handheld hit that disappears fast.
10. Ham and Corn Chowder
Sweet corn and salty ham are natural companions. Build flavor by sautéing onion in butter, then adding ham, potatoes, and corn with thyme.
Pour in broth and a splash of cream to create a silky chowder with tender bites.
Top with crispy bacon or smoked paprika for extra depth. This soup feels sunny even on gray days.
It is an easy, comforting way to stretch leftover ham into multiple meals.
11. Ham Fried Egg Rolls
Give egg rolls a ham-centric twist. Stir-fry cabbage, carrots, and scallions until tender, then toss with diced ham and soy.
Wrap tightly in egg roll wrappers and fry or air fry until blistered and crisp.
Serve with sweet chili sauce or hot mustard for contrast. These make fantastic appetizers, party snacks, or lunchbox stars.
They freeze raw, so you can cook from frozen whenever cravings hit.
12. Ham Mac and Cheese Bake
Sometimes comfort calls and mac and cheese answers. Stir diced ham into a creamy cheddar sauce spiked with dijon and paprika.
Fold in al dente pasta, top with buttery crumbs, and bake until bubbling with golden edges.
Each scoop delivers gooey richness and salty pops of ham. Add broccoli or peas if you want a veggie boost.
This dish reheats well, making leftovers the highlight of tomorrow’s lunch.
13. Ham and White Bean Salad
For something lighter, try a hearty bean salad. Toss cannellini beans with ham, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
Dress with lemon, olive oil, and a touch of dijon, then layer over arugula for peppery bite.
It is satisfying without cooking, perfect for warm days or quick desk lunches. Add feta or roasted peppers if you like.
The flavors improve as it sits, so make it ahead and enjoy all week.
14. Ham and Pineapple Skewers
Skewers bring backyard energy to weeknight dinners. Thread ham, pineapple, peppers, and red onion onto sticks.
Brush with a quick glaze of soy, honey, and garlic, then grill or broil until caramelized and smoky.
The sweet-savory balance is unbeatable, and cleanup stays easy. Serve over rice or a crunchy slaw for texture.
These skewers make leftovers feel festive in minutes.
15. Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells turn ham into an Italian-style comfort dish. Mix ricotta, parmesan, spinach, and chopped ham with garlic and pepper.
Fill cooked jumbo shells, nestle into tomato sauce, and top with mozzarella before baking until bubbly.
It is melty, saucy, and great for feeding a crowd or stocking the freezer. Serve with a simple salad and garlic bread.
Your leftover ham finds a decadent new home.
16. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese
Thin apple slices add crisp sweetness to a classic grilled cheese. Stack sharp cheddar, ham, and tart apple between buttered bread.
Griddle until the crust turns golden and the interior melts luxuriously.
A swipe of dijon or hot honey makes it extra special. Pair with tomato soup for peak comfort.
This simple sandwich proves leftover ham can still surprise your taste buds.
17. Ham and Cheddar Scones
Savory scones are portable, cozy, and perfect for brunch or snacks. Fold diced ham, cheddar, and chives into a tender cream scone dough.
Brush with cream, sprinkle flaky salt, and bake until puffed with crispy edges.
Serve warm with butter or a swipe of pepper jelly. They freeze well, so bake extra for busy mornings.
You will love how effortlessly leftovers become bakery-worthy bites.
18. Ham Ramen with Soft Egg
Upgrade instant ramen with ham for a quick, satisfying bowl. Simmer broth with ginger and garlic, then add noodles, corn, and sliced ham.
Finish with soy, a drizzle of chili oil, and a jammy egg.
It is comforting and customizable, great for late nights or desk lunches. Toss in spinach or mushrooms if you have them.
This bowl proves leftovers can be deliciously slurpy.
19. Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
Hash is a clever canvas for leftovers. Crisp diced sweet potatoes in a skillet, then add onions, peppers, and ham.
Season with smoked paprika, cumin, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Top with fried eggs for a satisfying brunch or dinner. Every bite has crunch, sweetness, and savory depth.
It is a one-pan wonder that uses what you already have.
20. Ham and Brie Puff Pastry Twists
These elegant twists look fancy but are easy. Layer thin ham and brie on puff pastry, brush with dijon, and cut into strips.
Twist and bake until flaky and bronzed.
They work as appetizers, lunch sides, or a light bite with soup. A drizzle of hot honey adds contrast that keeps you reaching for another.
Perfect when you want leftovers to feel party-ready.
