Leftover ham can be a great starting point for many tasty meals. After a big holiday feast, you might find yourself with extra ham in the fridge.

Instead of eating the same thing over and over, why not try some new recipes?

You can use leftover ham in soups, sandwiches, casseroles, and even breakfast dishes. There are many easy and quick options that can turn your leftovers into exciting new meals.

From comforting classics to creative twists, these recipes will help you use up your ham while keeping your meals fresh and interesting.

1. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Ham and cheese breakfast casserole is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You can make it the night before and bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.

Mix cubed bread, diced ham, and shredded cheese in a baking dish. Pour a mixture of eggs, milk, and seasonings over the top.

Let it sit in the fridge overnight to soak up the flavors.

In the morning, pop it in the oven and bake until golden and puffy. The result is a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

You can add veggies like peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

2. Split Pea and Ham Soup

Split pea and ham soup is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. It’s easy to make and very filling.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in split peas, diced ham, and broth. Simmer for about an hour until the peas are soft and the soup is thick.

You can add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This hearty soup is perfect for cold days. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

3. Ham and Potato Frittata

Ham and potato frittata is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch.

To make it, sauté diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a skillet. Add your leftover ham and cook until it’s slightly crispy.

In a bowl, whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ham and vegetables in the skillet.

Cook on the stovetop until the edges start to set. Then sprinkle cheese on top and finish cooking in the oven until golden brown.

This frittata is filling and flavorful. You can customize it with different vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste.

4. Ham and Pineapple Pizza

Ham and pineapple pizza is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by making or buying a pizza crust. Spread tomato sauce on the crust, then add shredded mozzarella cheese.

Cut your leftover ham into small cubes and scatter them over the cheese. Add chunks of fresh or canned pineapple.

Bake the pizza in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The sweet pineapple pairs nicely with the salty ham.

You can customize your pizza by adding other toppings like onions or bell peppers. Enjoy this quick and delicious meal that puts your leftover ham to good use.

5. Ham and Bean Stew

Ham and bean stew is a cozy, filling meal perfect for chilly days. You can easily use your leftover ham to make this hearty dish.

Start by soaking dried beans overnight. Then, cook them with diced ham, onions, carrots, and celery in a flavorful broth.

Add herbs like thyme and bay leaves for extra flavor. Let the stew simmer until the beans are tender and the flavors meld together.

Serve your ham and bean stew with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. It’s a great way to stretch your leftover ham and create a new, delicious dinner.

6. Ham and Swiss Quesadillas

Ham and Swiss quesadillas are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. Start with large flour tortillas as your base. Place shredded Swiss cheese on one half of each tortilla.

Add diced ham on top of the cheese. For extra flavor, you can include sliced pickles or a dash of hot sauce. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the fillings.

Cook the quesadilla in a pan with a bit of butter. Heat it on medium-high until both sides are crispy and golden brown. The cheese should be fully melted.

Cut your quesadilla into wedges and serve it hot. This quick meal works great for lunch or a light dinner.

7. Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and cheese sliders are a tasty way to use leftover ham. These mini sandwiches are easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.

To prepare them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.

Layer sliced ham and cheese on the buns. Popular cheese choices include Swiss or cheddar. Place the top halves of the buns on the sandwiches.

Mix melted butter with Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dried onion. Pour this mixture over the sliders.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and the tops turn golden brown.

These sliders are great for parties, game days, or quick family meals. You can easily customize them by adding different seasonings or toppings to suit your taste.

8. Ham Pasta Salad

Ham pasta salad is a great way to use up leftover ham. Cook pasta according to package directions, then let it cool. Chop your ham into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the pasta and ham with chopped vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and green onions. Add cubed cheddar cheese for extra flavor.

Make a simple dressing with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill. Pour it over the pasta mixture and toss to coat everything evenly.

Chill the salad in the fridge before serving. This dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick lunch.

You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

9. Ham Carbonara

Ham carbonara is a tasty way to use leftover ham. This dish combines pasta, eggs, cheese, and ham for a quick and satisfying meal.

To make it, cook pasta until al dente. While it cooks, mix egg yolks, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.

In a pan, fry diced ham until crispy. Add garlic and cook briefly.

Toss the hot pasta with the egg mixture and ham. The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs, creating a creamy sauce.

Add some pasta water if needed to thin the sauce. Top with extra cheese and black pepper before serving. This easy recipe transforms your leftover ham into a delicious dinner.

10. Ham and Cheese Scones

Ham and cheese scones are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. These savory treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

To make them, mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add diced ham and shredded cheese.

Stir in buttermilk to form a soft dough. Be careful not to overmix. Pat the dough into a circle on a floured surface.

Cut the circle into wedges and place them on a baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden color.

Bake the scones at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes until they’re lightly browned. Serve them warm for the best flavor.

11. Ham and Broccoli Quiche

Ham and broccoli quiche is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You can make this versatile dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

To prepare, you’ll need eggs, cream or half-and-half, cheese, diced ham, and chopped broccoli. Mix these ingredients and pour into a pie crust.

Bake the quiche for about 35-40 minutes. It’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The middle might be slightly jiggly.

This quiche freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time. It’s also easy to customize with different cheeses or veggies based on what you have on hand.

12. Deviled Ham Salad

Deviled ham salad is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. To make it, grind your ham in a food processor until finely minced.

Mix the ground ham with mayonnaise, mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Add some finely diced celery and onion for crunch.

Season your ham salad with a dash of hot sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper to taste. Blend everything together until you reach your desired consistency.

Chill the mixture for a few hours to let the flavors meld. Serve your deviled ham salad on crackers, as a sandwich filling, or with fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

13. Ham and Cheese Stuffed Shells

Ham and cheese stuffed shells are a tasty way to use your leftover ham. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions. Mix diced ham, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella in a bowl.

Spoon the mixture into the cooked shells. Place the filled shells in a baking dish and cover with tomato sauce. Sprinkle extra cheese on top.

Bake the shells at 350°F for about 25 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. You can make it ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

14. Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Cheesy ham and potato soup is a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You’ll need potatoes, ham, cheese, and a few other ingredients.

Start by cooking diced potatoes in chicken broth until tender. In a separate pan, make a roux with butter and flour. Slowly add milk to create a creamy sauce.

Combine the potato mixture and sauce. Add diced ham and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well mixed.

This hearty soup is perfect for cold days. You can customize it by adding veggies like carrots, celery, or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

15. Ham and Cheese Croissants

Ham and cheese croissants are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. Start by slicing croissants in half. Spread some butter and Dijon mustard on each side.

Add slices of ham and cheese to the bottom half. Swiss or cheddar work well. Place the top half back on and brush with beaten egg.

Put the croissants on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F for about 5 minutes. The cheese will melt and the croissants will turn golden brown.

You can also add extras like green onions or a drizzle of honey for more flavor. These make a great quick lunch or snack.

16. Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice is a tasty way to use leftover ham. You can make this dish quickly and easily at home.

Start by cooking some eggs in a hot pan with oil. Set them aside when done. Then sauté diced ham, peas, and carrots in the same pan.

Add cold cooked rice to the pan and mix well. Push everything to one side and scramble more eggs if desired.

Mix all ingredients together and cook until hot. Add soy sauce for extra flavor. This meal is filling and delicious, perfect for using up ham after a big holiday dinner.

17. Ham and Pea Risotto

Ham and pea risotto is a tasty way to use leftover ham. This creamy dish combines rice, ham, peas, and cheese for a satisfying meal.

To make it, sauté onions in butter. Add cubed ham and rice, then gradually stir in warm broth. Cook until the rice is creamy and tender.

Mix in cooked peas and grated cheese at the end. The result is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for cool evenings.

You can customize your risotto by adding other vegetables or herbs. It’s a versatile recipe that lets you use what you have on hand.

18. Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins

Ham and egg breakfast muffins are a tasty way to use leftover ham. They’re quick to make and perfect for busy mornings.

Mix eggs, diced ham, and shredded cheese in a bowl. Add some chopped bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. Pour the mixture into muffin tins.

Bake the muffins at 350°F for about 20 minutes. They’re done when the eggs are set and slightly golden on top.

These muffins are great for meal prep. You can make a batch and reheat them throughout the week. They’re also easy to eat on the go.

19. Ham and Cheddar Biscuits

Ham and cheddar biscuits are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You can make these savory treats in about 30 minutes.

Mix flour, baking powder, salt, and butter in a bowl. Add shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham. Pour in milk or buttermilk and stir until combined.

Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet. Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

These biscuits are great for breakfast or as a side dish. You can serve them warm with butter or use them to make mini sandwiches.

20. Ham Stuffed Peppers

Ham stuffed peppers are a tasty way to use your leftover ham. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds. Boil the peppers for a few minutes to soften them.

Mix diced ham with cooked rice, cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Spoon this mixture into the pepper halves. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.

Bake the peppers at 350°F for about 30 minutes. The cheese will melt and the peppers will become tender. You can top them with extra cheese in the last few minutes of cooking if you like.

This dish is easy to customize. Try adding vegetables like corn or peas to the filling. You can also use different types of cheese for variety.

21. Ham and Spinach Lasagna

Ham and spinach lasagna is a tasty way to use your leftover ham. This dish combines layers of pasta, creamy sauce, ham, and spinach.

To make it, cook lasagna noodles until al dente.

Mix chopped ham with spinach and ricotta cheese.

Layer the noodles, ham mixture, and mozzarella in a baking dish.

Pour a white sauce over each layer.

Repeat until you’ve used all ingredients.

Top with more cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

This lasagna is filling and flavorful. You can make it ahead and reheat for an easy meal later.

22. Ham and Lentil Soup

Ham and lentil soup is a tasty way to use your leftover ham. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for cold days.

To make this soup, you’ll need a ham bone or ham hock. This gives the soup a rich, smoky flavor.

You can also add extra bits of leftover ham for more taste.

Lentils are the star of this dish. They cook quickly and add protein.

Carrots, celery, and onions round out the ingredients.

You can make this soup on the stove, in a slow cooker, or in an instant pot.

It’s easy to adjust based on what you have on hand.

This soup keeps well in the fridge for 4-5 days. You can also freeze it for later.

23. Ham and Cheese Stromboli

Ham and cheese stromboli is a tasty way to use leftover ham.

Start by rolling out pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread a thin layer of honey mustard on the dough.

Layer sliced ham and shredded cheese on top. You can add extras like green onions or bacon bits for more flavor.

Roll up the dough jelly-roll style, starting from a long edge.

Place the roll seam-side down on a baking sheet. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with herbs if desired.

Cut a few slits in the top to let steam escape.

Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.

24. Ham Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese gets even better with leftover ham. Mix cubed ham into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for a hearty meal.

Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Gouda for extra flavor.

Add the ham when you stir in the cheese sauce.

You can bake it with a crunchy topping or serve it straight from the stovetop.

For a complete meal, toss in some peas or broccoli.

This dish reheats well, making it perfect for lunch the next day. You can also freeze portions for an easy future dinner.

25. Ham and Corn Chowder

Ham and corn chowder is a tasty way to use leftover ham. This hearty soup combines diced ham, sweet corn, and potatoes in a creamy broth.

To make it, start by cooking bacon and onions in a large pot. Add potatoes, broth, and seasonings like thyme and pepper.

Let it simmer until the potatoes are almost tender.

Next, stir in corn and diced ham. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

The soup will thicken as it cooks.

You can adjust the thickness by simmering longer or adding more liquid. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

26. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ham and cheese pinwheels are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. They’re easy to make and perfect for snacks or parties.

Start by mixing cream cheese with other ingredients like shredded cheese and herbs.

Spread this mixture on tortillas or puff pastry.

Add a layer of thinly sliced ham on top.

Roll everything up tightly, then chill the rolls in the fridge.

Slice the chilled rolls into rounds to create pinwheels.

If using puff pastry, brush with egg wash and bake until golden brown.

These pinwheels are versatile. You can serve them cold as appetizers or warm as a quick meal.

27. Ham and Asparagus Tart

This tasty tart combines leftover ham with fresh asparagus for a delightful meal. You’ll need puff pastry, dijon mustard, ham, asparagus, and gruyere cheese.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and place it in a tart pan. Trim the edges for a neat look.

Spread dijon mustard on the pastry base. Top it with chopped ham, asparagus spears, and grated gruyere cheese.

Bake until the pastry is golden and the cheese melts.

This tart works great for brunch or a light dinner. You can customize it by adding other veggies or herbs you like.

28. Ham Breakfast Burritos

Ham breakfast burritos are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. You can make them quickly for a satisfying morning meal.

Start by scrambling eggs with a splash of cream or milk.

Add diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese to the eggs as they cook.

Warm up some tortillas and spoon the egg mixture into the center.

You can add extras like hash browns or diced potatoes for more flavor and texture.

Roll up the tortillas tightly to form burritos.

Serve them right away with salsa or hot sauce on the side.

These burritos also freeze well. Make a big batch and wrap them individually for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

29. Ham and Cheese Omelet

Ham and cheese omelets are a tasty way to use leftover ham. You’ll need eggs, milk, ham, cheese, and some seasonings.

Beat the eggs and milk in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Chop your leftover ham into small pieces.

Heat butter in a non-stick pan. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds.

Add the ham and shredded cheese to one half of the omelet.

Fold the other half over the fillings. Cook until the eggs are set and the cheese melts.

Slide onto a plate and enjoy your quick, protein-packed meal.

30. Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese

This sandwich takes grilled cheese to the next level. Start with two slices of hearty bread. Spread butter on the outside of each slice.

Layer thin slices of leftover ham and crisp apple inside.

Add your favorite cheese – cheddar works great.

Cook the sandwich in a pan over medium heat.

Press it down with a spatula as it cooks. Flip when the first side turns golden brown.

The result is a delicious mix of salty ham, sweet apple, and gooey melted cheese.

This quick meal is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. You can customize it with different types of bread, cheese, or apple to suit your taste.

31. Creamy Ham and Mushroom Pasta

This dish turns leftover ham into a tasty pasta meal. Start by sautéing mushrooms with herbs in olive oil until cooked. Cook your pasta in a separate pot until al dente.

Add diced ham to the mushrooms and mix gently.

Make a creamy sauce by melting butter, adding garlic, and whisking in flour.

Slowly pour in chicken broth and cream, stirring constantly.

Combine the pasta with the ham, mushrooms, and sauce.

Mix well to coat everything evenly. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

32. Ham and Cheese Pizza Rolls

Ham and cheese pizza rolls are a tasty way to use up leftover ham. To make them, you’ll need pizza dough, ham, cheese, and pizza sauce.

Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle. Spread a thin layer of sauce over it.

Add chopped ham and shredded cheese on top.

Roll up the dough from the long side to create a log. Cut it into slices about 1/2 inch thick. Place the slices on a baking sheet.

Bake the rolls until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted.

These pizza rolls make a great snack or meal. You can serve them with extra sauce for dipping.

33. Ham and Egg Fried Noodles

Ham and egg fried noodles are a tasty way to use up leftover ham.

Start by cooking your favorite noodles until they’re al dente.

In a large skillet or wok, fry diced ham until it’s slightly crispy.

Push the ham to one side and scramble some eggs in the pan.

Add the cooked noodles to the pan along with soy sauce, garlic, and green onions.

Stir-fry everything together until the noodles are heated through and coated in sauce.

Serve your ham and egg fried noodles hot. You can top them with extra green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

34. Ham Hashbrown Casserole

This comforting dish combines leftover ham with crispy hashbrowns and gooey cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for using up holiday ham.

Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Mix frozen hashbrowns, diced ham, condensed soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large bowl.

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Bake for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

You can customize this casserole by adding sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to please the whole family.

35. Ham and Brie Sandwich

Elevate your leftover ham with a gourmet Ham and Brie Sandwich. Start with two slices of crusty bread. Spread a thin layer of sweet mustard on one slice.

Layer thin slices of leftover ham on the mustard.

Add a generous amount of creamy brie cheese on top of the ham.

Place the second slice of bread on top and butter the outside of both slices.

Grill the sandwich in a pan over medium heat until golden brown and the brie is melted.

Cut your sandwich diagonally and enjoy the perfect blend of salty ham and rich, gooey brie.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage helps keep leftover ham fresh and tasty. Freezing allows you to save ham for later use. Here are key tips to store and freeze your ham safely.

Proper Storage Techniques

• Store leftover ham in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
• Put it in airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Keep ham in the coldest part of your fridge, usually the back.
• Cooked ham stays good for 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Check for signs of spoilage like odd smells or slimy texture before eating.
• To extend shelf life, slice ham before storing. This makes it easier to use small amounts as needed.
• Label containers with the date to track freshness.

Freezing Leftover Ham

• Freeze ham to keep it for up to 2 months.
• Wrap ham tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Slice or cube ham before freezing for easy portioning.
• Freeze ham in small amounts you’ll use at once to avoid refreezing.
• Thaw frozen ham in the fridge overnight.
• Use thawed ham within 3-4 days.
• Don’t refreeze thawed ham unless you cook it first.
• For best quality, use frozen ham within 1-2 months. While it stays safe longer, taste and texture may change over time.

Nutritional Benefits of Ham

Ham offers several health benefits when included as part of a balanced diet. It provides important nutrients that can support your overall well-being.

Protein and Vitamins

• Ham is a good source of protein. Your body needs protein to build and repair tissues. A 3-ounce serving of ham gives you about 19 grams of protein.
• Ham also contains B vitamins. These help your body turn food into energy. They’re key for brain function too.
• You’ll find vitamin B1, B3, B6, and B12 in ham. These support your nervous system and help make red blood cells.
• Ham offers some minerals as well. It has zinc, which aids immune function. It also provides selenium, an antioxidant that protects your cells.

Low-Carbohydrate Option

Ham is naturally low in carbs. This makes it a good choice if you’re watching your carb intake.

A typical serving of ham has less than 1 gram of carbs. This can fit well into low-carb or keto diets.

Ham’s protein content can help you feel full. This may aid in weight management.

Protein takes longer to digest than carbs.

Remember, ham can be high in sodium. Choose low-sodium options when possible.

Balance your ham intake with plenty of fruits and veggies for a healthy diet.