Ham is a Holiday staple (at least around here) but we often have a lot left over. These recipes for leftover ham will help you use it up and create delicious meals. Don’t want to eat ham every day? No problem most of these freeze up nicely. You could also freeze the ham itself for later use. 

holiday ham on platter

Related: If you served turkey for your holiday dinner save the carcass and make this amazing turkey noodle soup.

Left Over Ham Ideas

Are you wondering what to do with leftover ham from a recent feast? No need to let it go to waste! Transform those savory slices into mouthwatering meals that are perfect for any occasion. These flavorful recipes will give your leftover ham a delicious second act. From comforting soups to hearty casseroles, get ready to create tasty meals with these ham-inspired dishes!

Ham and Cheese Sliders: An easy recipe to put together and a crowd-pleaser. They are a perfect way to use up leftover ham. You can make them in no time at all and they make a great dinner.  You can freeze your ham and put this together anytime.

ham buns sliders

Cheesy Leftover Ham and Rice Casserole: This delicious left over ham casserole recipe is so easy to make! All you do is toss everything together and bake!

leftover ham and rice casserole

Ham Fried Rice: You can use any kind of meat – chicken, pork, etc. but I am especially fond of ham in fried rice.

fried rice recipe
Fried Rice

Ham and Cheese Quiche: This recipe is the best and freezes up beautifully. I am always asked for the recipe for this classic quiche.

slice of quiche on plate

Breakfast Casserole: If you need an easy brunch recipe just mix up this easy egg bake. I substitute chopped slices of ham for the bacon. My family loves this and I love that it can be made ahead.

serving of egg strata on a plate with a fork holding a bite of it

Ham Sandwiches

Leftover ham is perfect for making delicious sandwiches. Here are a few ideas:

Croque Madame: A Croque Madame is a luxurious French-style sandwich. Layer slices of ham and Gruyere cheese between two slices of bread. Spread béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with more cheese. Grill until golden and crispy, then top with a fried or poached egg for a rich and satisfying treat.

Croque Monsieur: Similar to the Croque Madame, a Croque Monsieur is a French-style ham and cheese sandwich. Layer ham slices and Gruyere cheese between two slices of bread. Spread béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with more cheese. Grill until golden and crispy, creating a luxurious and savory sandwich.

Ham Salad Sandwich: Dice leftover ham and mix it with mayo, Dijon mustard, chopped pickles or relish, diced onions, and celery. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. Spread this delicious ham salad on bread or rolls for a quick and tasty sandwich.

Leftover Ham Soup Recipes

Creamy Ham Chowder: Treat yourself to a creamy, colorful, and low-calorie ham chowder. From crisp onions and carrots to cheesy broccoli florets, this heartwarming, slow-cooked dinner is brimming with healthy and delicious toss-ins— recipe Credit Better Homes & Gardens archives via Mariastreats.com

Creamy Low Cal Ham Chowder

A creamy, colorful, and low calorie ham chowder. From crisp onions and carrots to cheesy broccoli florets, this heartwarming, slow-cooked dinner is brimming with healthy and delicious toss-ins.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes

Equipment

  • 4-quart slow cooker

Ingredients  

  • 12 ounces tiny yellow potatoes cut into ¾-inch pieces
  • 1 cup chopped onion 1 large
  • 2 14½ ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme crushed
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 12 ounce can evaporated fat-free milk 1-1/2 cups
  • ½ cup diced cooked lean ham
  • 1 cup coarsely shredded carrots 2 medium
  • 1 cup broccoli florets steamed
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 ounce
  • 2 teaspoons snipped fresh thyme optional for garnish

Instructions 

  • In a 4-quart slow cooker combine potatoes and onion. Pour broth over vegetables.
  • Cover and cook on high-heat setting for 3 hours.
  • In a medium bowl combine cornstarch, dried thyme, and pepper. Whisk in evaporated milk. Slowly stir the cornstarch mixture, ham, and carrots into the hot soup. Cover and cook for 30 minutes more, stirring the soup occasionally.
  • Serve soup topped with broccoli, cheese, and fresh thyme.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cup | Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 180mg | Potassium: 404mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 3743IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 1mg
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Author: Cindy Hopper

Related: Looking for more easy healthy meals check out these skinny slow cooker recipes.

Simple Ham and Potato Chowder A hearty & flavorful spin on ham chowder and a delicious way to use up leftover ham.

Corn Chowder: Another hearty soup that is made even better with a handful or two of chopped ham.

Split Pea Soup with Ham: Simmer leftover ham with split peas, veggies, and seasonings for a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for utilizing your ham leftovers. Serve with the world’s best cornbread.

split pea soup in white bowl cornbread on side

Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup: This quick and tasty soup uses the leftover ham bone for a flavor-packed meal. My family also requests this Lentil Soup.

lentil soup

Need a few last-minute Holiday ideas for your fabulous feasts?

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About Cindy Hopper

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Comments

  1. Janell, I was able to find the Creamy Ham Chowder recipe and I have updated the post. Thanks so much for letting me know.

  2. My family loves my scalloped potatoes made with Leftover ham. 3 ingredients. Leftover ham of course, Cream of Mushroom soup, and boiled potatoes all mixed together. Quick and easy.

  3. These left over ham recipes look fabulously delicious! I can hardly wait to try them. It makes me want to run out and buy a ham just so I can have leftover ham right away! I love your blog. I hope you’ll visit mine when you have a free moment. Take care, Kelli

  4. These left over ham recipes look fabulously delicious! I can hardly wait to try them. It makes me want to run out and buy a ham just so I can have leftover ham right away! I love your blog. I hope you’ll visit mine when you have a free moment. Take care, Kelli

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