15+ Simple and Delicious Recipes to Use Up Leftover Ham for a Tasty Meal
Leftover ham can be a delightful surprise, turning ordinary meals into something special. With just a few ingredients, you can create satisfying dishes that bring warmth and flavor to your table. Let’s explore some tantalizing recipes that will make you excited to use up that ham!
This breakfast casserole is a hearty way to start your day, blending the savory flavors of ham with creamy cheese and fluffy eggs. It’s baked to perfection, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare ahead of time!
2 cups diced leftover ham
6 eggs
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix)
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onions
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
This casserole is special because it’s a one-pan wonder that can be customized to your taste. You can add veggies like spinach or swap the cheese for your favorite blend. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or simply a cozy morning at home. Plus, leftovers (if you have any) taste even better the next day!
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Medium pasta shells, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, deli ham, mayonnaise Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins.
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This vibrant pasta salad combines the sweetness of peas and the saltiness of ham, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Served cold, it’s refreshing and satisfying, perfect for a picnic or a summer BBQ. The combination of flavors and textures will have your taste buds dancing!
3 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or rotini works great)
This salad shines in the warmer months when you want something light but filling. The creamy dressing blends beautifully with the pasta, ham, and peas, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. It’s also a great way to sneak in some greens and keep things colorful on your plate. Trust me, this salad will become a go-to for gatherings!
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 30 Min. Total Time: 30 min..
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Warm and comforting, ham and potato soup is the ultimate cozy dish for chilly days. The creamy broth, combined with tender potatoes and chunks of ham, creates a heartwarming experience in every spoonful. It’s simple to make and guaranteed to warm your soul!
2 cups diced ham
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup diced onion
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
This soup is a crowd-pleaser because it’s rich and filling, perfect for a family dinner. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option. Plus, it freezes well, so you can enjoy it later when you need a quick meal. Each bowl is like a hug on a cold day!
These ham and cheese quesadillas are a fun and quick meal that the whole family will love. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Pair them with some salsa or guacamole for an extra kick!
4 flour tortillas
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
1 cup diced ham
1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salsa or sour cream for serving
What makes these quesadillas special is their quick preparation and the gooey, melty cheese that pulls apart with each bite. You can also customize them with your favorite veggies or spices to make them your own. They’re great for kids and adults alike, making them a versatile dish for any meal. Plus, they’re done in just minutes!
Ham fried rice is a delicious and quick meal that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and ham. This dish is packed with flavor from soy sauce, sesame oil, and a medley of veggies. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s satisfying and oh-so-tasty!
This recipe is a winner because it’s not only quick to make but also a great way to use up leftovers. You can throw in any vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible option for busy nights. The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil gives it a fantastic umami flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a hit with kids, making it a family favorite!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 55 min Total Time: 55 min.
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These stuffed shells are a delicious twist on traditional pasta dishes, featuring creamy ricotta, spinach, and savory ham all packed into large pasta shells. Baked in marinara sauce and topped with cheese, they’re a comforting and filling meal that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a great way to impress your family or guests!
12 large pasta shells
1 cup diced ham
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 jar marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
This recipe stands out because it combines the heartiness of ham with the creaminess of ricotta and the freshness of spinach, creating a perfect balance of flavors. The stuffed shells are not only delicious but also visually impressive, making them a hit at dinner parties. They’re easy to prepare and can be made in advance, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests. Each bite is like a little pocket of happiness!
