Hello there, foodie! Are you still feeling the post-holiday blues? Do you have some leftover ham sitting in your refrigerator that you don’t know what to do with? Fret not because you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will share with you some amazing leftover ham recipes that you can whip up in minutes.
There’s nothing quite like a delicious and juicy ham for the holidays, but it can be challenging to know what to do with the leftovers. Fortunately, there are tons of options, from simple and classic dishes to more creative and unexpected recipes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy meal idea for yourself, these leftover ham recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and save you time in the kitchen.
Delicious Leftover Ham Recipes
Soups and Stews
When it’s chilly outside, nothing warms you up like a steaming bowl of soup or stew. And what could be better than using your leftover ham in these comforting dishes? One popular option is ham and bean soup, which is not only hearty, but also easy to make. Simply saute onions and garlic in a large pot, then add diced ham, beans, broth, and your choice of seasonings. Let everything simmer for a few hours, and voila! You have a satisfying meal that will feed the whole family.
If you’re in the mood for something creamier, try making ham and potato soup. This recipe combines leftover ham, potatoes, carrots, onions, and heavy cream for a soup that’s both rich and comforting. Or, for a dish that’s packed with veggies, whip up a hearty ham and vegetable stew. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover veggies from other meals, such as carrots, corn, and green beans. Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for an easy and satisfying meal.
Casseroles and Pastas
If you need a quick and easy dinner idea, look no further than ham and cheese casserole. This cheesy dish is a crowd pleaser, and a great way to use up leftover ham. Simply mix cooked pasta, ham, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup together in a casserole dish, then bake until bubbly and golden brown. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, try making ham and broccoli pasta. This recipe uses whole wheat spaghetti, fresh broccoli florets, and leftover ham for a dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
For a comforting casserole that’s perfect for a cozy night in, whip up a ham and noodle casserole. This recipe combines cooked noodles, leftover ham, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese for a dish that’s sure to satisfy. It’s easy to customize, too – feel free to add in any extra veggies or spices you have on hand. Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Breakfast and Brunch
Don’t forget about using your leftover ham in breakfast and brunch dishes, too! One delicious option is ham and egg breakfast casserole. This recipe combines diced ham, eggs, cheese, and bread for a savory breakfast dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Or, for something portable, try making ham and cheese breakfast burritos. Simply scramble some eggs, add in diced ham and cheese, and wrap everything up in a tortilla. These burritos are easy to reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast on the go.
For something a little fancier, make a ham and vegetable frittata. This fluffy egg dish is packed with veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers, as well as leftover ham and cheese. It’s perfect for a special occasion brunch or a lazy weekend morning. Serve with a side of fruit and some coffee or tea for a complete meal.
No matter what type of meal you’re in the mood for, there’s sure to be a leftover ham recipe that fits the bill. Whether you’re making a cozy soup or stew, a comforting casserole or pasta dish, or a savory breakfast or brunch item, using your leftover ham is a great way to reduce waste and create delicious meals that your whole family will love. So, don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen – your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
Tips for Storing and Using Leftover Ham
One of the best things about ham is its versatility. A single ham can make several meals, perfect for feeding your family for days. But what do you do with all that leftover ham? Here are some tips for storing and using leftover ham in creative and satisfying ways.
Proper Storage
When it comes to storing leftover ham, the most important thing is to do it safely to avoid the risk of food poisoning. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Store leftover ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate cooked ham for no more than 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
- If you want to use leftover ham later, separate it into smaller portions that you can easily thaw.
- Be sure to reheat your ham thoroughly to at least 165°F before eating it.
Creative Uses
One of the best ways to use leftover ham is to incorporate it into a variety of dishes. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also add flavor and protein to your meals. Here are some ideas for using up that delicious ham:
- Create a delicious omelet by adding chopped ham, cheese, and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Make a flavorful ham salad by mixing diced ham with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a bit of mustard. Serve on bread or crackers for an easy lunch.
- Use ham as a pizza topping! Add slices of ham to your favorite pizza dough along with other toppings like cheese, mushrooms, and onions.
- Include ham in your favorite salads for an extra boost of protein. Diced ham pairs perfectly with greens like spinach, arugula, and mixed baby lettuces.
Meal Planning
With a little bit of planning, you can make the most out of your leftover ham. Incorporating it into your meal plans can be economical and help cut down on food waste. Here are some ways you can plan your meals around leftover ham:
- Batch cooking: Plan on cooking a large ham so you have plenty of leftovers. Use the ham in a variety of dishes throughout the week.
- Meal prepping: Prep your meals for the week ahead by adding diced ham to your favorite casseroles and soups.
- Weekly Meal Plans: Plan to use leftover ham in a variety of dishes for the week, from breakfast to lunch to dinner. Get creative and have fun experimenting with new recipes.
With these tips, you can stretch your ham dishes even further and enjoy new flavors and dishes while avoiding food waste. Happy cooking!
Thanks for Reading and Happy Cooking!
We hope that you’re now inspired to make the most out of your leftover ham and try out some of the amazing recipes we’ve shared. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can transform your ham into a variety of delicious dishes that your family will surely love. Don’t let your ham go to waste, and instead, make it a star ingredient in your next meal.
We’re grateful that you’ve taken the time to read our article, and we encourage you to visit our site again for more exciting recipes and food-related content. Feel free to share your own leftover ham creations with us, and let’s continue to explore the wonderful world of cooking together. Until next time, happy cooking!
FAQ
1. How long can I keep leftover ham in the fridge?
You can store leftover ham in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prolong its freshness.
2. Can I freeze leftover ham?
Yes, you can freeze leftover ham for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer bag before putting it in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge before using it.
3. What can I do with leftover ham bones?
You can use leftover ham bones to make a flavorful broth or stock. Simply simmer the bones in water with vegetables and seasonings for a few hours, then strain the liquid and use it as a base for soups, stews, and more.
4. Can I use leftover ham in salads?
Yes, leftover ham can be a great addition to salads. Try adding diced ham to green salads, potato salads, or pasta salads for a protein boost and extra flavor.
5. What can I make with leftover ham besides sandwiches?
You can use leftover ham in many dishes, such as soups, casseroles, quiches, omelets, and more. Check out our article for some easy and delicious leftover ham recipes.
6. Can I use leftover ham in Mexican dishes?
Yes, leftover ham can be a tasty addition to Mexican dishes like burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. Try using it in place of chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.
7. What can I make with leftover ham for breakfast?
Leftover ham can be a great addition to breakfast dishes like omelets, frittatas, breakfast burritos, and scrambled eggs. Check out our article for some easy breakfast recipes.
8. Can I use leftover ham in pizza?
Yes, leftover ham can be a delicious topping for homemade pizzas. Try pairing it with pineapple, peppers, or mushrooms for a classic Hawaiian-style pizza.
9. What can I make with leftover ham and potatoes?
Leftover ham and potatoes can be used to make a variety of dishes, such as hash, shepherd’s pie, baked potatoes, and potato soup. Check out our article for some tasty recipes.
10. Can I use leftover ham in Chinese dishes?
While leftover ham may not be a traditional ingredient in Chinese cuisine, it can still be used to add flavor to dishes like fried rice, stir-fries, and noodle dishes. Try using diced ham in place of other meats or tofu for a different twist.