5 Delicious Dishes to Make with Leftover Christmas Ham
The Christmas feast has come and gone, and now you’re left with a treasure trove of leftover ham.
Don’t let it go to waste! Here are five tasty and creative recipes to give your holiday ham a second life.
5 Delicious Dishes to Make with Leftover Christmas Ham
1. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with a hearty breakfast that combines savory ham with gooey cheese and fluffy eggs. This dish is easy to assemble the night before and pop in the oven for a stress-free morning meal. Simply layer cubes of ham, shredded cheese, and bread in a baking dish. Pour a mixture of eggs, milk, and seasoning over the top, then bake until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients:
- Cubed ham (2 cups)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
- Cubed bread (4 slices)
- Eggs (6)
- Milk (2 cups)
- Salt and pepper to taste
2. Ham and Potato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of ham and potato soup. This creamy soup is packed with diced potatoes, tender chunks of ham, and a hint of garlic. It’s the perfect way to use up your leftovers while fending off the winter chill.
Ingredients:
- Diced ham (1 cup)
- Potatoes, peeled and cubed (4)
- Onion, finely chopped (1)
- Chicken broth (4 cups)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Instructions: Sauté the onion and garlic, add the potatoes and broth, then simmer until tender. Stir in the ham and cream, season to taste, and serve hot.
3. Ham and Pineapple Pizza
Transform your leftover ham into a crowd-pleasing pizza. The classic combination of salty ham and sweet pineapple is a favorite for a reason. Use store-bought pizza dough for convenience, and top it with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, ham, pineapple chunks, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough (1)
- Marinara sauce (1/2 cup)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
- Diced ham (1 cup)
- Pineapple chunks (1/2 cup)
Instructions: Assemble your toppings on the dough, bake at 450°F (230°C) for 12-15 minutes, and enjoy!
4. Ham Fried Rice
Give your leftover ham an Asian-inspired twist with ham fried rice. This quick and easy dish is packed with flavor and can be made in under 20 minutes. Sauté ham with vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, then toss with cooked rice, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (2 cups)
- Diced ham (1 cup)
- Mixed vegetables (1 cup)
- Soy sauce (2 tbsp)
- Eggs (2, scrambled)
- Sesame oil (1 tbsp)
Instructions: Heat the oil in a wok or large pan, cook the ham and vegetables, add the rice and soy sauce, then mix in the scrambled eggs.
5. Ham and Swiss Sliders
Turn your leftover ham into a party-ready appetizer or quick lunch with these cheesy sliders. Layer ham and Swiss cheese on small rolls, then brush with a buttery mustard glaze before baking until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden.
Ingredients:
- Small rolls (12)
- Sliced ham (12 pieces)
- Swiss cheese (12 slices)
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted)
- Dijon mustard (2 tbsp)
- Poppy seeds (1 tbsp, optional)
Instructions: Assemble the sliders, brush with the glaze, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
These recipes ensure that your leftover ham won’t go to waste and will bring joy to your table long after Christmas Day. Happy cooking.
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Gallery Credit: Annalise Mantz & Madison Troyer