Savory Solutions: 30 Recipes for Leftover Holiday Ham
Welcome to my ultimate guide to making the most of your holiday leftovers! If you're anything like me, you probably find yourself with an abundance of delicious leftovers after the festive feasts, especially that centerpiece ham. Instead of letting those scrumptious slices go to waste, why not transform them into a variety of mouthwatering dishes that will keep the holiday spirit alive in your kitchen?
In this blog post, I‘m excited to share 30 inventive and delicious recipes that take your leftover holiday ham to new culinary heights. Whether you're looking to whip up a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a comforting dinner, we've got you covered. And for those who also have leftover mashed potatoes, we've included recipes that ingeniously incorporate them into satisfying meals.
From savory bread puddings and flavorful casseroles to delightful sandwiches and creative twists on classic dishes, each recipe is designed to bring out the best in your holiday leftovers. These dishes are not only easy to make but also perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Join us as we explore a world of flavors and textures, turning your holiday ham into a series of unforgettable meals that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Let's dive in and make the most of those festive leftovers with these 30 incredible recipes that celebrate the joy of holiday cooking all over again!
Pineapple and Ham Fried Rice (Thai)
Pineapple and Ham Fried Rice is a delightful fusion dish that breathes new life into your holiday leftovers. Combining the sweetness of pineapple, the savory taste of ham, and the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, this recipe offers a unique twist on traditional fried rice. With its colorful array of ingredients and bold seasoning, it's sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
This Pineapple and Ham Fried Rice recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and cultures, making it a standout dish that's both delicious and satisfying.
2. Loaded Omelet
The beauty of this Loaded Omelet lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients—eggs, ham, cheese, and some veggies—you can whip up a meal that feels special and indulgent, yet is incredibly straightforward to prepare.
Perfect for using up leftover ham and bits of vegetables you have in the fridge, this omelet is a great way to reduce waste while treating yourself to a flavorful breakfast. Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself, this Loaded Omelet delivers a balanced mix of protein, and essential nutrients to keep you energized throughout the morning.
3. Cheesy Ham Hash
After the holiday feast, there’s always the delightful challenge of figuring out what to do with the leftovers. One of my favorite solutions is to turn those bits and pieces into a satisfying dish that brings everyone back to the table. This Cheesy Ham Hash is a perfect example, blending the savory flavors of leftover ham with creamy soups, tangy sour cream, and lots of gooey cheese.
The beauty of this Cheesy Ham Hash is not just in its deliciousness, but in its practicality. It makes great use of ingredients you likely already have on hand, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare—just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and in an hour, you’ll have a bubbly, golden-brown hash that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
4. Leftover Ham and Mashed Potato Casserole
This Leftover Ham and Mashed Potato Casserole is the perfect solution! Combining tender egg noodles with creamy mashed potatoes, savory ham, and a medley of peas and carrots, this casserole is a fantastic way to repurpose your holiday dinner ingredients. With the addition of flavorful cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, this dish ensures that no leftovers goes to waste while providing a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy the familiar tastes of your holiday feast in a new and exciting way with this easy-to-make casserole!
5. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Have leftover ham from your holiday feast and need a delicious way to use it up? These Ham and Cheese Sliders are the perfect solution! Ideal as an evening snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these sliders combine savory ham, melted Swiss and Cheddar cheese, and soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls. Topped with a flavorful butter mixture, they bake to golden perfection in just few minutes. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious, these sliders turn holiday leftovers into a delightful treat everyone will love.
6. Ham And Cheese Quiche
The holiday season often leaves us with an abundance of leftovers, and one ingredient that frequently lingers in our refrigerators is ham. While it's always tempting to simply reheat those leftovers, why not repurpose them into something new and delicious? Enter: Ham and Cheese Quiche, a delightful way to breathe new life into your holiday ham remnants while creating a healthy and satisfying meal.
This recipe takes leftover ham and transforms it into a savory quiche, packed with protein-rich eggs, nutrient-dense spinach, and flavorful cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a wholesome dish that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
7. Leftover Mashed Potato and Ham Shepherd’s Pie
This Shepherd’s Pie starts with a flavorful mixture of diced ham, onions, garlic, and thyme, cooked until golden and fragrant. A simple chicken stock and flour roux thickens the filling, while frozen peas and carrots add a pop of color and sweetness. Topped with creamy leftover mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is comfort food at its finest.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, this Leftover Mashed Potato and Ham Shepherd’s Pie is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
8. Ham and Cheese Puffs
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can turn simple puff pastry sheets into savory puffs filled with a delightful mixture of ham and Swiss cheese, all enhanced by a touch of Dijon mustard and honey. Bake them until golden brown, and you'll have a warm, crispy, and cheesy treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
These Ham and Cheese Puffs are the perfect solution for craving for snacks! Ideal as an appetizer or an evening snack, they’re easy to make and incredibly tasty.
9. Christmas Ham Banh mi
Transform your holiday leftovers into a culinary delight with this unique twist on the classic Vietnamese Banh Mi. This Christmas Ham Banh Mi is a delightful way to repurpose your leftover Christmas ham, turning it into a flavorful and satisfying sandwich.
With a perfect balance of savory ham, tangy pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs, all tucked into a crisp baguette, this sandwich offers a refreshing contrast of textures and flavors.
10. Mac and cheese with ham
This dish transforms your holiday remnants into a creamy, cheesy delight that's perfect for any meal. With a luscious cheese sauce, tender chunks of ham, and a hint of cayenne for a subtle kick, this mac and cheese is comfort food at its finest.
Perfect for a family dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses creates a rich, flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic favorite and savor the flavors of the holidays all over again!
11. Christmas Ham Sandwich (Cuban)
Perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty snack, this Cuban Sandwich is easy to make and packed with flavor. The crisp, buttery Cuban bread, paired with the sharpness of Swiss cheese and the crunch of dill pickles, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
Enjoy a taste of Cuba with this delectable sandwich, and make the most out of your holiday ham leftovers in a fun and tasty way. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal or a unique snack, this Cuban Sandwich is sure to impress!
12. Ham salad
Looking for a fresh and flavorful way to repurpose your holiday ham? This Holiday Ham Salad is the perfect solution. Combining hearty diced ham with vibrant mixed baby greens, creamy avocado, and savory blue cheese, this salad is a delightful twist on a classic dish.
Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is a delicious way to make the most of your holiday leftovers. Enjoy the balance of flavors and textures in this easy-to-make, yet impressive dish!
13. Creamy Ham Pasta
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta dish is a delightful way to repurpose your holiday leftovers into something entirely new and satisfying. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty richness, while a splash of pasta water ensures the sauce is silky and smooth.
Enjoy a taste of indulgence with this hearty and flavorful pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite!
14. Monte cristo sandwich
Upgrade your holiday leftovers with this delicious Monte Cristo Sandwich, featuring cooked holiday ham and turkey. This classic sandwich gets a festive twist with the addition of raspberry jam, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, this Monte Cristo is sure to become a favorite way to enjoy your holiday ham.
15. Ham and potato soup
Turn your holiday ham into a comforting bowl of Ham and Potato Soup. This hearty soup is a delightful way to repurpose leftovers, transforming them into a creamy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for chilly days. With tender chunks of ham, savory cream of potato soup, and the subtle crunch of celery and onion, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this Ham and Potato Soup is an ideal choice for a quick, yet indulgent, lunch or dinner.
16. Italian pasta salad with ham
Give your holiday leftovers a fresh and vibrant makeover with this Italian Pasta Salad with Ham. Perfect for a light lunch or a hearty side dish, this salad combines the savory flavors of diced holiday ham with fresh vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing.
This dish is not only a great way to repurpose holiday ham, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Enjoy the taste of the holidays in a whole new way with this delicious and easy pasta salad!
17. Easy Jambalaya with leftover ham and shrimp
Jambalaya is a classic Creole dish that brings together a medley of flavors in one pot. This easy version is perfect for using up leftover ham and adding succulent shrimp for a hearty, satisfying meal. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this easy jambalaya recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Serve it up for a comforting dinner that's perfect for any occasion, and enjoy the delightful blend of tastes that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
18. Leftover ham and mashed potato croquettes
Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these croquettes are an inventive way to breathe new life into your holiday leftovers. The combination of savory ham, creamy mashed potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful bite that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Using leftover mashed potatoes and ham not only reduces food waste but also creates a new dish with familiar ingredients. The mashed potatoes provide a creamy base that binds the croquettes, while the ham adds a savory depth of flavor.
19. Ham red bean curry with rice
Reinvent your leftovers with this delicious ham and red bean curry. Combining the savory flavor of leftover ham with hearty kidney beans and aromatic spices, this curry is a unique and satisfying meal. The creamy texture of the curry adds a rich consistency that pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice. This recipe not only makes the most of your leftovers but also transforms them into an exciting new dish.
20. Lentil soup with ham
This hearty lentil soup makes excellent use of leftover ham, transforming it into a comforting and nutritious meal. Packed with vegetables, lentils, and aromatic spices, this soup is not only flavorful but also a great way to minimize food waste by reusing leftover ham in a unique and delicious way.
This recipe creatively repurposes leftover ham, incorporating it into a lentil soup that is both hearty and flavorful. The ham adds a rich, savory depth to the soup, while the lentils provide a nutritious and satisfying base.
21. Loaded baked potato with ham
Turn your leftover ham into a delicious and comforting meal with these loaded baked potatoes. Packed with creamy cheese, tangy sour cream, and savory ham, these baked potatoes are a delightful way to reinvent leftovers.
This recipe is a fantastic way to reuse leftover ham by incorporating it into a classic comfort food. The ham adds a savory depth to the creamy, cheesy filling, making the loaded baked potatoes a satisfying and flavorful meal.
22. Ham and cheese scrambled egg
Elevate your breakfast with these delicious ham and cheese scrambled eggs, a perfect way to use up leftover ham. This quick and easy recipe combines fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese for a satisfying morning meal. Not only does it give new life to your leftovers, but it also creates a nutritious and tasty start to your day.
This recipe creatively repurposes leftover ham, making it a star ingredient in a classic breakfast dish.
23. Hawaiian pizza
Not only is this pizza incredibly tasty, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. The convenience of store-bought pizza dough and sauce cuts down on prep time, allowing you to create a mouthwatering meal in no time. Plus, it’s a fun way to get creative with your leftovers and impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both familiar and fresh.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic Hawaiian pizza or looking for a new way to enjoy your leftover ham, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
24. Ham Pineapple Curry
After a festive holiday dinner, finding creative ways to use leftover ham can be a delightful culinary challenge. This Ham and Pineapple Curry offers a unique and flavorful solution. Blending the savory taste of ham with the sweet and tangy notes of pineapple, this dish is elevated by the warmth of curry spices.
This Ham and Pineapple Curry transforms your holiday leftovers into an exotic and comforting dish, adding a new twist to traditional flavors.
25. Ham cheese breakfast muffin
After a festive holiday dinner, you're often left with a bounty of delicious ham. Instead of letting those leftovers go to waste, why not repurpose them into a delightful breakfast treat? These Ham and Cheese Breakfast Muffins are the perfect solution. Packed with protein and flavor, they offer a savory start to your day and are incredibly easy to make. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have a quick breakfast option ready to go.
26. Ham cheese bread pudding
Transform your holiday leftovers into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this Ham Cheese Bread Pudding! Perfect for making the most of your leftover Christmas ham, this recipe combines layers of crusty bread, savory ham, and melty cheese, all enveloped in a rich, creamy custard. It’s a dish that brings together the best of comfort food and holiday nostalgia in every bite.
27. Ham tortilla wrap
Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. This Ham Tortilla Wrap combines the creamy tang of a cheese spread with the savory taste of ham and the crisp freshness of lettuce or spinach. It's perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, requiring no cooking and minimal preparation. Whether you're in a hurry or just craving something deliciously easy, this wrap delivers flavor and convenience in every bite.
28. Ham and peas risotto
Ham Risotto is a rich and satisfying dish that combines the creamy texture of arborio rice with the savory taste of ham, the sweetness of peas, and the bright freshness of lemon zest. This classic Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a balance of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this risotto is sure to impress with its gourmet appeal and comforting essence.
29. Ham gnocchi
Ham Gnocchi is a quick and delicious recipe that brings a new life to your leftover holiday ham. Combining the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the savory flavor of ham and the freshness of peas, this dish is elevated with a creamy, cheesy sauce that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
30. Ham pot pie
Elevate your leftover holiday ham with this delicious Ham Pot Pie recipe. Combining tender chunks of ham with savory vegetables and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky puff pastry crust, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this unique twist on pot pie is sure to become a favorite in your household.
