Are you tired of throwing away leftover ham, only to watch it end up in the trash? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! But what if I told you that with a little creativity, those scraps of ham could become the star of your next meal? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and healthy recipes that feature leftover ham as the main ingredient. From hearty soups to light and refreshing salads, we’ve got something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a satisfying dinner solution, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your leftovers. So go ahead, dig into that fridge and see what treasures you can find. And remember, reducing food waste doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor – in fact, many of these recipes pack just as much punch as their ham-based counterparts.
Healthy Ham and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the ham and an assortment of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli and cooked ham; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leftover Ham and Lentil Soup
Use up leftover ham and create a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the lentils, ham, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Diced Ham and Avocado
A refreshing and nutritious salad that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up with savory diced ham. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced ham, and red bell pepper.
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Dice the flesh into small pieces and add to the bowl.
3. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and squeeze lime juice evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (cooking quinoa)
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a savory masterpiece by filling them with crispy ham, wilted spinach, and creamy cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook until crispy.
4. Wilt spinach leaves in the same pan with the ham. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cut sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and fluff flesh with a fork.
6. Divide ham and spinach mixture among the sweet potato halves, topping each with shredded cheese.
7. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Low-Carb Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that’s also low in carbs! These ham and egg muffins are perfect for a quick morning meal or an on-the-go snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt until well-beaten.
3. Add diced ham, shredded cheese, almond flour, and baking powder to the egg mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Dot each muffin top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ham and White Bean Stew with Kale
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of smoky ham, creamy cannellini beans, and nutritious kale, all simmered together in a rich broth. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hock
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine ham hock, beans, broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Simmer for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in kale leaves; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Whole Wheat Ham and Cheese Quesadillas
Whole Wheat Ham and Cheese Quesadillas Recipe Summary: Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese with the nutty goodness of whole wheat tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese and half with ham.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until tortilla is lightly browned and cheese is melted.
5. Repeat with remaining tortillas and serve hot.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Casserole with Cauliflower Rice
A classic comfort food recipe gets a low-carb twist with the addition of cauliflower rice, making it a perfect option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham steak, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cauliflower rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced ham and broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the cauliflower rice, shredded cheese, and milk. Mix well.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the ham and broccoli mixture followed by half of the cauliflower rice mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Ham and Pea Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish packed with protein-rich ham, nutritious peas, and whole-grain rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 ounces cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-22 minutes of cooking, stir in ham, peas, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Omelette with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with this flavorful omelette, packed with savory ham, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and delicious morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until lightly whisked.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Pour the eggs over the mushrooms and cook until the edges start to set (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Sprinkle the diced ham and chopped parsley over the eggs.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelette in half.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Leftover Ham and Chickpea Salad
Transform leftover ham into a tasty salad by combining it with nutritious chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and zesty flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the ham mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Ham and Asparagus Frittata
Start your day with a delicious and savory breakfast that combines the flavors of ham and asparagus in a crispy, golden-brown frittata.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the ham and asparagus mixture in the skillet. Cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lightened-Up Ham and Potato Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s lighter on calories without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham, reduced-sodium
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup milk (2% or skim)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and milk.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy ham, creamy black beans, and crunchy avocado for a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, ham, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
3. Divide the mixture among four bowls or containers.
4. Top each bowl with diced avocado.
5. Add desired toppings (optional).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Healthy Ham and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This simple and flavorful stir-fry combines lean ham with nutritious cabbage and a hint of Asian-inspired spices, making it a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound lean ham (such as prosciutto or cooked chicken breast), sliced into thin strips
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Add the cabbage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Zucchini Noodle Pasta
Quickly cook up a delicious and healthy pasta dish with the flavors of ham and zucchini. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. zucchini noodles
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the ham and garlic mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 15-20 minutes
– Total time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Ham and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform leftover ham and quinoa into a delicious and nutritious dish by stuffing it inside bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for using up holiday leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced leftover ham
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optional: sprinkle shredded cheese on top and return to oven for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Tomato Basil Soup
Savor the flavors of summer with this comforting soup, featuring sweet tomatoes, savory ham, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir in diced ham and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Sweet Corn Chowder with Coconut Milk
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the savory flavors of ham, sweet corn, and coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked ham)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, coconut milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ham and Egg Fried Rice
A delicious and nutritious twist on the classic Chinese dish, this recipe combines scrambled eggs, diced ham, and a medley of vegetables with cooked rice. Perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (look for nitrate-free options)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Push the onion mixture to one side of the pan.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through, breaking into small pieces as they set.
5. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice, diced ham, and frozen vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover ham! This article features 20 delicious and healthy recipes to transform yesterday’s dinner into a tasty treat. From hearty soups and casseroles to quick stir-fries and breakfast options, there’s something for everyone. Try using ham in a vegetable stir-fry, lentil soup, or quinoa salad. Or, get creative with sweet potatoes, eggs, or quesadillas. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to inspire you to reduce food waste and create something new and exciting.