5 Creative Dishes You Can Make With Leftover Ham From Thanksgiving

After the Thanksgiving feast, many of us are left with an abundance of delicious leftovers, especially ham.

The savory, smoky flavor of ham can be used in countless dishes, making it the perfect ingredient to stretch your holiday meal into a variety of exciting new recipes. Whether you’re craving a comforting casserole, a savory soup, or something a little different.

Get our free mobile app

Here are five tasty ways to use up your leftover ham and keep the holiday spirit alive in your kitchen.

1. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast casserole featuring leftover ham. This easy-to-make dish combines chunks of ham with eggs, cheese, and a few vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach. The best part? You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick, satisfying breakfast or brunch. Add in some hash browns or bread cubes to give it an extra layer of texture.

Tips:

• Use a mix of cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella cheese for a more complex flavor.
• For an extra savory touch, sprinkle a little garlic powder or dried herbs on top before baking.

2. Ham and Potato Soup

A comforting bowl of ham and potato soup is perfect for using up those Thanksgiving leftovers. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add diced potatoes, carrots, and chunks of ham. Let everything simmer in a savory broth until the potatoes are tender. Finish with a splash of cream for richness, and season with thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. This soup is the ultimate cozy meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

Tips:

• If you want to make it extra creamy, add some grated cheese or blend part of the soup for a smooth texture.
• For a smoky twist, toss in a bit of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.

3. Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice

Give your leftover ham a tropical twist by making ham and pineapple fried rice. The savory ham pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. Simply sauté diced ham with rice, onions, garlic, peas, and pineapple chunks. Add a little soy sauce and sesame oil for depth, and top with a fried egg for extra richness. This dish is a fun and quick way to turn your leftovers into something new and exciting.

Tips:

• Use day-old rice for the best texture, as it absorbs the flavors better.
• Add a sprinkle of green onions or cilantro for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

4. Ham Salad Sandwiches

Ham salad is a classic way to use up leftover ham, and it’s perfect for a light lunch or snack. Simply chop up the ham and mix it with mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and a little onion or celery for crunch. Spread the mixture on bread or a soft roll, and you’ve got yourself a quick and delicious sandwich. For added flair, you can toss in some hard-boiled eggs or a dash of pickle juice for extra tang.

Tips:

• Make it more flavorful by adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a pinch of curry powder.
• Try using croissants or whole-grain bread for an upscale twist.

5. Ham and Veggie Quesadillas

If you’re in the mood for something quick and easy, ham and veggie quesadillas are a great option. Shred or chop your leftover ham and pair it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Layer the mixture with cheese between two flour tortillas, and cook until golden and crispy on both sides. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Tips:

• Add a bit of jalapeño or hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or monterey jack, for a melted, gooey center.

To make sure your leftover ham stays fresh for future meals, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the ham for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to slice or cube the ham before freezing for easy use in future recipes.

From savory breakfasts to comforting soups, ham can be the star of so many delicious dishes. Don’t let those leftovers go to waste—transform them into something new and exciting that will keep you enjoying the flavors of Thanksgiving long after the big day. So, grab that leftover ham and get creative in the kitchen.

Happy cooking.