Ham It Up! Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meals Using Leftover Holiday Ham
Ah, the holidays. A time for family, friends, festive cheer…and an abundance of delicious ham! But what happens after the holiday feast is over? Don’t let that precious leftover ham go to waste! Instead, transform it into a variety of quick, easy, and satisfying weeknight meals that will have your family cheering. This article is packed with delectable recipes designed to make the most of your holiday ham, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor. So, ditch the dinner-time dread and prepare to unleash your inner culinary genius with these ham-tastic ideas!
## The Magic of Leftover Ham: A Versatile Ingredient
Ham is an incredibly versatile ingredient, adding a savory, smoky depth to countless dishes. Its natural saltiness pairs well with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it a welcome addition to everything from soups and salads to pasta and sandwiches. Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about proper storage to ensure your ham stays fresh and delicious.
**Storage Tips for Leftover Ham:**
* **Cool Down Quickly:** Don’t leave ham sitting at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can multiply rapidly in that time.
* **Wrap it Right:** Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a resealable bag or airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out.
* **Refrigerate Promptly:** Store the ham in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
* **Freezing for Later:** If you have a large amount of leftover ham, consider freezing it. Cut it into smaller portions or dice it before freezing for easier use later. Properly frozen ham can last for 1-2 months.
Now that you know how to store your leftover ham, let’s get cooking!
## Recipe 1: Speedy Ham and Cheese Scalloped Potatoes
This comforting classic gets a flavor boost from leftover ham. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and comes together quickly on a busy weeknight.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
* 2 cups cooked ham, diced
* 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 3 tablespoons butter
* 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 2 ½ cups milk
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Make the Sauce:** Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. **Season and Layer:** Remove from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese.
5. **Assemble the Dish:** In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potato slices, followed by half of the ham and half of the onion mixture. Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onion mixture. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
6. **Bake to Golden Perfection:** Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Rest and Serve:** Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Speed it Up:** Use pre-sliced potatoes to save time.
* **Add Veggies:** Incorporate other vegetables like peas, corn, or broccoli for added nutrition.
* **Spice it Up:** A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a little kick.
* **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a smoked cheddar.
## Recipe 2: Ham and Bean Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Classic
This hearty and comforting soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. It’s packed with flavor and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 1 pound dried great northern beans, rinsed and sorted
* 2 cups cooked ham, diced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Bay leaf, chopped carrots, celery, fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** Add the chicken broth, beans, ham, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Add a bay leaf if using.
3. **Simmer to Perfection:** Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. **Adjust and Serve:** Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Soak the Beans:** Soaking the beans overnight will reduce cooking time. Alternatively, use the quick-soak method (boil for 2 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour).
* **Add Veggies:** Carrots and celery add extra flavor and nutrients. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Thicken the Soup:** For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the beans.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Smoked Ham Hock:** If you have one, adding a smoked ham hock while simmering adds incredible depth of flavor. Remove it before serving.
## Recipe 3: Ham and Cheese Frittata: A Quick and Easy Brunch or Dinner
This frittata is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s a great way to use up leftover ham and any other vegetables you have on hand.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 large eggs
* ¼ cup milk or cream
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* ½ cup cooked ham, diced
* ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, or your favorite)
* Optional: Chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Whisk:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
2. **Sauté Veggies (Optional):** If using vegetables, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium heat. Sauté the vegetables until softened.
3. **Add Ham:** Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for a minute or two until slightly browned.
4. **Pour in Egg Mixture:** Pour the egg mixture over the ham and vegetables in the skillet. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. **Top with Cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
6. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and the top is golden brown.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the frittata cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Customize with Veggies:** Use any vegetables you like! Asparagus, zucchini, and tomatoes are also great choices.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
* **Herbs:** Add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for extra flavor.
* **Crustless Quiche:** This recipe is essentially a crustless quiche, making it a lighter and healthier option.
## Recipe 4: Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This quick and easy fried rice is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of ham, pineapple, and soy sauce creates a delicious sweet and savory flavor profile.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups cooked ham, diced
* 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
* ½ cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
* Optional: Green onions, chopped, for garnish; peas, carrots
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat the Oil:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add Ham and Pineapple:** Add the diced ham and pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly browned.
4. **Add Rice and Soy Sauce:** Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice and ensuring everything is well combined.
5. **Add Egg (Optional):** If using egg, push the rice to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten egg into the empty space and scramble until cooked. Then, mix the scrambled egg into the rice.
6. **Finish and Serve:** Stir in the sesame oil. Garnish with green onions, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Day-Old Rice:** Using day-old rice will prevent it from becoming mushy.
* **Frozen Vegetables:** Add frozen peas and carrots for extra nutrients and color.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
* **Protein Variations:** Add shrimp, chicken, or tofu for additional protein.
* **Sweet and Sour Sauce:** A drizzle of sweet and sour sauce at the end can enhance the sweet and savory flavors.
## Recipe 5: Ham and Gruyere Grilled Cheese: An Elevated Comfort Food Classic
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sophisticated combination of ham and Gruyere cheese. It’s a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s sure to satisfy.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, brioche, or rye work well)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* 2 slices Gruyere cheese
* 2 slices cooked ham
* Optional: Dijon mustard, fig jam, caramelized onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Butter the Bread:** Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a cold skillet. Top with one slice of Gruyere cheese, followed by the ham, and then the remaining slice of Gruyere cheese. Spread Dijon mustard, fig jam or carmelized onions, if desired.
3. **Top with the Other Slice:** Top with the other slice of bread, butter-side up.
4. **Grill to Golden Perfection:** Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even browning.
5. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the grilled cheese in half and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or cheddar.
* **Add a Spread:** Dijon mustard, fig jam, or pesto add a burst of flavor.
* **Upgrade Your Bread:** Use high-quality bread for the best results.
* **Panini Press:** Use a panini press for a perfectly pressed and grilled sandwich.
* **Add a Tomato Slice:** A slice of fresh tomato adds acidity and freshness.
## Recipe 6: Creamy Ham and Pea Pasta: A Simple and Flavorful Weeknight Meal
This creamy pasta dish is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in just minutes.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup cooked ham, diced
* 1 cup frozen peas
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. **Add Ham and Peas:** Add the diced ham and frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through.
4. **Add Cream and Cheese:** Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. **Combine with Pasta:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Add a little pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
6. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Different Pasta Shapes:** Use any pasta shape you like.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach.
* **Lighter Version:** Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
* **Lemon Zest:** A little lemon zest adds brightness to the dish.
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
## Recipe 7: Ham and Cheese Quesadillas: A Kid-Friendly Favorite
These ham and cheese quesadillas are a quick, easy, and kid-friendly meal that can be customized with your favorite fillings. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 flour tortillas
* 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
* ½ cup cooked ham, diced
* Optional: Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, chopped green onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble the Quesadillas:** Lay two tortillas flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle half of the cheese over each tortilla, followed by the diced ham, and then the remaining cheese. Top with the other two tortillas.
2. **Cook in a Skillet:** Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place one quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Repeat with the remaining quesadilla.
3. **Cut and Serve:** Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped green onions.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
* **Black Beans or Corn:** Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture.
* **Chicken or Turkey:** Substitute chicken or turkey for the ham.
## Recipe 8: Ham Salad Sandwiches: A Classic Comfort Food Lunch
Ham salad is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch. This recipe is simple to make and can be customized to your liking.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked ham, diced
* ½ cup mayonnaise
* ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
* ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
* 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
* 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Bread or crackers for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the diced ham, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and yellow mustard.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve on bread or crackers.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Food Processor:** Use a food processor to pulse the ham until it’s finely chopped.
* **Different Pickles:** Use dill pickle relish instead of sweet pickle relish for a tangier flavor.
* **Hard-Boiled Egg:** Add a chopped hard-boiled egg for extra protein and flavor.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little kick.
* **Bread Choices:** Croissants, bagels, or even lettuce wraps are great alternatives to sliced bread.
## Don’t Forget the Sides!
To complete your ham-tastic weeknight meals, consider adding these simple and delicious side dishes:
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with ham.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing and tangy coleslaw complements the savory ham.
* **Fruit Salad:** A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet counterpoint.
## Conclusion: Embrace the Ham!
Leftover holiday ham doesn’t have to be a culinary burden. With a little creativity and these easy recipes, you can transform it into a variety of delicious and satisfying weeknight meals. So, embrace the ham and enjoy the flavor and convenience it brings to your table! Happy cooking!