17 tasty ways to use up leftover ham

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Some days, figuring out what to do with leftover ham feels harder than making the original meal. With 17 different options here, you get a range of ideas that help stretch what you already have on hand. If your schedule is packed, it keeps decisions straightforward without adding extra steps. From quick meals to low-effort options, this list fits into real routines without overthinking.

A black bowl of Easy Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas garnished with grated cheese and herbs.
Easy Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice on a white plate.
Ham Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Leftover ham gets a fresh new use in this Ham Fried Rice that’s quick and easy to prepare. It’s packed with bold flavor and comes together in no time. Perfect for dinner or even a hearty lunch, it’s a go-to for turning simple ingredients into a reliable meal. You’ll like how effortless it is to pull together, making it one you can come back to anytime.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche

Slices of Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche next to a whole pie.
Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Breakfast can feel effortless when you throw together this Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche. Its fluffy texture and savory layers of ham and cheese are a crowd-pleaser every time. Ideal for brunch, meal prep, or an easy weeknight dinner, it’s incredibly versatile. You get all the satisfaction of a well-made quiche without the fuss of a crust.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Impossible Quiche

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turning leftovers into something exciting is easy with this Ham & Asparagus Pizza. The balance of tender asparagus and salty ham keeps it well-rounded for a quick meal. Whether it’s for family dinner or a simple solo night, this pizza comes together with minimal effort. It’s proof that leftovers can feel fresh and fun with just a few tweaks.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Two bowls of soup with ham, sausage, split peas and vegetables in them.
Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm and hearty meals like this Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup turn leftovers into something worth looking forward to. Rich flavors come together in a way that feels especially fitting on cooler days. It’s filling enough for lunch or dinner and lets simple ingredients stand out. With minimal effort, you’ll have something rich, cozy, and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea, Ham & Sausage Soup

Ham & Cheese Turnovers

Two ham and cheese turnovers in a pan on a table.
Ham & Cheese Turnovers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turning pantry staples into handheld bites is a breeze with this Ham & Cheese Turnovers recipe. Flaky pastry filled with savory ham and cheese makes them hard to resist. They’re great for grab-and-go lunches or laid-back snacks at home. Plus, these turnovers show how simple flavors can still feel a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Cheese Turnovers

Croissant Breakfast Casserole

A white plate with a slice of Croissant breakfast casserole and orange next to it.
Croissant Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some mornings call for something easy yet filling, like this Croissant Breakfast Casserole. It brings together soft layers and a rich, savory profile in a way that works for busy starts or relaxed brunch plans. It’s a great option if you’re hosting or need a make-ahead breakfast that keeps things simple. With a dish like this, mornings feel a bit more put together without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Croissant Breakfast Casserole

California Eggs Benedict

Eggs benedict with ham and avocado on an English muffin served on a black plate.
California Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Starting the day feels brighter with this California Eggs Benedict on your breakfast or brunch table. It’s a creative way to use up leftover ham while keeping things fresh and balanced. This recipe keeps things simple without feeling complicated, making it easy to include for different occasions. Whether you’re planning a relaxed breakfast or a special brunch, it brings a polished touch without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: California Eggs Benedict

Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

Overhead close-up of a white plate filled with small, golden-brown Ham & Cheese Puffs.
Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Anytime you need a quick appetizer or easy snack, these Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs deliver. Light, flaky, and loaded with savory flavors, they’re ideal for entertaining or simple meals. They’re quick to put together, giving you impressive results without much prep. Whether for parties or weekday bites, their versatility makes them a winner every time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Two black cast iron pans filled with mac and cheese sit on cork trivets on a white wooden surface.
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Comfort foods are even better with the addition of ham, just like in this Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese. Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, this dish is easy to love. It’s perfect for feeding a larger group or simply indulging in a cozy family dinner. You can count on this classic recipe to become a favorite in your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Easy Baked Western Omelet

A slice of baked Western omelet with ham, red peppers, and herbs is served on a white plate with a fork holding a bite-sized piece.
Easy Baked Western Omelet. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Getting a hearty breakfast on the table is simple with this Easy Baked Western Omelet. The combination of ham, eggs, and veggies makes it filling yet light. It’s a great choice for a meal prep option or a relaxed weekend brunch. No matter the occasion, this recipe is a reliable way to start the day on a delicious note.
Get the Recipe: Easy Baked Western Omelet

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and a plate of croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Leftover ham transforms into something truly versatile in this Southern Ham Salad. Whether you spread it on a sandwich or enjoy it with crackers, it’s a flavorful way to make something simple. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it perfect for everything from lunches to picnics. Keep it handy for easy meals or share it at your next get-together.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

An easy meal can still feel a bit special without adding extra work. This Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu pairs ham and melted cheese in a lighter take on the classic version. It’s a solid option when you want something quick that still feels put together. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, it fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

No-frills recipes often turn out to be the ones you keep coming back to, and this Old Fashioned Ham Salad is no exception. It offers a balanced mix of creamy and savory elements without feeling complicated. Use it as a sandwich filling or a dip for crackers; it’s a simple nod to tradition that fits easily into your everyday routine. Sometimes, simple is just better.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A casserole dish filled with warm, cheesy layers always feels like a reliable option. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings together the classic mix of chicken, ham, and cheese in a way that works well for both weeknights and sharing. It’s a solid choice for family dinners or even meal prep for the week. You’ll like how easy it is to put together while still feeling hearty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham & Cheese

Four slices of Scalloped Potatoes with Ham and Cheese on a black slate board, placed on a light wooden surface.
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham & Cheese. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Few dishes hit the spot like something warm, creamy, and hearty all at once. These Scalloped Potatoes with Ham & Cheese bring together tender layers, melted cheese, and bits of ham for a meal that feels homemade without the extra effort. It works well for everyday dinners or when you have people over. Serve it as a side or let it take center stage; it holds up either way.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes with Ham & Cheese

Classic Eggs Benedict with Homemade Hollandaise Sauce

Eggs Benedict with poached eggs, ham, and hollandaise sauce on a plate, garnished with chives.
Classic Eggs Benedict with Homemade Hollandaise Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Some dishes just feel like a treat, and this Classic Eggs Benedict with Homemade Hollandaise Sauce is one of them. With its perfectly balanced layers of ham, poached eggs, and rich sauce, it’s all about starting your day with something special. While it might seem intimidating at first, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. This one’s a keeper for brunch-worthy mornings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Eggs Benedict with Homemade Hollandaise Sauce

Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas

A black bowl filled with Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas, topped with grated cheese and red pepper flakes, with a fork resting on the side.
Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Quick, one-pan meals are always a lifesaver on busy days. This Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas delivers familiar flavors in a way that’s both simple and easy to pull together. The ham adds a savory touch, while cheese and peas round out the dish with creamy and fresh notes. It’s a fuss-free option that comes together quickly, and even cleanup is a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Cheese Tortellini with Ham & Peas

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