12 Easy Leftover Ham Recipes (Quick, Cozy & Kid-Approved)
Got leftover holiday ham sitting in your fridge? Don’t let it go to waste!
Ham is one of the easiest proteins to repurpose because it reheats beautifully and adds instant flavor to any quick weeknight meal.
12 Easy Leftover Ham Recipes
Whether you want something creamy, comforting, or super simple for picky eaters, these leftover ham recipes will help you stretch your holiday dinner into delicious meals all week long.
1. Cheesy Ham & Potato Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and so filling. Just toss diced ham, frozen hash browns, cheese, cream of chicken soup, and bake. This is always a hit with kids and perfect for busy nights.
2. Leftover Ham Fried Rice
Skip takeout and grab a skillet! Cook leftover rice with peas, carrots, scrambled egg, soy sauce, and diced ham for a quick 10-minute dinner.
3. Ham & Broccoli Mac and Cheese
Upgrade boxed or homemade mac and cheese with chopped ham and steamed broccoli. It turns into a full meal instantly.
4. Ham & Cheese Sliders (Hawaiian Rolls)
Layer leftover ham and Swiss cheese on Hawaiian rolls, brush with garlic butter, and bake. Great for lunches, after-school snacks, or an easy dinner.
5. Ham & Potato Soup
Creamy, cozy, and perfect for cold days. Simmer ham with potatoes, onions, celery, broth, and a splash of cream. Serve with biscuits or crusty bread.
6. Ham & Veggie Egg Muffins
Whisk eggs, cheese, ham, spinach, and peppers. Pour into a muffin tin and bake. Meal-prep friendly and low-carb.
7. Ham Alfredo Pasta
Creamy Alfredo sauce + leftover ham + frozen peas = dinner ready in under 20 minutes. Use fettuccine, penne, or whatever pasta you have on hand.
8. One-Pot Ham & Rice Skillet
A super budget-friendly dish. Sauté ham with onions, garlic, uncooked rice, broth, and peas. Simmer until the rice is fluffy.
9. Ham & Cheddar Biscuits
Add chopped ham and cheese into your biscuit dough or canned biscuit dough for an easy breakfast or snack.
10. Ham & Bean Soup
A classic! Combine ham, canned beans, carrots, celery, onions, and broth. Slow cook or simmer on the stove. Super filling and great for freezing.
11. Ham Quesadillas
Kids love this one — just add diced ham and cheese between tortillas and toast until crispy. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or ranch.
12. Ham & Corn Chowder
Sweet corn, tender potatoes, and salty ham create the perfect creamy soup. Add bacon on top if you want extra flavor.
Tips for Storing & Using Leftover Ham
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze ham in small portions for up to 3 months.
- Add ham to easy meals like omelets, salads, wraps, or pasta.
- Chop, slice, or shred it so it’s ready to use during the week.
Leftover ham doesn’t have to be boring!
With a few simple ingredients, you can turn it into cozy, budget-friendly meals your whole family will love.
Try one or two of these this week — especially the casseroles and soups — they stretch your ham and your grocery budget.
