Are you looking for a protein-packed ingredient that can elevate any dish? Look no further than savory ham! With its rich, meaty flavor and versatility, ham is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply need some inspiration for a weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered with these 20 delicious savory ham recipes.
From classic comfort foods like casserole and soup to innovative twists on old favorites, our collection has something for every palate and occasion. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover the many wonders of savory ham!
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
This classic ham recipe gets a tropical twist with the addition of sweet pineapple rings, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into rings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan, scored in a diamond pattern if desired.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores (if using).
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the ham.
6. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ham, potatoes, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add ham and cook until heated through.
4. Arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the ham mixture over the potatoes, then top with remaining potatoes.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the potatoes.
7. Dot the top with butter.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory Ham and Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender ham, creamy beans, and aromatic vegetables. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, this recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hock
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine ham hock, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add navy beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Remove ham hock from pot and chop into bite-sized pieces. Return ham to the soup and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Ham and Swiss Quiche
A classic brunch option, this quiche combines the savory flavors of ham and Swiss cheese with a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the diced ham and grated cheese evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure to cover everything.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Baked Ham recipe. A classic combination of savory garlic and rich butter infuses every bite with unparalleled flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, brown sugar, and mustard.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 4-6 pound ham.
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this savory and satisfying recipe! Tender chicken breasts filled with a delicious ham and cheese mixture make for a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ham, cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the ham and cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Ham and Mushroom Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of ham with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add ham and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined. Bring mixture to a simmer and let reduce slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-ham mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until creamy sauce coats the pasta.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory take on stuffed shells. Rich ham and spinach add depth to the classic ricotta filling.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ham, spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ham-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Ham and Lentil Stew
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the richness of ham with the wholesome goodness of lentils. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham steak
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the ham steak, lentils, carrots, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Ham and Cheddar Biscuits
These buttery biscuits are packed with the savory flavors of ham and cheddar, perfect for a comforting breakfast or snack. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Pour in heavy cream and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each biscuit.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day off right with these savory ham and egg breakfast muffins. Perfect for a quick morning meal or as a snack on-the-go, these muffins are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced ham and chopped parsley.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Alfredo
This creamy pasta dish combines the savory flavors of ham and broccoli with a rich Alfredo sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli-ham mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Mustard Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday meal with this sweet and savory glaze, combining the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) ham, bone-in or boneless
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, whole-grain mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Ham and Cheese Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized, cheesy, and savory ham and cheese sliders on sweet Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Hawaiian dinner rolls (8-10 rolls)
– 4 oz ham slices
– 4 slices of cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Split the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise.
3. Place a slice of ham on each roll half, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese.
4. Dot the top of each sandwich with softened butter.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and rolls are toasted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ham and Pea Risotto
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of ham with the sweetness of peas, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 oz cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add Arborio rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring constantly, until rice is cooked (about 20 minutes).
5. Stir in ham, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting side dish perfect for brunch or a casual dinner, this Ham and Potato Hash is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together potatoes, onion, and ham.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Green Bean Casserole
This classic casserole combines the savory flavors of ham and green beans with a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a buttery crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine green beans, ham, cream of mushroom soup, milk, melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the crackers in an even layer.
4. Add the ham and green bean mixture on top of the crackers.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using) over the casserole.
6. Top with remaining crackers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Cheese Cornbread
A classic Southern favorite gets a savory twist with this ham and cheese cornbread recipe. Perfect for a comforting brunch or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
4. Fold in diced ham and shredded cheese.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Tart
Savor the sweet and savory combination of ham and asparagus in a flaky pastry crust, perfect for a weekend brunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 6 oz. thinly sliced prosciutto or ham
– 12-15 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange asparagus spears in a single layer, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Place prosciutto or ham slices on top of the asparagus, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Fold the puff pastry edges over the filling to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the crust with a little water and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Pizza
This classic combination of savory ham and earthy mushrooms on a crispy crust is a match made in heaven. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 6 slices of ham, diced
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Brush olive oil over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange mushrooms in a single layer on one half of the crust.
5. Top with diced ham and mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold the other half of the crust over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the savory delight of ham with this collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes. From classic comfort foods like Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole and Ham and Swiss Quiche, to international twists like Creamy Ham and Mushroom Pasta and Ham and Pea Risotto, there’s something for every occasion. Sweet and savory glazes, cheesy fillings, and hearty casseroles await in this compilation of ham-based dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, these recipes have got you covered.
