Are you tired of throwing away leftover ham only to end up ordering takeout or eating out? Well, we’ve got good news for you! With a little creativity and these 20 delicious healthy leftover ham recipes, you can turn last night’s dinner into tomorrow’s lunch and even next week’s breakfast. From hearty stews and casseroles to quick stir-fries and omelets, we’ve got a recipe that will satisfy your cravings while also keeping things healthy.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal solution or a flavorful way to use up those pesky leftovers, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. And the best part? They’re all packed with nutritious ingredients like whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of veggies. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make the most of that leftover ham!
Healthy Ham and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables while still satisfying your craving for protein. With the addition of lean ham, this dish makes for a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 oz lean ham, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Add the sliced ham and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leftover Ham and Lentil Soup
Transform leftover ham into a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a great way to use up holiday leftovers and enjoy a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover ham, diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the ham, lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Diced Ham and Avocado
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with the creaminess of avocado, the saltiness of diced ham, and a burst of citrus from lemon juice. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is also great as a side dish for your favorite entrees.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked ham)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced ham, avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes meet savory ham and spinach in this deliciously comforting recipe. Perfect as a main dish or side, these stuffed sweet potatoes are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add diced ham and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and let cool slightly. Slice in half lengthwise and fluff flesh with a fork.
5. Divide cooked ham and spinach among the sweet potato halves, spooning it into the crevices.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each sweet potato.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Low-Carb Ham and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that’s also low in carbs! These muffins are a delicious and convenient way to fuel up for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced ham (look for sugar-free options)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (reduced-fat or full-fat, your choice!)
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sweetener (such as Swerve or Erythritol)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing the muffin tin
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 6-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sweetener until smooth.
3. Add diced ham, shredded cheese, almond flour, and baking powder. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ham and White Bean Stew with Kale
This comforting stew combines the richness of ham with the creamy texture of white beans and the earthy flavor of kale, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked navy beans, ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in chopped kale and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until wilted. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Healthy Ham and Broccoli Casserole
A delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With lean ham, plenty of vitamins-rich broccoli, and whole grain goodness, you can feel good about what you’re serving your family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta, cooked
– 1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked ham, broccoli, pasta, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Leftover Ham and Cauliflower Fried Rice
Transform last night’s leftover ham into a tasty and innovative dish with this easy recipe. This cauliflower-fried rice creation is perfect for using up remaining ham, reducing food waste, and serving a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked cauliflower “rice” (see note)
– 1 cup diced leftover ham
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked cauliflower “rice” and stir-fry until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the diced ham, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Quiche with Whole Wheat Crust
Elevate your brunch game with this savory quiche, packed with caramelized mushrooms and crispy ham, all wrapped up in a nutritious whole wheat crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch whole wheat pie crust
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the whole wheat crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and ham until caramelized and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese.
5. Arrange the mushroom-ham mixture in the pie crust, followed by the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving, garnished with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Pea Whole Wheat Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and peas with the nutty taste of whole wheat pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ham, peas, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the ham and pea mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Ham and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meal with these colorful bell peppers stuffed with ham, cheese, and healthy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, ham, cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe transforms leftover ham and sweet potatoes into a crispy, savory hash perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced leftover cooked ham
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or scallions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine diced ham, sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the edges start to crisp.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Frittata with Goat Cheese
This savory frittata combines the richness of ham and goat cheese with the freshness of asparagus, perfect for a weekend brunch or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the asparagus in 1 tablespoon of cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Add diced ham and crumbled goat cheese to the egg mixture; stir to combine.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked asparagus in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ham and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines lean ham with nutritious black beans and crunchy toppings for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunchbox addition!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas (whole wheat or corn)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, corn kernels, and cilantro. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the ham and bean mixture onto a tortilla.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Leftover Ham and Barley Soup with Carrots
A hearty and comforting soup that transforms leftover ham into a delicious meal. Perfect for using up holiday leftovers!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced ham, barley, chicken broth, onion, carrots, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
In this quick and flavorful recipe, tender noodles are paired with juicy ham and crisp zucchini for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced ham and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing with the ham and zucchini mixture.
7. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Ham and Chickpea Salad Wrap
A delicious and nutritious wrap packed with protein-rich ham, fiber-filled chickpeas, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked ham (look for nitrate-free options)
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked ham, chickpeas, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle with hummus and olive oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place the mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap tightly.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use leftover cooked ham or substitute with turkey or chicken for added variety.
– Add some crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor!
Leftover Ham and Butternut Squash Risotto
Transform leftover ham into a creamy and comforting risotto with roasted butternut squash. This recipe is perfect for using up holiday leftovers and making a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Stir in cooked ham, roasted squash, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Brussels Sprouts Sheet Pan Dinner
This one-pan dinner is a perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-pound) boneless ham steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the ham pieces on one half of the pan, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
4. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer on the other half of the pan.
5. If using thyme, sprinkle it over the Brussels sprouts.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the ham is caramelized and the Brussels sprouts are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Ham and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. By using quinoa, lean ham, and plenty of vegetables, you’ll get a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup diced lean ham (look for nitrate-free options)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, ham, onion, mushrooms, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for creative ways to use leftover ham? You’re in luck! This article features 20 delicious and healthy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From stir-fries and soups to salads, breakfast muffins, and casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or a hearty meal, these recipes showcase the versatility of leftover ham. Get ready to turn last night’s dinner into a brand new culinary experience!
