Creative & Delicious Ways to Enjoy Your Leftover Easter Ham
If you’re finding yourself with a refrigerator brimming with leftover Easter ham, congratulations! You’ve stumbled upon a delightful culinary opportunity. Far from being a burden, leftover ham is a versatile ingredient that can breathe new life into your meal planning, transitioning effortlessly from hearty, comforting dinners to quick, satisfying lunches and easy, flavorful breakfasts. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving, offering a rich, savory base for countless delicious creations.
This comprehensive guide is packed with easy, comforting, and imaginative ways to use up your leftover holiday ham. We’ve curated a collection of recipes designed not only to extend the enjoyment of your festive meal but also to spark excitement for what’s next. Get ready to transform that delectable ham into brand new family favorites, making every bite a celebration.
Cozy Soups That Make the Most of Leftover Ham
When the craving for warmth and effortless comfort strikes, a simmering pot of soup is always the perfect answer. These recipes elevate your leftover Easter ham into deeply satisfying, hearty meals that are not only budget-friendly but often taste even better the day after they’re made. Perfect for chilly evenings or a comforting lunch, they transform humble ingredients into rich, flavorful experiences.
Ham and Bean Soup
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Ham Hock Soup
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Ham and Vegetable Soup
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Easy Casseroles for Breakfast or Dinner
Casseroles stand out as one of the most convenient and satisfying ways to utilize leftover ham. They are especially perfect when you need a filling, family-friendly meal that comes together with minimal fuss. These dishes are ideal for hectic weeknights, excellent as make-ahead options, or perfect for feeding a large gathering without breaking a sweat. Their comforting layers of flavor and ingredients make them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
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Cheesy Ham and Potato Broccoli Casserole
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Ham and Cheese Breakfast Egg Casserole
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Lighter Dinners with Leftover Ham
After a substantial holiday feast, you might be yearning for something a bit lighter and fresher. These leftover ham recipes are designed to keep things vibrant and delicious, offering a welcome contrast to heavier meals while still making fantastic use of your remaining ham. They incorporate bright flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for a spring palate.
Ham Lemon Orzo with Peas
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Ham Fried Rice
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Ham and Asparagus Lemon Cream Pasta
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Savory Bakes, Appetizers & Quick Lunches
Sometimes you need recipes that can be whipped up without much foresight or effort. This category is dedicated to those kinds of dishes – quick, reliable, and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch at home, a delightful appetizer for guests, or a simple weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash, these recipes using your remaining ham are perfect for last-minute cravings and minimal planning.
Ham and Cheese Scones
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Ham and Cheese Sliders
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Ham and Cheese Puffs
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Croissant Ham and Cheese Sandwich
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Tips for Storing Leftover Ham
To ensure your delicious leftover ham stays fresh and safe for all these amazing recipes, proper storage is key. After your holiday meal, make sure to cool the ham quickly. Slice or chop it into manageable portions and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cooked ham can typically be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. These simple steps will help you maximize your ham’s flavor and extend its life, giving you more opportunities to create wonderful new meals.
Indeed, leftover Easter ham is more than just a holiday remnant; it’s a culinary treasure trove. Whether you envision it transformed into a heartwarming soup, a fuss-free casserole, a light and fresh pasta, or a quick, savory snack, these recipes provide endless inspiration. They make it incredibly simple to utilize what you already have, ensuring that nothing goes to waste while still presenting a satisfying and flavorful meal on your table.
Because sometimes, the most delightful and creative meals are born from the generous bounty of a holiday celebration, extending the joy and deliciousness long after the main event has concluded. Embrace the versatility of your leftover ham and discover new favorites that will impress your family and friends!
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 Tablspoon Olive Oil
- 4 Chicken Breasts, boneless, skinless, cut into 1″ pieces (see note)
- 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 6 Tablespoons Flour
- 1 Cup Chicken Broth
- 1 Cup Whole Milk
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
- 1 Dash Nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 teaspoons Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 8 oz Ham, chopped
- 4 Cups Swiss Cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 Tablespoon Butter
- 1 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 ℉. Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with nonstick spray.
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Skip this step if using rotisserie chicken. In a pan over medium high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken and turn to medium low. Cook 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove to a cutting board and rest 5 minutes before chopping.
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Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and let bubble until light golden brown and toasted, about 2 minutes.
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Slowly pour in the broth and milk, continuing to whisk and simmer until thickened, 4 to 6 minutes.
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Whisk in mustard, nutmeg, garlic powder and lemon juice along with the salt, and pepper.
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Stir the chicken and ham into sauce. Stir for 2 minutes and add in 2 cups cheese and immediately transfer to the baking dish.
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Top with the last 2 cups of the cheese.
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In a pan, add the butter and once melted add panko and stir until browned and sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Bake 30-35 minutes and serve.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.