Are you tired of throwing away leftover ham after a holiday feast? Look no further! Ina Garten’s classic Barefoot Contessa cookbooks are filled with creative and delicious ways to use up that extra ham. From quiches and soups to pasta dishes and breakfast casseroles, we’ve scoured the recipes to bring you 20 mouth-watering leftover ham ideas that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of our favorite Barefoot Contessa leftover ham recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a fan of Ina’s elegant approach to cooking or just looking for new and exciting ways to use up your leftovers, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Ham and Cheese Quiche with Fresh Herbs
A classic quiche recipe gets a fresh twist with the addition of savory ham, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange ham, cheese, parsley, and garlic evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour egg mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Savor a warm and comforting bowl of creamy ham and potato soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a pick-me-up on a chilly day. This hearty recipe combines the richness of ham with the simplicity of potatoes and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and spinach with creamy ricotta cheese and tender pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ham, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the ham and spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Ham and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole
Revamp last night’s leftover ham into a delicious breakfast treat with this easy casserole recipe. Perfect for brunch or a quick morning meal, it combines the savory flavors of ham, cheese, and eggs with crispy bread and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 loaf stale French bread, cubed (about 3 cups)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter. Add diced ham and stir until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheese with cubed bread.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the egg mixture, followed by the bread-cheese mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Pea Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of peas with the savory taste of ham and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Add diced ham and peas; cook for 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Swiss Sliders with Honey Mustard
These bite-sized sliders are a twist on the classic ham and cheese sandwich, featuring sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 8 small hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the ham into thin strips.
3. Assemble the sliders by placing a slice of cheese on each bun, followed by a few slices of ham.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Brush the tops of the sliders with the honey mustard mixture.
6. Grill the sliders for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Corn Chowder with Fresh Thyme
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. The combination of smoky ham, sweet corn, and fresh thyme creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in diced ham, corn kernels, chicken broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, and thyme.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Pasta Alfredo
A classic comfort food dish that combines the richness of ham with the sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. fettuccine or linguine)
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté diced ham and minced garlic over medium heat until lightly browned.
3. Add trimmed asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, ham-asparagus mixture, and Alfredo sauce in a large serving dish. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Frittata
A versatile breakfast or brunch option, this ham and mushroom frittata is perfect for a quick morning meal or as a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini work well)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and ham in butter until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the mushroom mixture in the skillet.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through and slightly golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Ham and White Bean Stew with Rosemary
This comforting stew combines the savory flavors of ham, white beans, and rosemary to create a satisfying and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, water, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Cheese Bake
A comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this creamy ham and broccoli cheese bake combines the flavors of tender ham, crisp broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced ham, broccoli florets, and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and paprika. Pour the mixture over the ham and broccoli mixture; stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Gruyère Croissant Bake
A savory twist on the classic croissant bake, this recipe combines the flaky pastry with the rich flavors of ham and Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a brunch or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package croissant dough (thawed)
– 6 slices of cooked ham
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the croissant dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the ham slices on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around each slice.
4. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the ham.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Use a knife or pastry brush to create a decorative edge.
7. Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each one.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs
Start your day off right with this hearty and flavorful hash, featuring crispy sweet potatoes, savory ham, and a perfectly cooked egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced ham over medium heat until crispy.
4. Crack an egg into the skillet and scramble it with the cooked ham.
5. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Green Bean Casserole
This comforting casserole is a staple of many holiday gatherings. With its combination of savory ham, tender green beans, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen green beans, thawed
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add green beans, ham, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry combines the savory flavors of ham and cabbage with a hint of soy sauce, making it a quick and easy meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ham and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly browned.
3. Add the cabbage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and garlic (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Brie Panini with Fig Jam
Elevate your lunch game with these sweet and savory paninis, featuring salty ham, creamy brie, and the perfect hint of fig jam.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 4 oz ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham), thinly sliced
– 2 oz brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– Fresh arugula leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface.
3. Top each slice with a few pieces of ham, followed by a spoonful of brie cheese and a dollop of fig jam.
4. Place the remaining bread slices on top of the filling.
5. Cook the paninis in the press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Ham and Lentil Soup with Carrots
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich ham, nutritious lentils, and sweet carrots. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham, diced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the ham, onion, and garlic until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the lentils, carrots, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ham and Scalloped Potatoes with Gruyère
This hearty dish combines the richness of ham with the creamy, cheesy goodness of scalloped potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package of thinly sliced ham
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer.
3. Dot the top with butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Top with half of the ham slices, followed by half of the Gruyère cheese.
5. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
6. Pour heavy cream over the potatoes and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Ham and Pea Fried Rice
A flavorful and satisfying Chinese-inspired dish that combines savory ham with sweet peas and fluffy rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-style entrees.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked ham, peas, and soy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are tender.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry until well combined with the ham and pea mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of ham and apple.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced ham
– 1/4 cup of diced apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, apples, and cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per sandwich
Summary
In this article, discover 20 mouth-watering recipes that will transform your leftover ham into a culinary masterpiece. From classic quiche and soup to innovative pasta dishes and breakfast treats, these easy-to-make recipes showcase the versatility of ham in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, Barefoot Contessa’s collection of ham-based recipes has something for everyone. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 delicious and creative leftover ham recipes!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
