Are you a fan of salty, savory flavors? Do you love the taste of slow-cooked ham paired with a variety of ingredients? If so, you’re in luck! Ham is one of the most versatile meats out there, and when cooked to perfection, it can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious savory ham recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From classic comfort food dishes like scalloped potatoes with ham, to more adventurous options like ham and mushroom risotto or ham and cheese stuffed pretzels, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast casserole or a satisfying slow cooker meal, we’ve got you covered.
Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this mouthwatering Honey Glazed Ham, paired with the sweetness of pineapple. This recipe yields a tender, caramelized ham that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 1 pineapple ring, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, mustard, and marmalade.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Score the ham’s surface 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. Arrange pineapple pieces around the ham.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Savory Ham and Cheese Quiche
A classic quiche recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This savory ham and cheese quiche is a great way to use up leftover ham and is sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add cooked ham and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the ham mixture in the pie crust, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker soup that combines the flavors of ham, beans, and vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in or a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add ham steak, beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Ham and Swiss Sliders with Poppy Seed Sauce
Elevate your game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers with these bite-sized, flavorful sliders featuring a sweet and tangy poppy seed sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham slices
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices of Swiss cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the buns on both sides.
3. Assemble the sliders by placing a slice of ham, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a spoonful of poppy seed sauce on each bun.
4. Grill the sliders for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
A classic comfort dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Black Forest)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potato slices, diced ham, and onion.
3. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange half of the potato mixture in the bottom.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
5. Repeat layers, starting with the remaining potatoes, then the ham mixture, and finally the remaining cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ham and Cheddar Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the rich flavors of ham and cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the center of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each breast with the ham-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
This hearty and comforting split pea soup recipe is a perfect blend of creamy texture and savory flavor, made even richer with the addition of juicy ham. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add split peas, chicken broth, water, and ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Ham and Egg Breakfast Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the savory flavors of ham, eggs, and cheese for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13 inch baking dish
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced ham and stir until combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Dot with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful pasta bake that combines the savory taste of ham with the tender sweetness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ham, and asparagus mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory Ham and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized ham and sautéed mushrooms with Arborio rice, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 ounces cooked ham, diced
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add 1/2 cup broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in ham, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake
This recipe combines the flaky goodness of croissants with the savory flavors of ham and cheese, perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of croissant dough (thawed)
– 6 slices of cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the croissant dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place 2 slices of ham and 1/4 cup shredded cheese in the center of each croissant rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Place the filled croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Potato Hash
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch with friends. This hearty hash combines crispy potatoes, savory ham, and a hint of onion for a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, ham, and onion.
3. Add butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Alfredo
This comforting pasta dish combines the rich flavors of ham, broccoli, and Parmesan cheese with a velvety Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 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 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 flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked ham and pasta to the skillet; toss until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pretzels
Elevate your snack game with these scrumptious Ham and Cheese Stuffed Pretzels, perfect for parties or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pretzel rods (about 20-25 pretzels)
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 1 tablespoon of butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheese and diced ham.
4. Butter each pretzel rod and then wrap about 1 tablespoon of the ham-cheese mixture around the center of each pretzel.
5. Place the stuffed pretzels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the pretzels are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Pineapple Pizza
A sweet and savory twist on traditional pizza, this ham and pineapple combination is a surprisingly tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-made pizza crust or dough
– 1/4 cup of ham (diced)
– 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust or shape the dough into a circle.
3. Spread the olive oil evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the diced ham and pineapple chunks over the pizza.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines the savory flavors of ham and spinach with a creamy ricotta filling. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 16 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ham, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ham-spinach mixture.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Arrange stuffed shells in the dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the lentils, ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Cheese Omelette with Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet delicious recipe that combines the richness of ham, cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges start to set (about 1 minute).
4. Sprinkle ham, cheese, parsley, and chives over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds or until cheese is melted and eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Conclusion
Get ready to indulge in the savory goodness of ham! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this classic ingredient. From sweet treats like Honey Glazed Ham with Pineapple to hearty meals like Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with unique dishes like Ham and Swiss Sliders or elevate your brunch game with a Ham and Egg Breakfast Casserole. Discover the perfect way to enjoy ham in these easy-to-make recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
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.
