Holiday feasts are known for generous portions, and ham often takes center stage — which means there’s almost always plenty left behind once the plates are cleared.
Whether it’s easter ham or a Christmas centerpiece, those extras don’t have to sit forgotten in the fridge.
With so many dishes on the holiday table — casseroles, pies, and sweet treats included — it’s no surprise that not every slice gets eaten.
In fact, leftover holiday ham (like leftover turkey) is one of the easiest ingredients to transform into brand-new meals.
From cozy breakfasts to hearty dinners, ham shines in all kinds of comforting dishes. Think creamy cheesy ham bakes, satisfying ham and broccoli casseroles, soups, quiches, and skillet meals that feel nothing like leftovers.
With just a little creativity, yesterday’s main dish becomes today’s star.
This collection of 20 simple yet inventive leftover ham recipes is designed to help you make the most of every bite — keeping your meals delicious, varied, and waste-free long after the holiday ends.
20. Make Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Ham!
This bow tie pasta salad is a true classic that never fails at gatherings.
Diced ham, crisp bell peppers, sweet peas, and cubes of cheddar cheese are tossed with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy dressing that coats every bite. It’s colorful, filling, and comforting without being heavy, making it ideal for barbecues, potlucks, and family picnics.
The bow tie (farfalle) pasta isn’t just cute—it’s practical. All those folds and ridges trap the dressing, so every forkful is packed with flavor. Even better, this salad actually improves with time, making it perfect to prepare ahead and keep chilled until serving.
19. Hearty and Flavorful Leftover Ham And Bean Soup for Chilly Nights
This ham and bean soup is the definition of cozy comfort food. Tender chunks of leftover ham simmer slowly with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and creamy cannellini beans to create a rich, satisfying broth that warms you from the inside out.
This soup transforms leftovers into a brand-new meal that feels intentional and nourishing, not like an afterthought. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a complete, hearty dinner the whole family will love.
18. Ham Tetrazzini – Perfect Meal for Easter Leftovers
Ham tetrazzini is a creamy baked pasta dish that turns leftovers into something indulgent and irresistible. Spaghetti is tossed with diced ham, sweet peas, parsley, and a silky cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
Inspired by classic turkey tetrazzini, this version is equally comforting and rich. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, freezes well, and feels special enough that you might start making ham just so you can bake this dish.
17. Decadent Leftover Ham Sandwich
These ham and Swiss sandwiches are dangerously good. Thick slices of ham are layered with melty Swiss cheese, tangy mustard, and an unexpected touch of strawberry jam, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Crisped in the oven or skillet, these sandwiches feel indulgent and comforting at the same time. They’re ideal for lunch, dinner, or even late-night snacking—and once you try them, plain ham sandwiches will never feel exciting again.
16. Leftover Ham and Split Pea Soup – Something Amazing with Minimal Prep!
Split pea soup is a timeless way to use leftover ham, especially pieces close to the bone.
The peas cook down into a thick, velvety texture while carrots and potatoes add body and heartiness to the soup.
15. Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
This Southern scalloped potatoes and ham dish is rich, creamy, and deeply comforting. Thinly sliced potatoes bake slowly in a luscious sauce, absorbing all the flavors of the smoky ham and melted cheese.
Pair it with something fresh and green to balance the richness, and you have a meal that feels like a warm hug.
14. Ham and Cheese Sliders – my Favorite Leftover Ham Recipe!
Ham and cheese sliders are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Soft rolls are layered with savory ham and cheese, then brushed with a buttery glaze made with mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
Baked until golden and gooey, these sliders are easy to make in large batches and disappear almost instantly. They’re perfect for parties, lunches, or casual dinners when you want something comforting and effortless.
13. Healthy Leftover Ham Pasta with Peas – Easy Recipe for Holidays
This lighter pasta dish is a great way to balance out rich holiday meals. Leftover ham is paired with peas, tomatoes, mushrooms, and herbs for a simple yet flavorful sauce that feels fresh and satisfying.
Using pantry staples makes this recipe incredibly convenient, while the vegetables keep it from feeling heavy. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t taste like leftovers at all.
12. Golden Brown Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Turnovers
These puff pastry turnovers are flaky, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Filled with ham, sharp cheddar, and Dijon mustard, they deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
They’re elegant enough for entertaining but easy enough for everyday cooking. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, especially when served warm and golden straight from the oven.
11. Hearty and Delicious Cabbage Soup Recipe (can use Ham Leftover)
This cabbage soup is simple, nourishing, and deeply comforting. Savoy cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmer together into a hearty base that can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with leftover ham.
The soup is flexible and forgiving, making it easy to customize. It’s a great way to stretch ingredients while still serving something wholesome and filling.
10. Best Ham Salad Recipe (Old Fashioned)
Old-fashioned ham salad is a nostalgic favorite that comes together in minutes. Finely chopped ham is mixed with a creamy dressing and simple seasonings, making it perfect for sandwiches or crackers.
It’s ideal when you want something quick, comforting, and familiar. Whether for lunch or a snack tray, this recipe makes excellent use of leftover ham.
9. Buttermilk Quiche Recipe with Savory Ham, Cheddar, And Chives
This buttermilk quiche has a rich, custardy filling with a subtle tang from the buttermilk. Savory ham, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives add depth and balance to every bite.
The flaky crust and creamy interior make this dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s versatile, elegant, and endlessly customizable.
8. Cheese Ham Casserole with Noodles
This noodle casserole is comfort food at its finest. Tender pasta, ham, Swiss cheese, and creamy mushroom sauce bake together into a warm, satisfying dish.
It’s ideal for potlucks, holidays, or feeding a crowd. Simple ingredients and big flavors make this a reliable, no-fail recipe.
7. Delicious Ham Fried Rice Recipe
Ham fried rice is one of the fastest and tastiest ways to use leftovers. In just 15 minutes, ham, rice, eggs, and vegetables come together into a savory, satisfying meal.
6. Make Chunky Ham, Potato, Cheese and Broccoli Soup in Slow Cooker
This slow cooker soup is thick, rich, and incredibly comforting. Ham, potatoes, broccoli, and cheese cook together into a hearty bowl of pure comfort.
It’s ideal for cold days and busy schedules, requiring very little hands-on time. The result is a filling, nutrient-packed meal the whole family will love.
5. Easy Ham and White Bean Chowder
This creamy chowder is smooth, comforting, and full of flavor. White beans create a silky texture, while ham adds saltiness and depth to the broth.
Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple, satisfying, and reliable.
4. Hawaiian Chopped Ham Salad Recipe with Easter Leftovers
This Hawaiian-style ham salad puts a playful spin on the classic. Sweet and savory flavors combine to create something refreshing and unexpected.
It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into leftovers and works well for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps.
3. Cozy Old-Fashioned Ham Soup with Cabbage and Potatoes
This soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Ham, cabbage, potatoes, and herbs simmer together into a hearty, flavorful broth.
It’s a one-pot meal that feels nourishing and grounding—perfect for cold days and quiet evenings at home.
2. Olivier Salad (use Leftover Ham and Potato)
Olivier salad is a rich, creamy classic made with potatoes, eggs, vegetables, and ham, all bound together with mayonnaise.
Popular at celebrations and gatherings, this salad is filling, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying, making it a timeless favorite.
1. Pork Wonton Stars – Easy Leftover Ham Recipe
These crispy wonton stars are a fun and creative way to use leftover ham. Filled with savory pork and ham, they bake into crunchy, golden bites.
They’re perfect as appetizers, party snacks, or even a light main dish. Serve them hot or at room temperature—just be sure to make plenty.
20 Delicious and Easy Leftover HAM Recipes
Ingredients
- Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Ham
- Hearty and Flavorful Leftover Ham And Bean Soup
- Ham Tetrazzini
- Decadent Leftover Ham Sandwich
- Leftover Ham and Split Pea Soup
- Southern Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Recipe
- Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Healthy Leftover Ham Pasta with Peas
- Puff Pastry Ham and Cheese Turnovers
- Delicious Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Old Fashioned Ham Salad
- Buttermilk Quiche With Ham, Cheddar, And Chives
- Ham Casserole - Swiss Cheese & Noodle Bake
- Ham Fried Rice
- Slow Cooker Chunky Ham, Potato, Cheese and Broccoli Soup
- Ham and White Bean Chowder
- Hawaiian Chopped Ham Salad Recipe
- Old-Fashioned Ham and Cabbage Soup with Potatoes
- Olivier Salad
- Pork Wonton Stars
Instructions
- Choose any Leftover Ham Recipes from the post that you like.
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Leftover Ham Recipes and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!