Delicious Leftover Ham Ideas

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There’s a reason why big holiday meals call for ham. Ham has a one-of-a-kind blend of sweet and savory, salty, and smokey that other kinds of meat just can’t deliver. Its rich, robust flavor is not just strikingly delicious, but it also combines perfectly with dozens of iconic party sides. Potatoes au gratin, crispy green beans, roasted veggies—they’re all practically designed to be ham’s perfect match. For comfort food meals that serve a big party, it’s hard to think of a protein that can outperform your classic ham. And the full, prepared cut of ham—sometimes called a “gammon”—serves double-duty, playing the role of a gorgeous centerpiece for your dinner table.

So what do you do when that big hunk of ham outlasts the party? There’s only so many lunches you can pack with ham and cheese sandwiches before you start to consider reducing your order for your next holiday. But never fear! Betty Crocker is here, with inspired leftover ham ideas to give new life to last night’s dinner.

When it comes to leftovers, ham dishes actually have a huge advantage: the salt content gives it a decent shelf life in the fridge, so any leftover ham you use in recipes even a few days after will taste fresher for longer.

As long as it’s stored properly, cooked ham can last in the freezer for up to two months. So go ahead and get that extra-large cut of ham. You can send your guests home with some for their own leftover ham recipes and keep some for yourself.

One of the best things about a large family gathering is the leftover gammon. The Betty Crocker Kitchen has plenty of leftover ham ideas, so let’s get creative in the kitchen! You already know how versatile ham is as an ingredient. The taste of ham is deep and complex, but also widely compatible with a huge range of recipe styles and flavor profiles.

Yes, you’ve tried classic ham and cheese sandwiches, but why not turn an everyday lunch into an event with our Grilled Ham and Cheese Pull-Apart Sandwich Loaf? You know ham is great alongside eggs and toast, but have you experienced the rich yet delicate taste of Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole? What about a Hawaiian Ham and Bacon Pasta Salad for warmer temperatures after Easter?

You can always turn to Betty for incredible leftover ham ideas.  With a little inspiration, these meals with leftover ham will give even the best holiday meals a run for their money. So if you’re ready to get creative, let’s get cooking!