It’s Easter! And if you’re looking for ways to use up the leftover Easter ham in your fridge, you’re not alone. Ham’s salty and smoky notes tend to take center stage in dishes, so using up your leftovers is all about finding recipes that complement those flavours.
We’ve got all the inspo you need. Read on for our top 10 Easter leftover ham recipes, including cozy mac and cheese, next-level ham sandwiches and so much more.
Seven Layer Salad
Still entertaining? We’ll let you in on a secret: leftover ham can be just as crowd-pleasing the second time around if you make this salad. Made with a mix of Easter leftovers and fridge staples, like leftover hard-boiled eggs and cheddar cheese, this salad is ideal for cleaning out your fridge after the holiday. It’s also topped with the most irresistible homemade ranch — a dressing that’s sure to become a new family fave.
Baked Eggs and Sweet Potato Hash
Whether you’re serving brunch or craving breakfast for dinner, this one-pan breakfast hash is a must-try. It’s easy to make but packed with kid-friendly flavour, thanks to a dash of Club House Taco Seasoning. It’s also adaptable: our recipe calls for using onions, peppers and sweet potatoes, but you could sub in any (roastable) veggie left in your fridge.
Ham and Cheese Quiche
Quiche is our go-to meal to use up leftovers, and this ham and cheese version is simple yet delicious. It’s got meaty ham, a flavourful mix of Swiss and cheddar cheeses, plus onion and pepper to help you get your veggies. It also comes together quickly, thanks to store-bought pie crust. Serve it for post-Easter brunch, dinner, or for lunches throughout the week.
Caramelized Apple and Ham Croque Monsieur
You worked hard on Easter, and this recipe is a delicious way to treat yourself. It perfectly blends the sweet flavours of caramelized apples with the salty notes of the ham and gruyere, and tastes rich and luxurious thanks to a homemade béchamel. If you’re looking for an opportunity to learn French-inspired cooking techniques, this recipe is the ideal place to start.
Ham and Turkey Sub with Creamy Yellow Mustard
If, on the other hand, you’re ready for a post-Easter break, use your leftovers to make easy-but-delicious ham sandwiches. These subs keep it simple, letting the natural flavours of the ham, turkey and mustard shine through.
Italian-Style XO Sauce
Sometimes, all you need is some sauce to give leftover ham a new life. And this Italian-inspired take on a classic sauce from Hong Kong, can upgrade your leftovers. It’s loaded with intense umami flavour, thanks to tomato and anchovy paste, plus sun-dried tomatoes and seasonings. Smear it on a ham sandwich, or stir a spoonful into ham and pasta for an easy but unforgettable meal.
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
After Easter, most of the country is still deep in soup season, so why not use your leftovers to make this slow cooker ham and potato soup? It’s comforting and hearty, pairing meaty ham with russet potatoes, corn and seasonings in a creamy broth. It also tastes amazing with leafy greens, so wilt a handful of leftover spinach or kale into the soup before serving to pack in more veggies.
Chunky Tomato Soup
If you’re looking for a soup recipe that reminds you of the warmer days ahead, give this tasty tomato soup a try. This recipe uses chunks of carrot, celery and onion to add rustic texture to the dish, plus chunks of ham for a meaty flavour. It’s also topped with the most delicious homemade croutons to help you use up your leftover bread.
Ham and Swiss Mac and Cheese
Hello, comfort food! It doesn’t get cozier than this creamy homemade mac and cheese. Using Swiss in place of classic cheddar gives this dish an unexpected savoury and nutty flavour, while a mustard- and sage-infused sauce tastes warming and delicious. Use your leftover bread to make breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Black Eyed Peas
Ham is a staple ingredient in Southern cooking, and this black eyed peas recipe brings Soul Food-inspired flavour to your table. A mix of bacon, ham, garlic and black pepper infuse each bean with smoky, savoury and meaty flavour for a hearty and irresistible meal.
