Are you tired of reheating the same old leftover ham for every meal? Do you wish you had some creative ways to use up that delicious, savory ham? Look no further! Ina Garten’s Barefoot Contessa has got you covered. With a plethora of mouth-watering recipes featuring leftover ham as the star of the show, you’ll never get bored with your leftovers again.
From classic combinations like quiche and soup, to more adventurous dishes like scones and risotto, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 19 tasty treats. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meal ideas, or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most creative and delicious leftover ham recipes from Barefoot Contessa, and provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to start cooking up a storm. So go ahead, get excited about those leftovers, and let’s get cooking!
Ham and Cheese Quiche with a Flaky Crust
A classic brunch favorite, this quiche combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced ham
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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. Sprinkle shredded cheese and diced ham evenly over the crust.
5. Pour egg mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the quiche is set.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender ham, potatoes, and a hint of creaminess. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the ham, potatoes, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Cheddar Scones with Chives
Start your day off right with these savory scones, packed with the flavors of ham, cheddar, and fresh chives. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese, ham, and chives until just combined.
5. Gradually add heavy cream until a dough forms.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Leftover Ham and Spinach Frittata
Transform last night’s leftover ham into a delicious breakfast or brunch with this easy frittata recipe. Perfect for using up scraps and reducing food waste, this dish is also packed with nutritious spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover diced ham
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 6 eggs
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
3. Add chopped spinach and cooked ham to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour egg mixture over the ham and spinach mixture in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are fully cooked.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on classic fried rice! This recipe combines savory ham with sweet pineapple and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped up in a savory soy sauce-infused dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (e.g., green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned (about 3 minutes).
3. Push the ham to one side; add remaining oil, garlic, bell peppers, and pineapple. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir-fry everything together, adding cooked rice to combine with the vegetables and ham.
5. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Casserole with Cheese Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This casserole combines the savory flavors of ham, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the broccoli in butter until tender. Set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the diced ham, cooked broccoli, and shredded cheese to the soup mixture. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Swiss Stuffed Croissants
These buttery croissants are elevated by a savory filling of ham and Swiss cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of ham (such as prosciutto or serrano)
– 6 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into squares, approximately 4 inches per side.
4. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese in the center of each square.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each croissant.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish gets a savory twist with the addition of salty ham and earthy mushrooms. This recipe yields a comforting, creamy risotto that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 6 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 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, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, then add 1/2 cup broth and stir until almost absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for it to absorb before adding more.
5. Stir in butter, ham, salt, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Bean Chili with a Kick
Spice up your chili game with this Ham and Bean Chili recipe that packs a punch! This hearty dish combines the smoky flavor of ham, tender beans, and a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 jalapeños, diced (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ham steak in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, brown sugar, and jalapeños. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Pasta Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory dish that combines the flavors of ham, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup cooked ham, diced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked ham to the skillet and stir to combine with asparagus.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Combine cooked pasta, ham-asparagus mixture, and cream sauce. Toss until coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of smoky ham, sweet corn, and fresh herbs. Serve it as a comforting main course or as a side dish for a cozy gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or dill), chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, corn kernels, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in chopped fresh herbs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of ham, making it a perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the ham. Toss everything together to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Gruyere Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and savory twist on traditional French toast. This recipe combines the richness of ham and Gruyère cheese with the comfort of warm, crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or brioche bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 4 slices of cooked ham (such as prosciutto or Canadian bacon)
– 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, sugar, and half-and-half until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, place a slice of ham and a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese onto one half of each French toast slice.
6. Fold the other half of the bread over to enclose the filling.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Pea Carbonara
This creamy pasta dish gets a boost from the salty sweetness of ham and the crunch of fresh peas. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced ham over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl with egg mixture. Toss until well combined, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Stir in cooked ham and fresh peas. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of ham with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon 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 onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the cabbage and cooked ham; stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
4. Add soy sauce to taste; season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Tomato Galette with Puff Pastry
Ham and Tomato Galette with Puff Pastry: A delicious and easy-to-make savory tart that combines the flavors of caramelized ham, sweet tomatoes, and flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the diced ham in a spiral pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the ham with tomato slices, overlapping them slightly to cover the entire surface.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the pastry with a little bit of water and sprinkle with thyme leaves if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Lentil Stew with Carrots
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the richness of ham, the nuttiness of lentils, and the sweetness of carrots. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable 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, garlic, and carrots in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the lentils, ham, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 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: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Bell Pepper Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast burritos! This recipe combines crispy ham, sautéed bell peppers, scrambled eggs, and creamy cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 tortillas
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 4 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
4. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the burritos by filling with scrambled eggs, bell pepper mixture, and shredded cheese.
7. Roll up tightly and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Brie Panini with Fig Jam
Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make panini that combines the richness of ham, brie cheese, and fig jam.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 2 tablespoons of fig jam
– 2 ounces of thinly sliced ham
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for the panini press
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of two slices of bread with fig jam.
3. Top each slice with a piece of ham, followed by crumbled Brie cheese.
4. Place the other slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Discover 19 creative ways to repurpose leftover ham from Barefoot Contessa. From savory dishes like Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, Ham and Bean Chili with a Kick, and Ham and Broccoli Casserole with Cheese Sauce, to sweet treats like Ham and Gruyere Stuffed French Toast and Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice, these recipes will inspire you to think outside the box when it comes to using up leftover ham. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast option or an easy weeknight dinner, there’s something on this list for everyone.