Creative Leftover Ham Recipes for Quick Weeknight Meals

After roasting a delicious ham, you’ll likely have leftovers to transform into new meals. These leftover ham ideas go far beyond basic soup—find casseroles, sandwiches, pastas and more. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a slow-simmered comfort meal, there’s an option here to suit every craving.

pasta fagioli in a bowl with spoon

How Long Is Leftover Ham Good?

Leftover ham keeps well when stored properly. Refrigerated, cooked ham will last about 3–4 days; frozen, it can keep for several months. If you saved the ham bone, you’ve got the perfect start for flavorful broths and hearty soups. Even without the bone, there are plenty of recipes that make the most of diced ham, ham steaks or thick deli slices.

Below are a range of recipes that use leftover ham in different ways—from cozy slow-cooker pots to fast pasta dinners and make-ahead casseroles. Each recipe is adaptable, so you can use what you have on hand and reduce waste while enjoying tasty meals.

Navy Bean Soup

Turn a ham bone into a rich, comforting Navy Bean Soup. This hearty bowl features tender beans and vegetables simmered in homemade ham broth for deep, savory flavor.

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Slow Cooker Ham Noodle Soup

A forgiving, hands-off recipe that makes excellent use of leftover ham. Let the slow cooker meld the flavors, producing tender noodles and a flavorful broth everyone will enjoy.

4.7/5 from 3 ratings

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Western Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Combine ham with peppers, onions, mushrooms and cheese for a hearty breakfast casserole. It’s a filling, crowd-pleasing way to use leftover ham for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner.

5/5 from 1 ratings

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Crustless Ham And Broccoli Quiche

A low-carb, family-friendly quiche that works for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. The savory combo of ham and broccoli is simple and satisfying.

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Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli

Use a ham bone to build a robust base for pasta e fagioli. The slow cooker extracts deep flavor, creating a comforting, family-sized soup with beans, pasta and tender ham.

5/5 from 1 ratings

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Pasta with Ham and Peas

A simple, comforting pasta dish that’s kid-friendly and quick to prepare. Diced ham and peas tossed with pasta make for a satisfying weeknight meal.

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Pasta Fazool

Also known as Pasta e Fagioli, this hearty Italian soup is a family favorite. With beans, pasta and generous chunks of ham, it delivers big, comforting flavor with minimal fuss.

5/5 from 1 ratings

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Cheesy Shells and Ham

A cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for leftover ham. If you don’t have leftovers, a ham steak or thick deli slices work just as well for this comforting dish.

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Split Pea Soup With Ham

This classic split pea soup is deeply flavorful when made with a ham bone or diced ham. It can be prepared on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, and yields a thick, satisfying bowl that’s ideal for chilly days.

5/5 from 5 ratings

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Chopped Italian Sub

Chopped Italian subs combine deli meats, tomatoes and peppers with a creamy, tangy dressing. They’re ideal for game days, parties or a filling dinner—perfect for mixing in leftover ham slices.

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Lentil Soup with Ham

A nourishing lentil soup becomes even heartier with ham or a ham bone. Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s an excellent way to repurpose leftovers into a filling meal.

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Ham Salad Recipe

This easy ham salad mixes diced ham with a creamy, tangy dressing and seasonings—great for sandwiches, wraps or served with crackers. It’s a quick way to use leftover ham for lunches or party appetizers.

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