Ham A La King is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender ham and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Originating in the early 20th century, this recipe has stood the test of time thanks to its rich taste and easy preparation. It’s perfect for turning leftover ham into a satisfying meal that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
We love how versatile Ham A La King is — served over toast, rice, or noodles, it makes a quick dinner or a cozy lunch. The combination of savory ham, mushrooms, and a velvety sauce creates a deliciously hearty dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe and enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
To create our classic Ham A La King, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that build the dish’s creamy texture and savory taste. Below are the essential components categorized for ease and precision.
For the Sauce
Our rich and velvety sauce is the heart of Ham A La King, bringing all ingredients together in perfect harmony.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup chicken broth (warmed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for subtle warmth and color)
- 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional, for depth)
For the Ham and Vegetables
These ingredients provide the hearty and savory character that defines Ham A La King.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked ham | 2 cups | Cut into 1/2-inch cubes |
| White mushrooms | 1 cup | Sliced |
| Green bell pepper | 1/2 cup | Diced |
| Onion | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped |
| Frozen peas | 1/2 cup | Thawed |
Optional Garnishes
Add these to enhance presentation and bring additional flavor layers to Ham A La King.
- Chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness
- Toasted almonds for a crunchy contrast
- Cooked rice or buttered noodles to serve underneath
Tip: Using high-quality cooked ham elevates the dish’s flavor. We recommend ham with a balance of smoky and sweet notes.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Ham A La King recipe perfectly, having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process. Here are the essential tools we recommend:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Use a sturdy pan with a wide surface area to cook the ham, vegetables, and mushrooms evenly without overcrowding.
- Medium Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the rich, creamy sauce separately before combining with the ham and vegetable mixture.
- Whisk: Crucial for blending the flour and butter into a smooth roux and for gradually incorporating the milk and broth. This prevents lumps and creates a velvety texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients like chicken broth, flour, butter, and seasonings is key to balancing flavors and consistency.
- Cutting Board: A clean, sturdy surface for chopping the ham, bell pepper, onion, and parsley.
- Chef’s Knife: Sharp and versatile for precise cutting and dicing of vegetables and ham.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the mixture gently to avoid scratching cookware and ensuring even cooking.
- Colander: Helpful for rinsing frozen peas or mushrooms if needed.
- Serving Spoon: For portioning out the finished dish over toast, rice, or noodles.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Sauté ham, mushrooms, and vegetables |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare creamy sauce |
| Whisk | Blend roux and sauce smoothly |
| Measuring Cups | Measure liquid and dry ingredients accurately |
| Measuring Spoons | Measure small quantities of spices and seasoning |
| Cutting Board | Chop ham and vegetables |
| Chef’s Knife | Dice ingredients precisely |
| Wooden Spoon | Stir ingredients without damaging pans |
| Colander | Rinse vegetables if needed |
| Serving Spoon | Serve the finished dish |
“A well-prepared Ham A La King begins with having the right tools ready. This not only saves time but elevates the overall cooking experience.”
By gathering these essential items before we start, we set ourselves up for success in crafting a flavorful, creamy dish that everyone will enjoy.
Preparation
To create the perfect Ham A La King, we need to focus on preparing each component thoughtfully. Step by step, we will transform simple ingredients into a rich, creamy meal.
Preparing the Ham
First, take about 2 cups of cooked ham, preferably high-quality and diced into 1/2-inch cubes. This size ensures every bite blends well with the sauce without overpowering it.
- If the ham is refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature for even heating.
- We recommend trimming any excess fat to keep the dish rich but balanced.
- To enhance flavor, briefly sauté the ham cubes in the skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a slight caramelization. This step adds depth to our creamy sauce.
Chopping Vegetables
For the perfect medley of textures and flavors, prepare the vegetables meticulously:
| Vegetable | Quantity | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| White mushrooms | 1 cup | Clean and slice thinly |
| Green bell pepper | 1/2 cup | Seed, remove ribs, dice finely |
| Onion | 1/2 cup | Peel, chop finely |
| Frozen peas | 1/2 cup | Thaw and drain thoroughly |
- We want uniform chopping so the vegetables cook evenly and blend into the sauce seamlessly.
- Slicing mushrooms thinly encourages tenderness while retaining a mild earthiness.
- The small dice of pepper and onion release vibrant freshness, balancing the richness.
Making the Sauce Base
The sauce is the heart of Ham A La King — creamy with a subtle kick.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour steadily, cooking for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbling but not browned. This step cooks off raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in liquids to avoid lumps:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Add seasonings carefully for balanced depth:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder for subtle sharpness
- Continue stirring and simmer gently for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a rich velvety texture.
“The sauce should coat the back of a spoon smoothly,” indicating perfect consistency before folding in ham and vegetables.
This foundational step guarantees our Ham A La King will be deliciously creamy and perfectly seasoned.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create a rich and creamy Ham A La King that showcases tender ham, fresh vegetables, and a velvety sauce.
Cooking the Vegetables
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to melt completely.
- Sauté the chopped white mushrooms, green bell pepper, and onion for about 5 to 7 minutes until they turn tender and slightly golden.
- Stir occasionally using a wooden spoon to prevent sticking.
- Add 1/2 cup of thawed frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
Adding the Ham
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and melt over medium heat.
- Add 2 cups of diced cooked ham, cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Sauté the ham for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through and slightly browned, releasing a savory aroma.
- Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the ham from heat and set aside with the vegetables.
Combining With the Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly but not browned.
- Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy texture—approximately 5 minutes.
- Season the sauce with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and optionally 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder.
- Fold in the sautéed vegetables and ham, stirring gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Heat the combined mixture for 2 minutes to meld flavors perfectly.
- Serve your Ham A La King hot over toast, rice, or noodles, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and toasted almonds if desired.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | Divided for sautéing and sauce |
| Cooked ham | 2 cups | Diced into 1/2-inch cubes |
| White mushrooms | 1 cup | Chopped |
| Green bell pepper | 1/2 cup | Chopped |
| Onion | 1/2 cup | Chopped |
| Frozen peas | 1/2 cup | Thawed |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | For thickening sauce |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Added gradually to sauce |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Added gradually to sauce |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | To taste |
| Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds mild spice and color |
| Dry mustard powder | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) | Enhances flavor |
Serving Suggestions
Ham A La King shines with its creamy texture and comforting flavors. We can enhance its appeal by pairing it with classic or inventive accompaniments that highlight its rich, savory profile.
Traditional Serving Ideas
- Over Buttered Toast: Serving Ham A La King over thick slices of buttered toast amps up the comfort factor. The toast soaks up the creamy sauce, offering a delightful contrast between crispy bread and velvety topping.
- On Steamed White Rice: A bed of fluffy steamed white rice provides a neutral base that lets the creamy, savory sauce stand out. The rice absorbs the sauce beautifully making each bite satisfying.
- With Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles tossed with a bit of butter serve as a classic canvas. Their mild richness complements the sauce and ham perfectly.
- Accompanied by Simple Green Salad: We find a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish and refreshes the palate.
| Traditional Serving | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Buttered Toast | Toasted bread spread with butter | Absorbs sauce, adds crunch |
| Steamed White Rice | Plain fluffy rice | Neutral base, soaks up creamy sauce |
| Egg Noodles | Wide buttered noodles | Mild and buttery complement |
| Green Salad | Fresh greens, light vinaigrette | Cleanses palate, adds freshness |
Creative Serving Options
- In a Puff Pastry Shell: Filling a golden flaky puff pastry shell with Ham A La King turns it into an elegant appetizer or entrée, adding texture and a touch of sophistication.
- Stuffed in Baked Potatoes: We scoop out a hot baked potato and fill it with creamy ham mixture for a hearty, soul-warming meal. The potato’s fluffy interior contrasts nicely with the rich sauce.
- On Garlic Herb Biscuits: Warm buttery biscuits brushed with garlic herb butter become irresistible when topped with a generous helping of our creamy ham and mushroom sauce.
- As a Casserole Topping: Layering Ham A La King over cooked rice or pasta in a casserole dish, then topping it with grated cheese and baking until bubbly, offers a crowd-pleasing meal with a crispy finish.
- Over Polenta or Grits: Creamy polenta or cheesy grits underneath the rich ham mixture brings in a Southern flair, combining smooth textures and savory flavors.
| Creative Serving | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Puff Pastry Shells | Golden flaky shell filled with ham mixture | Adds elegance and crunchy texture |
| Baked Potatoes | Potato stuffed with creamy ham filling | Hearty and textural contrast |
| Garlic Herb Biscuits | Buttery biscuits topped with ham sauce | Buttery and savory combination |
| Casserole Topping | Ham mixture layered then baked with cheese | Comforting, bubbly and crispy edges |
| Polenta or Grits | Creamy base topped with ham sauce | Smooth Southern style richness |
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time and still enjoy the rich flavors of Ham A La King, we recommend these proven make-ahead strategies. Preparation in advance helps lock in the creamy texture and savory taste while streamlining your cooking process.
Preparing the Sauce and Ingredients Ahead
- Cook and cool the creamy sauce completely. After melting butter, whisking in flour, and slowly adding milk and chicken broth with seasonings, let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Dice and sauté the ham and vegetables (mushrooms, green bell pepper, onion). Allow them to cool, then store separately in sealed containers.
- Keep frozen peas thawed in the refrigerator and ready for quick addition.
Reheating and Combining
When ready to serve:
- Gently reheat the sauce in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its silky consistency.
- Warm sautéed ham and vegetables in a skillet with a small amount of butter.
- Fold the warmed ham and vegetable mixture into the sauce.
- Heat through for 3–5 minutes until the dish is hot and creamy but avoid boiling to prevent sauce separation.
Storage and Timing
| Item | Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time | Reheat Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creamy Sauce | Airtight container, refrigeration | 24 hours | Reheat on low heat, whisk to restore texture |
| Sautéed Ham and Vegetables | Airtight container, refrigeration | 24 hours | Warm gently in skillet before mixing |
| Combined Dish | Airtight container, refrigeration | Up to 2 days | Reheat gently stirring often to avoid curdling |
Additional Tips
- If preparing more than 24 hours in advance, freeze the sauce and ham mixture separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- For best flavor and texture, combine and serve the dish freshly reheated, avoiding multiple reheating cycles.
- Garnishes such as toasted almonds or chopped parsley can be prepped ahead but should be added immediately before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we enjoy the classic, comforting flavors of Ham A La King with less stress and more time to savor every creamy bite.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage and reheating are essential to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor of our Ham A La King recipe. Follow these detailed instructions to enjoy leftovers just as much as the freshly made dish.
Storing Ham A La King
- Allow the dish to cool slightly at room temperature for no longer than 1 hour before storing.
- Transfer the Ham A La King to an airtight container to preserve freshness.
- Refrigerate promptly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. This keeps well for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Maximum Storage Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | 34°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C) |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe container or resealable bag | 2 months | 0°F (-18°C) or below |
“Tip: Label the container with the date stored to keep track of freshness.”
Reheating Ham A La King
- Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
- Gently reheat on the stovetop over low to medium heat to prevent curdling or separating.
- Stir frequently to maintain creaminess and prevent scorching.
- If reheated from frozen directly, use a low setting and add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
- Avoid overheating as it can cause the sauce to become grainy and the ham to dry out.
“Reminder: Reheat only once to ensure food safety and maintain quality.”
With these storage and reheating tips, our Ham A La King stays just as delicious and comforting as when freshly prepared, letting us savor every creamy, flavorful bite.
Conclusion
Ham A La King brings together comfort and elegance in one creamy, flavorful dish. Its versatility makes it perfect for any meal, whether served over toast, rice, or noodles. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into our busy lives without sacrificing taste.
By preparing it ahead and storing it properly, we can enjoy this classic anytime with minimal effort. This timeless dish continues to be a favorite because it satisfies with every rich, hearty bite. Let’s keep this comforting tradition alive in our kitchens and share it with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ham A La King?
Ham A La King is a classic comfort dish featuring tender cooked ham in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and peas. It’s typically served over toast, rice, or noodles.
Where did Ham A La King originate?
Ham A La King dates back to the early 20th century and has remained popular due to its delicious flavor and easy preparation.
What ingredients are needed to make Ham A La King?
Key ingredients include cooked ham, white mushrooms, green bell pepper, onion, frozen peas, unsalted butter, flour, whole milk, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional dry mustard.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, a medium saucepan, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, chef’s knife, wooden spoon or spatula, colander, and serving spoon.
How do you make the creamy sauce for Ham A La King?
Melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk and chicken broth while stirring until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and optional dry mustard for a velvety texture.
What are some popular ways to serve Ham A La King?
Serve it over buttered toast, steamed rice, or egg noodles. Creative options include puff pastry shells, baked potatoes, garlic herb biscuits, casseroles, polenta, or grits.
Can Ham A La King be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sautéed ham with vegetables in advance, store them separately in airtight containers, then reheat and combine before serving.
How should I store leftover Ham A La King?
Cool leftovers, store in airtight containers, and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat Ham A La King?
Thaw frozen portions overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Avoid overheating to keep the sauce creamy and prevent curdling.
Can I customize Ham A La King?
Absolutely! You can adjust vegetables, add spices, or serve it with different sides to suit your taste and make it your own.