Ham Ala King is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender ham in a rich and creamy sauce loaded with colorful vegetables. It’s a nostalgic recipe that many of us grew up enjoying at family gatherings or holiday dinners. This dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and satisfying, making it an ideal way to use leftover ham.
What makes Ham Ala King stand out is its velvety sauce, often made with a blend of cream, broth, and seasonings that elevate simple ingredients into something truly special. We love how versatile it is—you can serve it over toast, rice, or pasta for a quick and hearty meal that feels homemade and indulgent.
Whether you’re looking to revive a vintage favorite or try something new with your ham, this recipe is straightforward and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into making a delicious Ham Ala King that’ll quickly become a go-to comfort food in our kitchens.
Ingredients
To make our Ham Ala King truly shine, we gather fresh, flavorful ingredients that create its iconic creamy texture and vibrant taste. Below are the essentials divided for easy preparation.
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for subtle warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Ham and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup pimentos, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter (to sauté vegetables)
For Serving
- Toast points, warm cooked rice, or buttered egg noodles
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp + 2 tbsp | Separate for sauce and sautéing |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup | For thickening the sauce |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups | Use low sodium for control of saltiness |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | Adds richness to the sauce |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Paprika | 1/4 tsp | Optional garnish-spice |
| Garlic Powder | 1/4 tsp | For depth of flavor |
| Cooked Ham | 2 cups | Diced into 1/2-inch cubes |
| Green Peas | 1/2 cup | Fresh or frozen works |
| Pimentos | 1/2 cup | Chopped for color & sweetness |
| Mushrooms | 1/2 cup | Sliced, adds earthiness |
| Onions | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped, for savoriness |
| Serving Options | As needed | Toast, rice, or noodles |
With these ingredients ready, we set the stage to build our velvety Ham Ala King sauce and combine it flawlessly with tender ham and vibrant vegetables.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the classic Ham Ala King successfully, we need to have the right tools at hand. Below is a list of essential equipment to ensure our cooking process is smooth and efficient:
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the ham and vegetables evenly. Choose one with a heavy bottom to prevent scorching.
- Medium saucepan: To prepare the creamy sauce separately if desired, helping maintain better control over sauce consistency.
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula: For stirring the roux and sauce without scratching the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are crucial, especially for thickening the sauce properly.
- Cutting board and sharp chef’s knife: To dice the ham and chop vegetables neatly.
- Colander: For draining canned vegetables or rinsing fresh peas if using.
- Whisk: Ideal for combining the flour and butter smoothly and incorporating liquids to create a lump-free sauce.
- Serving dish or individual plates: Make sure to have warmed serving dishes ready to keep the Ham Ala King hot and inviting.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet / sauté pan | To cook ham and sauté vegetables evenly |
| Medium saucepan | To prepare creamy sauce separately if needed |
| Wooden spoon / spatula | To stir sauce and roux without damaging pans |
| Measuring cups & spoons | For accurate ingredient measurements |
| Cutting board & chef’s knife | For chopping ham and vegetables |
| Colander | To drain or rinse vegetables |
| Whisk | To blend roux and liquids smoothly |
| Serving dish / plates | To present and serve the finished dish |
Having these tools ready streamlines our cooking, allowing us to focus on creating that rich, velvety sauce and perfectly tender ham that make Ham Ala King so memorable. Let’s gather our equipment so we can move efficiently into the cooking process.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, proper Prep Work ensures our Ham Ala King turns out flawlessly rich and creamy. Let’s get everything ready step-by-step.
Preparing the Ham
First, we want about 2 cups of diced cooked ham. If using leftover ham, trim any excess fat for a cleaner taste. Cut the ham into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2-inch size to ensure even heating and perfect texture in the sauce.
Tip: Using ham with a bit of natural juice enhances the flavor, but avoid overly salty ham as it can overpower the dish.
Here’s a quick checklist for ham prep:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Select ham | Cooked, preferably smoked |
| Trim fat | Remove large fatty pieces |
| Dice size | 1/2-inch cubes |
| Quantity | 2 cups |
Chopping Vegetables
The vegetables bring vibrant color and sweetness to our Ham Ala King. We’ll need to prep the following:
- 1/4 cup diced onions — finely chopped for smooth cooking
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms — cleaned and sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup diced red pimentos — adds a bright pop of color
- 1/3 cup green peas — fresh or thawed frozen peas work best
For best results, chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking and to maintain the dish’s classic texture and visual appeal.
| Vegetable | Prep Instruction | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Onions | Finely diced | 1/4 cup |
| Mushrooms | Thinly sliced | 1/4 cup |
| Red Pimentos | Diced | 1/4 cup |
| Green Peas | Fresh or thawed frozen | 1/3 cup |
“Finely chopping the onions helps them integrate smoothly into the creamy sauce without overpowering the texture.”
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Ham Ala King with a rich, creamy sauce and tender ham paired with vibrant vegetables. Precision and timing ensure we achieve the classic comfort and flavor this dish is known for.
Making the Sauce
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until fully melted and foamy.
- Whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour steadily to form a smooth roux. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is bubbling but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Slowly add 1 ¾ cups of chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream. Maintain medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency, about 5 minutes.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed to balance the richness.
- Remove sauce from heat and set aside. It will continue to thicken slightly while we prepare the ham and vegetables.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Base for roux |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | Thickening agent |
| Chicken broth | 1 ¾ cups | Adds depth and flavor |
| Heavy cream | 1 ½ cups | Creaminess and richness |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Seasoning |
“The key to a perfect Ham Ala King sauce is achieving that smooth, thick texture without lumps, balancing creaminess with savory broth.“
Cooking the Ham and Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ½ cup of finely diced onions and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and aromatic.
- Incorporate 1 cup of thinly sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown slightly.
- Stir in 2 cups of diced cooked ham, ensuring the ham warms evenly, about 3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup of diced red pimentos and ½ cup of green peas. Mix gently and cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors without overcooking the peas.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the ham and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld flavors and heat thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
Assembly and Serving
Once we have prepared the sauce, sautéed the vegetables, and heated the ham, the next essential step is assembling the dish for serving. This final phase ensures all components blend harmoniously, delivering the creamy, flavorful Ham Ala King experience we expect.
Combining Ingredients
To assemble the Ham Ala King perfectly, follow these steps:
- Add the sautéed onions and mushrooms to the creamy sauce first. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to ensure the sauce coats the vegetables evenly.
- Mix in the diced ham and green peas, folding them into the sauce carefully so the ham remains tender and the peas add vibrant color and freshness.
- Maintain a low simmer for 3-5 minutes on medium-low heat. This allows the flavors to meld without breaking the sauce’s smooth consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The balance here is key to achieving that classic savory richness.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a minute. The sauce will thicken slightly, creating a velvety texture that clings beautifully to any accompaniment.
Serving Suggestions
Ham Ala King is wonderfully versatile, and we love serving it with a variety of bases to suit different preferences. Here are our favorite options:
| Serving Base | Description | Presentation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Toast | Crisp white or whole-wheat toast holds up well to the creamy sauce. | Serve on a warmed plate with the sauce spooned generously on top. |
| White Rice | Fluffy steamed rice absorbs the sauce perfectly. | Use a ring mold for plating neat, compact rice portions topped with Ham Ala King. |
| Pasta | Buttered egg noodles or macaroni adds a hearty touch. | Toss pasta lightly in butter before plating and spoon sauce over. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Smooth mashed potatoes create extra comfort in every bite. | Plate a scoop of mashed potatoes and ladle Ham Ala King over the top for a cozy meal. |
Pro Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few thinly sliced pimentos for a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast.
Serving Ham Ala King immediately while hot ensures the luscious sauce and tender ingredients shine at their best. If you need to hold the dish briefly, keep it warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the silky texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time and ensure a smooth cooking experience with our Ham Ala King Recipe, follow these essential make-ahead tips. Preparing components in advance allows the flavors to deepen and lets us focus on final assembly when ready to serve.
Prepare and Store the Sauce Ahead
- Make the creamy roux-based sauce early by melting unsalted butter and whisking in all-purpose flour until smooth.
- Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 48 hours or freeze in portions for up to 1 month.
- When ready to use, gently reheat over low heat, whisking to restore its velvety texture.
Dice and Sauté Vegetables in Advance
- Chop onions, mushrooms, pimentos, and prepare green peas uniformly as directed.
- Sauté onions and mushrooms in butter until translucent and tender.
- Cool and store them together in a sealed container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days; fresh sautéed veggies enhance the dish’s texture and flavor.
Pre-Cook and Store Ham
- Dice cooked ham into ½-inch cubes, trimming excess fat for a balanced flavor.
- Store diced ham in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze if storing longer.
Assemble Just Before Serving
- Combine warmed sauce, sautéed vegetables, and diced ham just before plating.
- Gently heat together over medium-low heat until everything is hot and sauce thickens slightly.
- Avoid assembling hours ahead to maintain crispness of vegetables and prevent sauce separation.
Make-Ahead Storage Summary
| Component | Storage Method | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creamy Sauce | Airtight container | 48 hours | 1 month |
| Sautéed Vegetables | Sealed container | 2 days | Not recommended |
| Diced Cooked Ham | Airtight container | 3 days | 1 month |
Pro Tip: Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness and maintain food safety.
By dividing steps and prepping ahead, our Ham Ala King comes together effortlessly, delivering the rich, comforting flavors we love without last-minute rushes.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Ham Ala King fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here’s how we store the dish and its components to maintain quality and safety:
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Cool the dish completely before storing to avoid condensation that can affect texture and promote spoilage.
- Transfer the Ham Ala King into an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent odor absorption from other foods.
- Store in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) for up to 3 to 4 days.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3 to 4 days | 40°F (4°C) or below | Airtight |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | 0°F (-18°C) or below | Freezer-safe, airtight |
Freezing Instructions
- To freeze Ham Ala King, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Leave about 1 inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating Tips
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
- Alternatively, microwave in intervals, stirring between each to heat evenly.
Storing Leftover Components
| Component | Refrigeration Duration | Freezing Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Diced Cooked Ham | 3 days | 1 month |
| Sautéed Vegetables | 1 to 2 days | Not recommended |
| Cream Sauce | 2 days | 1 month |
Keeping the components separate when possible helps extend freshness and allows quicker reheating without sacrificing taste or texture.
“For optimal freshness and quality, always store leftovers promptly in airtight containers and reheat with care.“
By following these Storage Instructions, we ensure our comforting Ham Ala King stays deliciously creamy and ready to enjoy whenever we want.
Conclusion
Ham Ala King is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Its creamy sauce and tender ham create a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize and serve in various ways. By following simple prep and cooking steps, we can enjoy this classic recipe with minimal effort.
With thoughtful make-ahead and storage tips, Ham Ala King fits perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing taste or quality. It’s a versatile favorite that transforms leftover ham into a delicious, hearty dish we’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ham Ala King?
Ham Ala King is a classic comfort dish featuring tender ham in a creamy, rich sauce combined with colorful vegetables. It’s typically served over toast, rice, or pasta and is known for its savory, nostalgic flavors.
What are the main ingredients in Ham Ala King?
Key ingredients include diced cooked ham, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, onions, mushrooms, green peas, and red pimentos. These come together to create a rich, creamy sauce with vegetables.
Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Yes, Ham Ala King is perfect for using leftover ham. Diced cooked ham adds a savory flavor without overpowering the dish and helps make a satisfying meal from leftovers.
How do you make the sauce for Ham Ala King?
The sauce is made by creating a roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisking in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth and velvety. Proper seasoning is important to enhance the flavors.
What equipment do I need to prepare Ham Ala King?
You’ll need a large skillet, medium saucepan, wooden spoon, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, colander, and serving dishes for smooth preparation.
Can Ham Ala King be prepared in advance?
Yes, the creamy sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 48 hours in the fridge or frozen for a month. Vegetables and ham can also be prepped ahead, allowing quick assembly before serving.
How should I store leftover Ham Ala King?
Store cooled Ham Ala King in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain sauce texture.
What are good serving options for Ham Ala King?
Ham Ala King pairs well with toast, white rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or red pimentos for added color and flavor.
How do I keep the vegetables fresh and crisp when making Ham Ala King?
Dice vegetables uniformly and sauté them ahead of time if desired. Assemble the dish just before serving to maintain their texture and the creamy consistency of the sauce.