Leftover ham and stuffing are holiday staples that often leave us wondering what to make next. Instead of letting them go to waste we can transform these ingredients into delicious new meals that save time and reduce food waste.
From hearty casseroles to savory soups and creative sandwiches these leftover ham and stuffing recipes bring fresh flavors to our table. They’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekend lunches when we want something satisfying without starting from scratch.
With just a few simple tweaks we can elevate our leftovers into crowd-pleasing dishes that everyone will love. Let’s explore some easy and tasty ideas that turn yesterday’s meal into today’s favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
To create delicious leftover ham and stuffing recipes, we first gather key ingredients. These staples form the foundation for our versatile meals, helping us transform leftovers into flavorful dishes that satisfy every time.
Ingredients for Leftover Ham
For the best flavor and texture in our leftover ham recipes, we use:
- Leftover cooked ham — diced or shredded, about 2 to 3 cups
- Ham bone or a small ham hock (optional) for soups or stews to add depth
- Low-sodium broth or stock (chicken or vegetable) if making moist casseroles or soups
- Smoked paprika or black pepper to enhance the ham’s smoky flavor
Ingredients for Stuffing
Our recipes call for classic leftover stuffing components that add warmth and texture:
- Leftover stuffing — approximately 2 to 4 cups, broken up for even cooking
- Onion — finely chopped, about 1/2 cup, to sauté and add aromatic flavor
- Celery — diced, 1/3 cup for crunch and freshness
- Fresh or dried herbs (sage, thyme, or parsley) — 1 to 2 teaspoons for herbal notes
- Butter or olive oil — 2 tablespoons to soften vegetables and meld flavors
Additional Ingredients for Recipes
We add versatile extras to enrich our leftover ham and stuffing dishes:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | Binder for casseroles and bakes | 2 to 3 |
| Shredded cheese | Adds creaminess and sharp flavor | 1 to 1 1/2 cups |
| Cream or milk | Prevents dryness in baked dishes | 1/2 cup |
| Vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) | Boost nutrition and texture | 1 cup |
| Mustard or Worcestershire sauce | Adds tang and umami | 1 to 2 teaspoons |
| Bread crumbs or crushed crackers | Topping for crispiness | 1/2 cup |
By combining these ingredients thoughtfully, we create diverse recipes that celebrate our leftover ham and stuffing while reducing food waste and saving kitchen time.
Equipment Needed
When working with leftover ham and stuffing recipes, having the right equipment simplifies our cooking process and ensures the best results. Here is a detailed breakdown of the essential tools we recommend keeping on hand:
- Oven-safe baking dish or casserole dish
Ideal for layering and baking casseroles, gratins, and baked sandwiches. A 9×13-inch dish works well for most recipes.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
Perfect for reheating ham, sautéing vegetables, or crisping stuffing before combining.
- Mixing bowls
Use medium to large bowls for combining ingredients such as eggs, cheese, and leftover stuffing.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precise measuring is key to balancing flavors and achieving the right textures.
- Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
Necessary for chopping leftover ham and vegetables into uniform pieces.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Ideal for stirring without scratching cookware surfaces.
- Whisk
Useful for quickly blending eggs or sauces that bind stuffing-based dishes.
- Soup pot or stockpot (optional)
Required if preparing soups using leftover ham and broth.
- Colander or strainer
Helpful when draining any excess liquid from stuffing or vegetables.
- Food storage containers
For storing any extra portions or prepping leftovers for future meals.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Oven-safe baking dish | Baking casseroles, layered dishes |
| Large skillet or sauté pan | Reheating and sautéing |
| Mixing bowls | Combining ingredients |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Accurate portioning |
| Chef’s knife and cutting board | Chopping leftover ham and vegetables |
| Wooden spoon or silicone spatula | Stirring and mixing without damage |
| Whisk | Blending eggs and sauces |
| Soup pot or stockpot | Preparing soups using ham broth |
| Colander or strainer | Draining liquids from stuffing or vegetables |
| Food storage containers | Storing leftovers and meal prep |
Pro Tip: Having an adjustable oven rack and a meat thermometer can be helpful when reheating ham to ensure it stays juicy and safe to eat.
By gathering these key tools, we set ourselves up for success in transforming leftover ham and stuffing into delicious meals with ease and confidence.
Recipe 1: Ham and Stuffing Casserole
Transform leftover ham and stuffing into a warm, satisfying Ham and Stuffing Casserole that is both comforting and easy to prepare. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ham with the herbaceous, moist stuffing for a perfect weeknight meal.
Prep
- 3 cups leftover stuffing, crumbled
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing baking dish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled stuffing, diced ham, sautéed onion and celery, shredded cheddar, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix well, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and chicken broth until fully blended. Slowly pour this mixture over the stuffing mixture while gently stirring to moisten the casserole base without making it soggy.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread out evenly and press lightly to compact the casserole.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to slice cleanly.
“This Ham and Stuffing Casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.“
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover stuffing | 3 cups | Crumbled |
| Cooked ham | 2 cups | Diced 1/2-inch pieces |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Onion | 1/2 cup | Diced |
| Celery | 1/2 cup | Diced |
| Large eggs | 2 | Lightly beaten |
| Chicken broth (low sodium) | 1 cup | – |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing and greasing |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | – |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | – |
| Salt | To taste | – |
This casserole comes together quickly and makes excellent use of leftover ham and stuffing, turning them into a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
Recipe 2: Ham and Stuffing Frittata
This quick and versatile Leftover Ham and Stuffing dish is perfect for transforming your holiday extras into a fluffy, savory frittata. It brings rich flavors and a satisfying texture, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner.
Prep
-
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups leftover stuffing, crumbled
- 1 cup diced leftover ham
- 6 large eggs, whisked
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced celery
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional: thyme or parsley) for garnish
-
Preparation Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Crumble the stuffing into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.
- Dice the ham evenly to blend with stuffing and eggs.
- Whisk the eggs and milk together until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Dice onions and celery finely to sauté for a softer texture in the frittata.
- Prepare an oven-safe skillet or baking dish for cooking.
Cook
- Heat olive oil or butter over medium heat in a large oven-safe skillet.
- Sauté the diced onion and celery for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the diced ham to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes to warm through and release flavors.
- Spread the crumbled stuffing evenly over the ham and veggies.
- Pour the whisked egg and milk mixture over the stuffing and ham layer, gently shaking the skillet to settle the eggs evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top for a rich melted finish.
- Cook on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes until the edges start to set but the center remains slightly runny.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the frittata is fully set in the center and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, slice, and serve warm.
| Step | Description | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sauté veggies | Onion and celery softening | 3-4 minutes | Medium heat |
| Warm ham | Heat ham through | 2 minutes | Medium heat |
| Pre-bake stovetop | Cook edges and start egg set | 3-4 minutes | Medium heat |
| Oven cooking | Bake frittata until set | 12-15 minutes | 375°F (190°C) |
This Ham and Stuffing Frittata is a delightful way to enjoy leftovers with minimal fuss and maximal flavor.
Recipe 3: Ham and Stuffing Stuffed Peppers
Transform leftover ham and stuffing into a colorful and satisfying meal with these Ham and Stuffing Stuffed Peppers. This recipe offers a flavorful twist that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend lunch.
Prep
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed
- 2 cups leftover stuffing, crumbled
- 1 ½ cups diced leftover ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup chicken broth (to moisten stuffing if needed)
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled stuffing, sautéed vegetables, diced ham, thyme, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. If the mixture feels dry, stir in ¼ cup chicken broth for added moisture.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the ham and stuffing mixture. Place them upright in an oven-safe baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the filling to set.
Recipe 4: Ham and Stuffing Soup
Transform your leftover ham and stuffing into a hearty, comforting Ham and Stuffing Soup. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ham with the cozy texture of stuffing, making it a perfect meal to warm us on chilly days.
Prep
To get started with our Ham and Stuffing Soup, we’ll need to prepare the ingredients carefully:
- 2 cups diced leftover ham
- 2 cups crumbled leftover stuffing
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
We will also use these essential kitchen tools:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or Dutch oven | To cook ingredients and simmer soup |
| Wooden spoon | For stirring |
| Ladle | For serving |
| Chef’s knife | For chopping vegetables and ham |
| Measuring cups & spoons | For precise ingredient amounts |
Cook
- Sauté the vegetables: In the large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced celery, and minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and fragrant.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour. This step will thicken our soup and give it a silky texture.
- Add liquids and ham: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, then add the milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate leftovers: Stir in diced ham, crumbled stuffing, and frozen mixed vegetables. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as needed. Ladle the rich, savory soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
This Ham and Stuffing Soup not only revitalizes our leftovers but also delivers a warm, satisfying bowl full of texture and savory depth. Perfect for cozy nights, it’s a smart and delicious way to reduce food waste while enjoying classic holiday flavors anew.
Make-Ahead Tips
Successfully preparing leftover ham and stuffing recipes ahead of time ensures maximum flavor and convenience without compromising quality. Here are our top tips to help you plan and execute these meals flawlessly.
Storage and Timing
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and safety.
- Store leftover ham and stuffing separately in airtight containers to control moisture and texture.
- Both ham and stuffing keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in labeled containers for up to 3 months.
| Item | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Leftover Ham | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
| Stuffing | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
Prep Ingredients in Advance
- Dice or shred ham ahead for easy incorporation in recipes like casseroles or soups.
- Crumble stuffing and store it loosely to maintain texture when reheated.
- Chop vegetables such as onions and celery before cooking to reduce meal prep time.
- Pre-measure spices and shredded cheese in small containers or bags for quick assembly.
“Prepping ingredients in advance helps us streamline cooking and makes the final dishes come together effortlessly.”
Assembly and Cooking Tips
- For make-ahead casseroles and stuffed peppers, assemble all ingredients in the baking dish and cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate assembled dishes overnight; remove from fridge 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- When reheating pre-cooked ham and stuffing dishes, use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Freezing and Thawing Advice
- Freeze assembled meals in oven-safe, freezer-friendly containers to minimize dish transfers.
- Thaw frozen meals in the refrigerator for 24 hours before reheating; avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- For quicker thawing, use the defrost setting on your microwave but finish cooking immediately after.
Flavor Enhancement for Make-Ahead Dishes
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving to brighten flavors.
- Incorporate a dollop of mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate leftover ham and stuffing recipes.
- Grate additional cheese on top before baking for a melty golden crust.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips we ensure our leftover ham and stuffing creations are flavorful, safe, and ready whenever hunger strikes.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of our leftover ham and stuffing recipes, we can enhance each dish with thoughtful serving ideas that elevate flavors and presentation. Here are some well-tested ways to serve these dishes for any occasion:
Accompaniments to Complement Flavors
Pair your ham and stuffing creations with side dishes that balance richness and add freshness:
- Crisp Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The acidity cuts through the savory richness of ham and stuffing.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Serve warm roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added texture and color.
- Cranberry Sauce or Chutney: The tart sweetness provides an ideal contrast to the salty ham and savory stuffing.
Garnishes and Fresh Additions
Finishing touches make a big difference. We recommend:
- A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and herbal brightness.
- A light drizzle of hot honey or Dijon mustard on the side to add subtle heat and tang.
- A generous dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside ham and stuffing frittatas or casseroles to add creaminess and cool the palate.
Beverage Pairings
Offering well-chosen drinks enhances the overall experience. Here’s what works best:
| Dish Type | Recommended Beverage |
|---|---|
| Ham and Stuffing Casserole | Light-bodied white wine like Chardonnay |
| Ham and Stuffing Soup | Robust Ale or Crisp Apple Cider |
| Ham and Stuffing Stuffed Peppers | Sparkling water with lemon or dry rosé |
| Ham and Stuffing Frittata | Freshly brewed black coffee or herbal tea |
Serving Temperature Tips
- Serve casseroles and stuffed peppers hot fresh out of the oven to enjoy melty cheese and tender vegetables.
- The ham and stuffing soup is best served steaming warm for comforting richness.
- For frittatas, serve immediately or at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
Plating Ideas to Impress
- Present ham and stuffing stuffed peppers standing upright on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of herbs for a colorful and inviting display.
- Slice the frittata into wedges, placing each on a warm plate with a side salad drizzled with dressing.
- Ladle soup into deep bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and fresh cracked pepper.
By combining these thoughtful serving suggestions with our versatile leftover ham and stuffing recipes, we create meals that are both visually appealing and perfectly balanced in taste. These details help transform leftover favorites into memorable dining experiences.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Ham and Stuffing Dishes
Proper storing and reheating of leftover ham and stuffing dishes are essential to maintain freshness, flavor, and food safety. Let’s walk through the best practices to keep our leftovers delicious and ready for quick meals.
Storing Leftover Ham and Stuffing
- Cool leftovers promptly. Allow ham and stuffing to cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use airtight containers. Store ham and stuffing separately in clean airtight containers to preserve texture and avoid flavor mixing.
- Label and date. Mark containers with the date stored to track freshness and avoid spoilage.
- Refrigeration timeframe: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days for optimal quality.
- Freezing for longer storage: If you plan to keep leftovers beyond a few days, freeze them. Properly wrapped leftovers can keep for up to 2 months without losing much flavor.
| Storage Method | Max Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3 to 4 days | Use airtight containers, refrigerate promptly |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags, label date |
Reheating Techniques for Best Results
To retain moisture, flavor, and safety, reheat leftover ham and stuffing carefully following these methods:
Oven Reheating (Recommended for Casseroles, Stuffed Peppers, and Larger Dishes)
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil to prevent drying.
- Heat for 20 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For crisp texture on stuffing, remove foil in the last 5 minutes.
Stove-Top Reheating (Ideal for Soups and Smaller Portions)
- Transfer leftovers to a skillet or saucepan.
- Add a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.
- Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently.
- Warm until steaming hot throughout and reaches 165°F (74°C).
Microwave Reheating (Quickest Method)
- Place servings on a microwave-safe plate or bowl.
- Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel.
- Heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes for small portions.
- Stir or turn halfway through heating to avoid cold spots.
- Ensure internal temperature is 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Tips to Maintain Quality and Safety
- Always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer before serving to ensure food safety.
- When reheating ham and stuffing together, confirm stuffing is thoroughly hot to avoid cold centers.
- Avoid reheating leftovers multiple times to prevent dryness and bacterial risk; reheat only the portion you plan to eat.
- Add a little moisture like a light splash of chicken broth during reheating to restore juiciness.
- Reheat leftovers in small batches for more even warming.
“Proper storage and reheating not only safeguard flavor but keep our leftover ham and stuffing safe and tasty to enjoy again.”
By following these storage and reheating tips, we keep our leftover ham and stuffing dishes flavorful and ready to delight.
Conclusion
Transforming leftover ham and stuffing into new meals is a smart way to enjoy delicious flavors without extra effort. By using simple ingredients and the right kitchen tools, we can create satisfying dishes that save time and reduce waste. With a little creativity and proper storage, these leftovers become the foundation for quick, flavorful meals anytime. Let’s keep making the most of every bite while enjoying tasty, comforting food together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I creatively use leftover ham and stuffing?
You can transform leftover ham and stuffing into casseroles, soups, sandwiches, frittatas, or stuffed peppers. Adding eggs, cheese, and vegetables enhances flavor and texture, making quick, delicious meals while reducing food waste.
What key ingredients are needed for leftover ham and stuffing recipes?
Essential ingredients include diced or shredded ham, classic stuffing components like onion and celery, low-sodium broth, eggs, shredded cheese, and fresh vegetables to complement and enrich the dishes.
What kitchen tools are recommended for cooking with leftover ham and stuffing?
Helpful tools include an oven-safe baking dish, large skillet, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp chef’s knife, whisk, meat thermometer, and adjustable oven rack for safe and easy meal preparation.
How should I store leftover ham and stuffing?
Cool leftovers promptly, place them in airtight containers, label with date, and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze properly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
What is the best way to reheat leftover ham and stuffing?
Use the oven, stove-top, or microwave for reheating. To retain moisture and ensure safety, reheat evenly until hot throughout, and cover dishes to prevent drying out.
Are there make-ahead tips for cooking with ham and stuffing leftovers?
Yes. Prepare dishes in advance, store them properly in airtight containers, and refrigerate. This boosts flavor and saves time when ready to reheat and serve.
How can I serve leftover ham and stuffing to impress guests?
Pair dishes with complementary side salads, steamed vegetables, or fresh bread. Add garnishes and serve with suitable beverages to enhance presentation and dining experience.