When it comes to cooking with leftovers, there’s no one better than Barefoot Contessa’s Ina Garten. With her signature elegance and effortless style, she has a knack for transforming yesterday’s ham into today’s delicious meal. Whether you’re looking to create a satisfying breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a hearty dinner, Ina’s leftover ham recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering Barefoot Contessa leftover ham recipes that are perfect for using up that glazed ham you brought home from Easter dinner. From quiches and soups to casseroles and strata, these creative recipes will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers and enjoy a new meal every time.
Ham and Cheese Quiche with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your brunch game with this savory quiche filled with ham, cheese, and a burst of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the ham, cheese, parsley, and dill evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the richness of ham and potatoes with a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on stuffed shells, featuring the savory combination of ham and spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine diced ham, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ham-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Ham and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole
A creative way to use leftover ham and cheese, this casserole is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick breakfast solution. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 bread slices (white or whole wheat)
– Butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and thyme.
3. Add the diced ham and shredded cheese; stir until well combined.
4. Arrange bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the ham-egg mixture over the bread.
6. Dot with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Asparagus Pasta Bake
A classic comfort food dish that combines the savory flavor of ham with the tender crunch of asparagus, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus and garlic in a little oil until tender. Add diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and grated cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Broccoli Cheese Strata
This strata is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring crispy ham, tender broccoli, and melted cheese. It’s an easy-to-make breakfast or brunch option that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes.
3. Top with ham, broccoli, and cheese.
4. Pour milk over the top, followed by eggs.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of bread on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and mushrooms with a creamy Arborio rice base, perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 slices ham steak, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add garlic, ham, and Arborio rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Warm chicken broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, until rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until liquid has been fully absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory flavors of ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with brown sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook diced ham over medium-high heat until crispy.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with cooked ham mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Pea Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This recipe combines the savory goodness of ham and peas with the comforting warmth of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1/4 cup diced ham
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon 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 diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked ham and peas; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the peas are tender.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Gruyère Croissant Bake
Moist, buttery croissants filled with salty ham and melted Gruyère cheese – what’s not to love? This easy recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a lazy Sunday brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked ham
– 1 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Place the ham slices evenly spaced apart, leaving a small border around each slice.
4. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the ham, then fold the pastry edges up and press gently to seal.
5. Brush the tops with melted butter and beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Caramelized Onion Pizza
A classic combination gets a flavorful boost with the sweetness of caramelized onions and savory ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Spread caramelized onion mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with diced ham and mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Corn Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Ham and Corn Chowder! This hearty recipe combines savory ham, tender corn, and creamy potatoes for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb diced cooked ham
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, corn kernels, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of savory ham and nutritious lentils, simmered together with aromatic spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the lentils, ham, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the sweet and savory combination of ham and apples. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced ham
– 1/2 apple, peeled and sliced into thin wedges
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, apple slices, and shredded cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Ham and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make twist on the classic combination of ham and cabbage. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and soy sauce to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Ham and Green Bean Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the savory flavors of ham, green beans, and creamy sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (10.5 oz) package frozen green beans
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 6 slices white bread, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Thaw green beans and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, combine ham, onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the bread mixture in the bottom. Top with green beans, then ham mixture.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions over the top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of ham and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together ham, cheese, and breadcrumbs.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the ham mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweet and nutty taste of butternut squash, making it a perfect blend for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cubed butternut squash, cooked ham, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover ham with these 18 delicious recipes from Barefoot Contessa! From savory quiches and soups to comforting casseroles and pasta bakes, there’s something for everyone. Try Ham and Cheese Quiche with Fresh Herbs or Creamy Ham and Potato Soup for a satisfying meal. Or, get inspired by sweet treats like Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich or Ham and Gruyère Croissant Bake. Whether you’re looking to repurpose last night’s dinner or impress guests, these recipes are sure to delight.
