quick ham recipes

Name: Quick Ham Recipes
Ingredients: Ingredients:; 8 ounces spaghetti; 1 1/2 cups diced ham; 1 cup peas; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: additional herbs or spices for flavor

Daria January 18, 2025January 21, 2025

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Quick Ham Recipes

You might not realize that ham can be more than just a holiday centerpiece; it’s a versatile ingredient perfect for quick weeknight meals. Utilizing leftover ham can save you both time and money while infusing your dishes with a delicious, smoky flavor. Imagine whipping up a comforting ham tetrazzini or a hearty sandwich in under 30 minutes. If you’re curious about how to make the most of this often-overlooked protein, you’ll want to explore some easy recipes that can elevate your dinner routine without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you discover how versatile ham can be, you’ll find it an essential ingredient in your kitchen.

You can use ham in various dishes, from breakfast to dinner, making it a go-to option for every meal. Many ham recipes are quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast. Plus, if you have leftovers, you can easily repurpose them into new dishes, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Ham adds a rich, smoky flavor that enhances any meal, making it more enjoyable. It’s also widely available in grocery stores, meaning you won’t have trouble finding it. With recipes like baked ham and penne pasta or ham and cheese sliders, you’ll love how easy and delicious cooking with ham can be. Additionally, you’ll find over 55 unique recipes that showcase the versatility of leftover ham.

History

Ham has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations, where salting and smoking pork legs became essential preservation techniques.

In ancient Rome, people regularly salted pork legs, exposing them to smoke, as noted by writers like Varro and Columella. The Gauls also mastered these methods, earning a reputation for their ham production. Jinhua, China has over 1,000 years of ham curing tradition, showcasing the global significance of this culinary practice.

Greeks and Romans enjoyed salted meats, including ham and pork fatback. Historical recipes, like those in De Re Coquinaria, show how ham has been wrapped in crusts with figs and honey.

The invention of spiral slicing by Harry J. Hoenselaar revolutionized serving ham, making it easier to slice.

Ham’s cultural significance ties into major holidays and traditions, showcasing its longstanding role in culinary history.

Recipe

Recipe: Ham Tetrazzini

Ham Tetrazzini is a delightful and comforting dish that showcases the savory flavors of ham mixed with pasta and cheese. This quick recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The bone-in ham used for the initial meal can provide excellent flavor for this dish as well.

The combination of spaghetti, diced ham, peas, and a blend of cheeses creates a creamy, satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 22 minutes.

This dish isn’t only easy to make, but it also allows for some creative flexibility. Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you want to add more veggies or use a different type of cheese, Ham Tetrazzini can easily be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

8 ounces spaghetti
1 1/2 cups diced ham
1 cup peas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: additional herbs or spices for flavor

Cooking Instructions:

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, diced ham, peas, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

For extra tips, consider adding a splash of cream or a drizzle of olive oil to the mixture before baking to enhance the creaminess.

You can also incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your Ham Tetrazzini!

Final Thoughts

In the kitchen, a well-cooked ham can transform any meal into a festive occasion.

To guarantee your ham shines, always choose high-quality meat, like bone-in whole or half hams, which offer the best flavor and moisture. Avoid frozen or pre-sliced options, as they tend to be dry. Dakin Farm hams are highly recommended for flavor and moisture retention.

During cooking, use moist heat initially, then finish with high heat to caramelize the surface. Remember to rest the ham before slicing to lock in juices.

For added taste, a brown sugar glaze can enhance flavor without the need for scoring or cloves.

Finally, don’t forget about leftovers; they can be turned into delicious casseroles, sandwiches, or soups, making your culinary efforts go further.

Enjoy your ham!

FAQ

Got questions about cooking ham? First, choose the right type—opt for a bone-in whole or half ham for the best flavor. Remember to estimate about 1/4 lb per person for a buffet, or 1/2 lb for dinner. Always thaw the ham completely before cooking.

When preparing, score the surface with shallow cuts to enhance flavor, and use a glaze made from pineapple juice and brown sugar for sweetness. Additionally, using foil during baking helps to retain moisture and juiciness in the ham.

Cook the ham fat-side up in a covered roasting pan at 325°F or 350°F, basting regularly. In the last 30 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 425°F to caramelize the glaze.

Finally, let it rest for 20 minutes before carving to keep it juicy and flavorful.