In today’s fast-paced world, where everyone is always on-the-go, quick, simple, and delicious meal solutions are a must-have. To meet this demand, many home cooks turn to convenient ingredients like canned ham, which offers a cost-effective and versatile alternative to traditional meats.
Canned ham, also known as cured boneless ham, is a popular choice for its ease of use, affordability, and impressive nutritional profile.
Typically sourced from the leg or butt section of a pig, this preserved meat product can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic breakfast combinations to innovative dinner ideas.
One of the biggest advantages of canned ham is its practicality. Not only does it require minimal preparation time, but it’s also incredibly shelf-stable, making it an ideal pantry staple for most households.
Unopened and unblemished, canned ham can be stored at room temperature without refrigeration, while opened leftovers should be kept chilled to ensure food safety.
For those seeking inspiration for their next meal, we’ve curated a diverse collection of canned ham recipes that are sure to impress. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying snacks and more, these easy-to-make dishes showcase the incredible versatility of this beloved ingredient.
Top 5 Recipe Picks
Looking for the best canned ham recipes without having to sift through the entire list? We’ve got you covered! After reviewing our top 25 recipes, we’re excited to share our top 5 must-try picks. These fan favorites are sure to elevate your next gathering or special occasion. Start by serving #12 Ham Salad alongside those ubiquitous dips for a pop of flavor and color. Next, impress with the crispy exterior and tangy interior of #3 Canned Ham Bites.
Prepare ahead of time with #20 Honey Ham & Cheese Quiche, which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For a comforting, cheesy twist, try #21 Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Pot Pie. And finally, don’t overlook the show-stopping flavor and aroma of #22 Potato & Ham Bake – it’s truly one-of-a-kind.
Tips for Getting Canned Ham Out of the Can
To effortlessly retrieve canned ham from its container, follow these steps:Initially, remove any exterior labeling or wrapping before proceeding. Next, clean the can’s surface by wiping it with a cloth or paper towel to ensure a smooth opening experience. Select a reliable can opener that can efficiently pierce the lid. Position the opener correctly and start turning it slowly, applying gentle pressure until the vacuum seal is broken.
To encourage the ham to slide out effortlessly, hold the can inverted over a serving plate and give it a light tap on the bottom. If the ham doesn’t immediately release, gently shake or tap the can a few times to loosen it further. In cases where the ham remains stubbornly stuck, carefully insert a knife between the ham and the can’s side to release any remaining vacuum seal. Alternatively, use a spoon or silicone spatula to nudge the ham out from the bottom or sides if it only partially emerges.
Finally, once the ham is freed, use a sharp knife to slice it into desired portions while maintaining a steady hand to avoid accidental cuts.
Canned Ham Recipes
Ham & Ranch Salad
When you’re in the mood for a satisfying snack or a delicious appetizer, this salad recipe is sure to hit the spot. The addition of diced canned ham elevates the dish’s flavor profile and texture, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. With its meaty taste and satisfying crunch, this salad is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as part of a larger gathering. The key ingredients that make this recipe shine include diced ham, cheddar cheese, mayo, ranch mix, and sweet relish.
These elements combine to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Baked Canned Ham
Indulge in the rich flavors of this iconic dish, where golden hues and sweet notes harmonize in perfect culinary synchrony. This show-stopping recipe takes a humble canned ham to new heights, transforming it into an unforgettable centerpiece for your next special occasion. Whether you’re seeking a impressive dinner solution or simply wanting to elevate a classic, this tried-and-true formula delivers.
The trifecta of ingredients – tender canned ham, tangy yellow mustard, and luscious brown sugar – combine in a sublime dance that will leave your guests craving more.
Canned Ham Bites
Transforming humble ingredients into mouthwatering bites, these Canned Ham Bites combine the savory essence of canned ham with tangy pickles, all wrapped in a rich cream cheese layer. A game-changing twist comes from crunching up saltine crackers and potato chips to create an addictive coating that elevates this snack to new heights.
For those eager to recreate this delightful treat at home, a mere handful of ingredients is required: a blend of all-purpose flour, a fresh egg, buttermilk for added depth, and of course, the star attractions – cream cheese, canned ham, and crunchy crackers.
Ham & Noodle Casserole
Indulge in the delightful combination of crispy fried onions and savory flavors in this Canned Ham Casserole. A crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time, making it an ideal solution for a busy weeknight dinner. The medley of ingredients – pasta, ham, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and, of course, the crunchy fried onions – come together to create a satisfying meal your family will adore.
Canned Ham Tomato-Mushroom Casserole
For those in search of a satisfying yet budget-friendly dinner option, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Not only does it provide a simple cooking process, but it also delivers a rich and creamy flavor profile with subtle notes of fresh basil and a touch of heat. Best of all, it won’t break the bank. The essential ingredients include canned ham, pasta, American cheese, flour, and milk.
Grilled Bourbon Ham
When it comes to outdoor BBQ parties, it’s essential to have a dish that will impress your family and friends. This classic charcoal grilled ham recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines sweet and savory flavors. The bourbon, honey, brown sugar, and molasses infuse the ham with a depth of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. To make this delicious dish, you’ll need just a few ingredients: canned ham, brown sugar, molasses, honey, and pineapple slices.
The combination of these flavors creates a unique taste experience that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.
Ham Ball
This delectable Ham Ball recipe stands out for its streamlined preparation process. In just 10 minutes, you can gather the necessary ingredients and let your culinary masterpiece chill for a leisurely two hours to allow the flavors to meld together harmoniously. The result is a scrumptious ham ball that’s perfectly suited for serving with crackers or as a snack on its own.
The key to this recipe’s success lies in its thoughtful blend of ingredients, including canned ham, cream cheese, sour cream, crunchy pecans, and the savory essence of onion soup mix.
Ham, Green Beans & Potatoes
Looking for creative ways to repurpose leftover canned ham? You’re in luck! This comforting recipe is a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients, including diced ham, onion, potatoes, green beans, and a pinch of black pepper, you can whip up a delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Deviled Ham
This classic Deviled Ham recipe strikes the perfect balance of tangy flavors, creamy textures, and savory seasonings. It’s an incredibly versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways – simply spread it on sandwiches for a satisfying snack, serve it as a dip with crackers or chips, or pair it with crudités for a light and refreshing appetizer.
At its core, the recipe relies on just six key ingredients: diced ham, creamy mayonnaise, spicy hot sauce, tangy Dijon mustard, and a splash of vinegar – all working together in harmony to create a truly exceptional flavor profile.
Ham Salad Sandwich
In search of a swift solution for lunch or a snack, look no further than this effortless ham salad sandwich recipe. Its simplicity belies its impressive impact on taste buds, leaving them thoroughly satisfied.
Tips for Slicing & Serving Canned Ham
When preparing canned ham for serving, consider these key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience: First, refrigerate the ham until it’s well-chilled, as this allows for easier slicing and helps maintain its shape. Next, select a suitable knife – a sharp, serrated blade or carving knife works best. Before slicing, gently pat the ham dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and any unwanted ‘goo.
‘ You’ll also want to decide on the desired thickness of your slices, depending on personal preference. To achieve tender and even results, always slice against the grain, following the lines in the ham. Apply gentle pressure and use a steady motion to avoid tearing or creating uneven slices. Feel free to experiment with different slicing angles to find the look that suits you best.
Finally, serve the canned ham at any temperature – whether chilled, at room temperature, or warmed up, it’s entirely up to your taste.
Ham ‘n Swiss Biscuits
The star of this Ham ‘n Swiss Biscuits recipe is the harmonious union of flaky, buttery biscuits, salty, smoky ham, and creamy, tangy Swiss cheese. This unlikely combination creates a truly unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other recipes and makes it an excellent choice for both brunch and quick dinner options.
The key to this recipe’s success lies in its carefully selected ingredients, including canned ham, poppy seeds, margarine, biscuits, and of course, Swiss cheese.
Together, these components come together to create a deliciously balanced flavor experience that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ham Salad
This culinary delight is surprisingly simple to prepare, relying on a mere handful of everyday staples. For optimal flavor, we recommend chilling the dish for at least 30 minutes prior to serving, allowing the ingredients to meld together in harmony. The resulting fusion of flavors will be nothing short of delightful. To achieve this masterpiece, you’ll need just a few basic components: ham, celery, mayonnaise, dill pickle, and dijon mustard.
Canned Ham With Pineapple & Cherries
To elevate the flavors of this Canned Ham With Pineapple & Cherries recipe, a rich and velvety glaze is crafted by blending brown sugar and honey. This sweet and sticky mixture not only adds depth to the dish but also creates a crispy, golden-brown crust as it caramelizes during baking. The combination of these two ingredients perfectly complements the savory notes of the canned ham, while the cherries and orange juice add natural sweetness.
In addition to these key components, the recipe also calls for flour and sugar, which provide structure and balance to the dish.
Three-Ingredient Ham Cheese Ball
Satisfying snack cravings with ease, this Three-Ingredient Ham Cheese Ball is a delightful treat that effortlessly pleases even the most discerning palates. Its creamy foundation and savory ham flavor create a harmonious balance that will leave you wondering how something so simple can be so incredibly effective. With just cream cheese, ham, onions, and crackers as its building blocks, this recipe is a masterclass in understated excellence.
Old-Fashioned Baked Ham
The magic behind this Old-Fashioned Baked Ham recipe is the unique combination of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly show-stopping dish. At its core is the sweet and tangy union of ground mustard and cider vinegar, which provides a rich and complex foundation for the other ingredients. But it’s not just about the flavors – the addition of bright and juicy pineapple slices and sweet maraschino cherries adds a pop of color and a festive touch to the dish.
And let’s not forget the star of the show: the savory canned ham, which provides a satisfying base note that ties everything together. With these five simple ingredients – pineapple, canned ham, sugar, ground mustard, and cider vinegar – you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable Old-Fashioned Baked Ham.
Cheap Ham
The star of this economical ham recipe is the creative incorporation of beer, which elevates the dish to new heights of flavor. Not only will you savor a mouthwatering meal, but you’ll also do so without breaking the bank. The combination of simple yet effective ingredients – including ham, pineapple juice, sugar, beer, and cloves – results in a culinary delight that’s both satisfying and affordable.
Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Ham
The star of this show is a rich, caramelized ham, effortlessly cooked to perfection within the confines of a slow cooker. As the sweet and savory brown sugar glaze infuses into the meat, the result is a tender, fall-apart masterpiece that will leave you craving more. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list: a classic combination of ham, sugar, butter, and cloves, which work harmoniously together to create a culinary delight.
Air Fryer Canned Ham
Elevate your ordinary canned ham into a mouthwatering masterpiece by harnessing the transformative power of an air fryer. This kitchen wizardry not only crisps up the outside to a golden brown perfection but also preserves the tender juiciness within, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
To unlock this gastronomic magic, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients: your trusty canned ham, a touch of sugar, honey’s rich warmth, pineapple juice’s tanginess, and a pinch of mustard’s pungency.
Baked Ham With Pineapple
This beloved dish is perfect for any celebration or everyday meal. The combination of sweet and savory flavors comes from baking canned ham with pineapple rings and brown sugar, resulting in a delightful harmony that will leave everyone wanting more. To make this delectable recipe, you’ll need just a few ingredients: canned ham, pineapple rings, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
Honey Ham & Cheese Quiche
Despite its potential to sound complex, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Its versatility also allows it to be served at any meal of the day – whether you’re in the mood for a morning breakfast, an afternoon lunch, or an evening dinner. And let’s not forget the best part: it’s incredibly delicious. The simplicity of the recipe lies in its humble ingredients: ham, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, and sour cream.
With these basic components, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.
Cheesy Ham & Broccoli Pot Pie
Satisfy your family’s cravings with a deliciously easy-to-make cheesy ham and broccoli pot pie. This comforting dish is a cinch to prepare, requiring just a few straightforward ingredients.
At the core of this recipe are some humble heroes: olive oil, butter, carrots, celery, and rosemary. These everyday staples combine to create a flavor profile that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Potato & Ham Bake
Bring the comfort of a hearty dish to your table with this delectable recipe that harmoniously combines tender ham with perfectly cooked potatoes. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight meal, a leisurely weekend brunch, or a show-stopping holiday feast, this versatile recipe has got you covered. With an all-star cast of ingredients including oat drink, potatoes, beans, ham, and flour, you’ll be whipping up a culinary masterpiece in no time.
Smothered Cabbage With Ham
While simplicity can often be overlooked in favor of complexity, this one-pot dish proves that comforting flavors can truly shine. The harmonious blend of cabbage, potatoes, and ham creates a satisfying dinner table experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And at its core are just five essential ingredients: tender slices of ham, creamy avocado, crisp cabbage, comforting potatoes, and a tangy splash of cider vinegar.
Hickory Smoked Ham
Ditch the ordinary honey-glazed ham for a bold and tantalizing Hickory Smoked Ham recipe that marries the rustic charm of hickory-smoked bone-in ham with an innovative spice blend. The harmonious balance of flavors is achieved through a carefully crafted rub featuring pungent dry mustard, zesty lime rind, and crunchy pecans – all complementing the rich taste of the ham itself.
Ham & Potato Mash
Indulge in the comfort of a classic breakfast or brunch with our Ham & Potato Hash recipe, where simplicity meets speed. Within half an hour, you can have this delightful dish on your table, thanks to its straightforward preparation method. The magic happens when the harmonious mix of ham, bell pepper, onion, potatoes, and red pepper flakes are cooked together in a skillet until they reach a tender and crispy perfection.
The bottom line
When it comes to using canned ham, people often think it’s limited to just a few basic recipes. However, with a little creativity, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique snack, there are countless ways to incorporate canned ham into your meals. So why settle for boring when you can have exciting?
Next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to grab a can of ham and start experimenting – you never know what culinary masterpieces you might come up with!
