The Best Way To Use Leftover Ham Is Simply Genius

One of the best parts of a big holiday feast is all the leftovers you get to enjoy for days after the event. They make for quick, tasty meals that keep the memories of the festivities fresh in your mind, but it can sometimes be challenging to find a way to make them shine. There are plenty of ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey that never disappoint, but what about that juicy ham?

We asked Tim Ziga, Culinary Expert at the Honey Baked Ham Company, what he thought was the best way to use up leftover ham/ He said, "My personal favorite though, following a holiday celebration, is a grilled ham and cheese or sliders." It only takes a few minutes to prepare, and if you pair it with a wine that goes best with ham, like a Pinot Noir, it will feel as if you are experiencing the holidays all over again.

Still, as satisfying as a simple slider may be, it can nevertheless be elevated. "Add your choice of cheese, a condiment or two," said Ziga, "and brush on a little butter and seasoning before toasting them in the oven — it's easy and delicious!" Adding just a little seasoning — even simple crack or two of fresh black pepper – to a ham and cheese or succulent slider will take it to the next level. However, if you are avoiding carbs for any reason, there is another way to use leftover ham that can be equally enticing.

Many claim breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and if you want to start your morning with a little bit of red meat (indeed, ham is widely considered to be red meat), Ziga had another genius suggestion that will make your leftover ham taste like new. "I will add that one of my favorite ways to cook leftover ham is to throw it in a pan with a little bit of butter and fry it up. It's great for breakfast with some eggs and toast," he said. You could also add the ham to an omelet for a dish that would rival that of your favorite breakfast haunt. 

Frying up leftover ham in fatty butter creates an extra savory piece of meat, but that isn't all this technique does. As Ziga explained, "The ham crisps up on the edges and the flavor really pops. It's a completely different eating experience." With all the best chewy, chocolatey sweets we tend to enjoy during the holidays (box of Ferrero Roche, anyone?), something salty, savory, and crispy can be a welcome break from all the sugar.