Christmas is just around the corner, and we all know the star of the dinner table (besides Aunt Sally’s dramatic storytelling) is the ham.
Serving plain ham year after year gets as stale as last year’s fruitcake. Why not shake things up this holiday season?
I’ve rounded up 12 creative and delicious ways to serve ham that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). Let’s get the oven preheated, shall we?
1. Ham and Cheese Quiche
Who says ham is just for dinner? Start your Christmas morning with a hearty ham and cheese quiche. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Bonus points if you make it the night before—because no one wants to cook before their first coffee.
2. Split Pea Soup with Ham
This one’s a classic, but it deserves a spot on your holiday menu. Split pea soup with leftover ham is like a warm hug in a bowl.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to avoid wasting any ham from the main event. Pro tip: serve it with crusty bread to scoop up every last drop.
3. Green Eggs and Ham
Channel your inner Dr. Seuss with this playful twist. Scramble up some eggs with a touch of pesto for the “green” and pair them with thick slices of ham.
It’s simple, fun, and guaranteed to get a smile from even the grumpiest Grinch.
4. Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham
This isn’t your average glazed ham. The honey-mustard combo is sweet, tangy, and downright irresistible.
The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving your ham a golden, sticky coating that’s perfect for slicing up and serving.
5. Ham Casserole
If you’re all about comfort food, this one’s for you. Picture layers of diced ham, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness all baked to perfection.
This casserole works as a main dish or a side—just make sure to make extra because it disappears fast.
6. Ham and Cheese Sliders
Hosting a holiday party? These little sandwiches are your secret weapon. Hawaiian rolls stuffed with ham and melted cheese brushed with butter and baked to golden perfection.
They’re bite-sized but big on flavor.
7. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
This dish proves ham and potatoes are a match made in heaven. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with ham and smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce?
Yes, please. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doubles as the ultimate comfort food.
8. Pasta with Ham, Leeks, and Spinach
Feeling fancy? This pasta dish is equally elegant and easy to make. The ham adds a salty kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of leeks and the freshness of spinach.
It’s light yet satisfying—perfect for a Christmas Eve dinner.
9. Slow Cooker Ham
Sometimes, simplicity wins. Toss your ham in the slow cooker with some pineapple juice, brown sugar, and spices, and let it do its thing. The result?
A tender, juicy ham that practically falls apart. Plus, your oven stays free for all those Christmas cookies.
10. Make-Ahead Sandwich Rolls
If you’re hosting a casual Christmas lunch, these make-ahead sandwich rolls are a lifesaver.
Fill soft rolls with ham, cheese, and your favorite condiments, wrap them up and pop them in the fridge. They’re ready to go whenever you are.
11. Honey-glazed ham and Checkerboard Rolls
This one’s a showstopper. Serve your honey-glazed ham with buttery, golden checkerboard rolls. They’re as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
Trust me, your guests will be snapping pics before they even take a bite.
12. Elevated Baked Ham
Take your baked ham to the next level with a maple and bourbon glaze. It’s smoky, sweet, and just a little boozy—perfect for making your Christmas dinner feel extra special.
Garnish with some fresh herbs for a fancy finishing touch.
A Ham-tastic Holiday Awaits
There you have it—12 Christmas ham ideas that are anything but boring. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or keeping it low-key, there’s something here for everyone.
Now, grab your apron, crank up those holiday tunes, and let’s make this Christmas one for the books—with ham leading the way, of course.