As the holiday season winds down and the new year begins, many of us are left with a bounty of leftover ham bones. But instead of letting them go to waste, why not get creative with some delicious and hearty recipes that make the most of these tasty treasures? From comforting soups and stews to savory casseroles and risottos, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering ideas to inspire you to turn those leftover ham bones into a cozy night in. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate, our recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup with Beans
This hearty soup is a perfect way to repurpose leftover ham bones and make a deliciously comforting meal. With the added goodness of beans, this recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (with some meat still attached)
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the ham bone in a slow cooker.
2. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and onion on top of the ham bone.
3. Sprinkle with thyme and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the ham bone from the pot and shred any remaining meat into bite-sized pieces.
6. Return the shredded meat to the soup and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Creamy Ham and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb diced ham, boneless
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and salt to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Ham Bone Split Pea Soup
Smoky Ham Bone Split Pea Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This Smoky Ham Bone Split Pea Soup recipe is a delicious way to repurpose leftover ham bones and split peas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups split peas
– 1 smoky ham bone (about 2 pounds)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the ham bone on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine the roasted ham bone, split peas, chicken broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
5. Remove the ham bone and let it cool. Strain the soup and discard any solids.
6. Return the broth to a boil and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ham Bone and Lentil Stew
This stew is a perfect example of using leftovers to create a delicious and nutritious meal. With the rich flavor of ham bone and the comforting warmth of lentils, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (from a cooked ham)
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the ham bone, lentils, water, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Remove the ham bone and let it cool. Once cooled enough to handle, pull off any remaining meat and return it to the pot.
4. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Southern-Style Ham and Collard Greens
A classic Southern comfort food dish that combines the rich flavor of ham with the tender goodness of collard greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks or boneless ham steak, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 bunch collard greens, washed and chopped (about 4 cups)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ham pieces to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the collard greens, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone and White Bean Cassoulet
This rustic French-inspired dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made with tender ham bone, creamy white beans, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (about 2 pounds)
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or casserole dish, combine ham bone, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the ham is tender.
4. Add cannellini beans to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Ham Bone Grits Bake
A comforting twist on traditional grits, this recipe combines the creamy goodness of cheese and ham with a convenient one-dish bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine grits, water or broth, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add diced ham and stir to distribute evenly.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the surface.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham Bone and Vegetable Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect way to use up leftover ham bones and tender vegetables. With the addition of nutritious barley, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound cooked ham bone (such as leftover from a roasted ham)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine water, ham bone, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add barley and diced tomatoes; continue to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until barley is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy Ham Bone Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish combines the rich flavors of spicy ham and jambalaya with a comforting, slow-cooked twist. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the ham pieces, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham Bone and Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The addition of a ham bone adds rich flavor and tenderness to the dish, making it a staple in many Southern households.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place the ham bone on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until browned.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
4. Add the roasted ham bone, corn kernels, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness to the soup.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone Broth for Ramen Noodles
A savory and comforting base for your favorite ramen noodles, this ham bone broth recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ham bones (any leftover pork or beef bones will work too)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, roughly chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the ham bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted ham bones, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot. Discard solids.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (or overnight)
Ham Bone and Black-Eyed Peas Stew
This comforting stew is a Southern classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The addition of a ham bone adds rich flavor to the dish, while black-eyed peas provide a boost of protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 ham bone (about 2 pounds), rinsed and scrubbed clean
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine soaked black-eyed peas, ham bone, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and diced tomatoes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until black-eyed peas are tender and ham is falling apart.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Ham Bone and Cabbage Soup
Warm up with this comforting, one-pot soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a great way to use leftover ham bones and cabbage, making it a thrifty and flavorful option.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (about 2 lbs)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the ham bone on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the roasted ham bone, chopped cabbage, chicken broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including roasting time)
Ham Bone and Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of ham bone with the nutty goodness of wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup of uncooked wild rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– 1/2 cup of diced cooked ham bone
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using the water and milk.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cream of mushroom soup and thyme. Heat over low heat until warm.
4. Add diced ham bone and stir until well coated with the soup mixture.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked wild rice and ham bone mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham Bone and Pumpkin Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day, combining the rich flavor of ham bone broth with the sweetness of roasted pumpkin. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle simmering, you’ll have a deliciously soothing bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (about 2 lbs)
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: crusty bread or crackers for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pumpkin cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little water, and roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, combine the ham bone, broth, onion, garlic, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the soup has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove the ham bone from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled enough to handle, pull off any meat and return it to the pot. Discard the bone.
4. Add the roasted pumpkin to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including roasting time)
Ham Bone and Kale Minestrone
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the savory flavors of ham bone with the earthy goodness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham bone, cut into large pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the ham bone pieces, kale, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone and Tomato Bisque
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of ham bone and fresh tomatoes with a hint of spice, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham bone (preferably leftover from a roasted ham)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham bone, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ham bone broth with sautéed mushrooms and creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (about 2 pounds)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups ham bone broth (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot, combine ham bone, mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Pour in enough broth to cover the ingredients.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Strain the broth and discard the solids. Set aside.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually add the reserved broth, stirring continuously, until the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get cozy on chilly nights with these delicious recipes that use leftover ham bones! From hearty soups to creamy chowders and savory stews, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup with Beans, Creamy Ham and Potato Chowder, or Smoky Ham Bone Split Pea Soup. For a twist, make Ham Bone and Lentil Stew or Southern-Style Ham and Collard Greens. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a flavorful meal, these 18 recipes will help you use up that ham bone and warm your belly (and heart) this winter.
