When it comes to quick and easy meals, few ingredients can rival the humble can of Spam. This salty, savory staple has been a pantry favorite for generations, and with good reason: it’s incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a wide range of tasty dishes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast option or a satisfying snack, Spam is always up to the task.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 crispy fried Spam recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic combinations like Fried Spam with Rice and Eggs to more adventurous takes like Spam Tacos with Avocado Salsa, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So why not give them a try and see just how many delicious meals you can whip up with this humble can of goodness?
Classic Fried Spam with Rice and Eggs
A simple and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make and packed with protein and flavor. This classic recipe combines crispy fried Spam, fluffy rice, and a pair of sunny-side-up eggs for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame seeds, or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam slices and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the Spam from the skillet and set aside.
4. Crack an egg into the same skillet and cook sunny-side-up, about 3-4 minutes or until whites are set.
5. Serve the fried Spam with a scoop of rice, a pair of eggs, and any desired garnishes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze
A classic Hawaiian snack gets a sweet and savory twist! This recipe combines the salty goodness of Spam with the sticky sweetness of teriyaki glaze, all wrapped up in a crispy rice ball.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 1/4 cup water
– Teriyaki glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut a sheet of plastic wrap to fit your work surface. Place the cooked rice on the plastic wrap and shape into a rectangular block, about 1 inch thick.
3. Slice the Spam into 1-inch pieces and place on top of the rice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Fold the plastic wrap over the Spam and use your hands to shape the mixture into a compact rectangle.
5. Cook in a steamer basket for 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is crispy on the outside and tender inside.
6. Meanwhile, heat the teriyaki glaze according to package instructions (or homemade recipe).
7. Brush the warmed teriyaki glaze over the Spam musubi just before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Spam and Cheese Sandwich
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! This recipe brings together crispy fried Spam, melted cheese, and toasted bread for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1/2-inch thick strips
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 slices of American cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked Spam strip on each bread slice, followed by a slice of cheese.
5. Place the sandwiches in the skillet or frying pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected combination of crispy Spam fries and creamy spicy mayo dip. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into fry-like strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the Spam and potato strips until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
4. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise and sriracha sauce.
5. Serve the Spam fries with spicy mayo dip for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Spam Breakfast Hash
A hearty, comforting breakfast dish that combines crispy fried Spam with scrambled eggs, bell peppers, and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam slices and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Add the fried Spam back into the skillet and stir to combine with the eggs and vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Kimchi Fried Rice
Spam and Kimchi Fried Rice: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Korean-Chinese Dish
This recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with the spicy kick of kimchi, creating a unique and delicious fried rice dish that’s perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 slices of Spam, diced
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked rice, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Spam Tacos with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines the savory goodness of fried Spam with the freshness of avocado salsa, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup of cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 8-10 taco shells
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
2. Dredge Spam slices in cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry Spam slices in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fried Spam slices inside shells, topping with avocado salsa and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, including frying time.
Spam and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast burritos by combining the savory goodness of Spam with scrambled eggs, wrapped in a warm tortilla. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy mornings or brunches with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Pour in whisked eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Add diced Spam to the skillet and stir until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by adding scrambled egg and Spam mixture, then top with shredded cheese and salsa (if using).
7. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to melt cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Spam Sliders with Pineapple Relish
Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on the classic slider. This unique recipe combines crispy fried Spam, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy pineapple relish on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam
– 4 hamburger buns
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Pineapple Relish (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Pineapple Relish:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Cut the Spam into small cubes and fry in hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
3. Assemble the sliders by placing fried Spam, melted cheddar cheese, and a spoonful of pineapple relish on each bun.
4. Top with lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Frying the Spam: 3-4 minutes
– Assembly and serving: 5 minutes
Spam and Potato Pancakes
Get ready to experience the delightful combination of crispy potato pancakes and savory Spam! This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, diced Spam, chopped onion, eggs, and flour. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly.
5. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes
Fried Spam Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
This recipe combines the savory flavors of fried Spam and soft-boiled egg with the comfort of a warm bowl of ramen. The result is a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups of ramen noodles
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1 soft-boiled egg, peeled and halved
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
– Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and cooked noodles to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Crack an egg into the skillet and stir gently to create soft-boiled egg curds.
5. Serve the fried Spam and ramen in a bowl, topped with the soft-boiled egg and garnished with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Macaroni Salad
A classic comfort food dish that combines the savory flavor of Spam with the satisfying texture of macaroni.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of Spam, diced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced Spam and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
4. Add the cooked Spam to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Spam Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the savory flavor of fried Spam with a medley of colorful vegetables, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With its simplicity and speed, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup of broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the bell pepper and broccoli to the pan and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the Spam to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Cheese Omelette
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This Spam and Cheese Omelette recipe is a simple twist on the traditional omelette, adding savory Spam for added texture and taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup diced Spam
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set, about 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the diced Spam and shredded cheese evenly over the eggs.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the omelette in half.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to melt the cheese and warm through.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Fried Spam Quesadillas with Sour Cream
A twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines the savory flavor of fried spam with the creaminess of sour cream. Perfect for a unique snack or late-night craving.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Spam
– 4 tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place two slices of Spam in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy.
3. Meanwhile, place a tortilla in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm it up.
4. Assemble the quesadillas by placing one slice of fried Spam onto the warmed tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half and cook in the skillet with the remaining oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spam and Scallion Pancakes
These crispy pancakes are a unique fusion of Korean-style street food and American classic Spam. With the added flavor of scallions, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup scallions, chopped
– 1 egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add diced Spam, chopped scallions, and beaten egg to the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the batter into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Fried Spam Bites with Sweet Chili Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines crispy fried Spam bites with a sweet and spicy kick. Perfect for parties, game days, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each Spam cube into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured Spam cubes into buttermilk, then roll in crushed crackers (optional).
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry Spam bites for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the Spam cubes.
Spam and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A savory and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the humble can of Spam with crunchy cabbage and a hint of garlic.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 crispy fried Spam recipes! From classic pairings like Fried Spam with Rice and Eggs, to innovative twists like Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze and Spam Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip, there’s something for everyone. Try Fried Spam Tacos with Avocado Salsa or Spam and Kimchi Fried Rice for a flavorful adventure. Or, go comfort food route with Fried Spam Breakfast Hash or Spam and Cheese Omelette. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these recipes will satisfy your cravings!
