Classic Southern Ham Salad Recipe

Looking for the best way to use up leftover ham? This easy homemade ham salad recipe is the perfect solution! Creamy, flavorful, and full of delicious texture, this classic ham salad comes together in just minutes using simple ingredients like chopped ham, eggs, relish, and mayonnaise. Whether you serve it on crackers, as a sandwich filling, or tucked into lettuce wraps, this quick ham salad spread is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love Ham Salad

• It’s the perfect way to use up leftover ham – If you’ve got extra ham from a holiday meal, this recipe gives it new life! Instead of reheating the same old slices, you can transform your ham into something totally different and delicious. It’s a great way to reduce food waste while making a dish everyone will enjoy.

• It comes together in just 15 minutes – No cooking needed, just chop, mix, and chill! Whether you’re short on time or just want something simple, this recipe is as easy as it gets. Perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute snacks.

• It’s creamy, flavorful, and has the perfect crunch – The combination of mayo, mustard, and relish creates a tangy, creamy base, while the celery adds a fresh crunch. Every bite is packed with savory goodness and satisfying texture. It’s a classic that never goes out of style!

• It’s super versatile – Serve it with crackers, use it in sandwiches, or spoon it into lettuce cups for a low-carb option. You can even serve it on croissants for a fancier presentation! It works for lunch, snack time, or even as an appetizer.

• It’s make-ahead friendly – This ham salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Make it in advance and have a ready-to-go meal or snack for days. It’s a time-saver that keeps on giving!

Ingredients For Ham Salad

• Ground ham – This is the base of the salad. You can use leftover cooked ham and pulse it in a food processor until finely ground.

• Hard-boiled eggs – Chopped eggs add creaminess and protein, making the salad extra satisfying.

• Celery – Adds a fresh crunch and a little texture to balance the creamy ingredients.

• Sweet pickle relish – Brings a touch of sweetness and tang that pairs perfectly with the salty ham.

• Onion – Just a bit adds a pop of savory flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Mayonnaise – Creates that creamy texture that binds everything together.

• Prepared yellow mustard – Adds a little zip and tang that complements the other flavors.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Ham Salad

• Measuring cups – For portioning out the ham, mayo, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons – To measure out smaller amounts like mustard, relish, and seasonings.

• Medium mixing bowl – Perfect for combining all the salad ingredients.

• Small bowl – Used to mix the mayo and mustard before adding to the main mixture.

• Spoon or spatula – For stirring everything together smoothly.

• Food processor (optional) – Makes it easy to finely grind the ham, especially if using leftovers.

How To Make Ham Salad

• Add the ground ham, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, sweet relish, and onion to a mixing bowl.

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and mustard until fully combined.

• Pour the mayo-mustard mixture over the ham mixture.

• Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated and creamy.

• Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy it chilled with crackers, in sandwiches, or as a dip!

Serving Suggestions

• Scoop the ham salad into a bowl and serve with an assortment of crackers. It makes a great party appetizer or quick snack.

• Pile it high on baguette rolls, crescent rolls, or onion buns for an easy and tasty lunch. Add lettuce and tomato if you’d like extra freshness.

• For a low-carb option, spoon the ham salad into roasted romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s light, refreshing, and still super satisfying.

• Hollow out a few tomatoes and fill them with ham salad for a pretty and flavorful presentation.

• Serve it as a dip with crispy potato slices, cucumber spears, or celery sticks for a fun and crunchy twist.

Tips For Success

• Start with the right ham. Leftover baked or spiral ham works great, but make sure it’s not overly sweet or glazed with something like brown sugar or honey. You want a savory ham that pairs well with the creamy ingredients. If you’re using deli ham, just make sure it’s not too thinly sliced, it should be easy to chop or pulse in the food processor.
• When grinding the ham, don’t over-process it. You want small, even pieces, not a paste. Pulse the food processor a few times until the texture resembles a fine chop. If you don’t have a food processor, you can also chop the ham finely by hand or use a meat grinder.
• Use high-quality mayo and mustard. The mayo is the base that gives the salad its creamy texture, so choose one you like the taste of. The mustard adds a zippy flavor, so a classic yellow mustard works well, but you can also try Dijon or spicy brown for a twist.
• Add your vegetables in small amounts. Celery and onion add a nice crunch and flavor, but too much can overwhelm the salad. Make sure to finely chop them so they blend in nicely without creating big chunks.
• Taste and adjust before serving. Some hams are saltier than others, so you may want to add a little extra relish or mustard to balance the flavor. Let the salad chill in the fridge for a bit, it helps the flavors come together and makes it easier to spread.
• If you plan to serve this for guests, make it ahead! The salad actually tastes better after a couple of hours in the fridge. You can even make it a day in advance, making it perfect for parties or meal prep.
• Always store your ham salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a quick stir before serving. If it looks a bit dry after sitting, add a spoonful of mayo to refresh it.

Variations And Substitutions

• Protein – While ham is the classic base, you can use other cooked meats too. Leftover turkey, chicken, or even roast beef can be pulsed in the food processor and used the same way. It’s a great method for using up whatever’s in the fridge.
• Add cheese – Stir in shredded cheddar, Swiss, or even crumbled feta for a cheesy twist. It adds richness and makes the salad more filling, perfect if you’re turning it into sandwiches or wraps.
• Try different mustards – Yellow mustard is classic, but you can use Dijon, honey mustard, or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile. Each type brings its own tang and zip, so choose one that matches your taste.
• Change up the relish – Sweet pickle relish is traditional, but dill relish works too if you prefer a more tangy, savory flavor. You can even finely chop your favorite pickles if you don’t have relish on hand.
• Make it spicy – If you love a little kick, stir in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Chopped jalapeños or banana peppers also add some heat and flavor.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo – For a lighter version, replace part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It still gives a creamy texture but with fewer calories and more protein.
• Go low-carb – Skip the bread and crackers and serve the ham salad in lettuce cups or stuffed in halved bell peppers. It’s a delicious way to enjoy it while keeping things light and low in carbs.
• Make it egg-free – If you don’t like hard-boiled eggs or have an allergy, feel free to leave them out. You’ll still get a tasty spread with the other ingredients.

Storage and Reheating

• Ham salad is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep or easy grab-and-go lunches. Before serving, give it a quick stir, sometimes the mayo can settle a bit after chilling. If it looks a little dry, just mix in a small spoonful of mayonnaise to freshen it up.
• This recipe is not freezer-friendly. The mayonnaise tends to separate when frozen and thawed, which can affect the texture and consistency of the salad. For the best taste and quality, enjoy it within a few days of making it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned ham if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to drain it well and pulse it in a food processor for the right texture. The flavor will be slightly different than using fresh or leftover ham, but it still makes a tasty spread. Many people enjoy the convenience of canned ham, especially when they don’t have leftovers available.

Do I have to use a food processor to make ham salad?

Not at all! While a food processor makes it quick and easy to get the ham finely chopped, you can absolutely chop everything by hand. Just aim for small, even pieces so the texture of the salad is consistent. If you’re using a knife, it might take a little more time, but the result is just as delicious.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To lighten up the recipe, you can use reduced-fat mayonnaise or swap some or all of it with plain Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of mayo altogether for a drier salad if that’s your preference. Serve it in lettuce wraps or on top of salad greens instead of bread or crackers to cut down on carbs. Another option is to leave out the eggs if you’re watching your cholesterol.

Can I make ham salad ahead of time?

Yes, ham salad is actually better when made ahead! Letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours helps all the flavors blend together. It’s a great make-ahead option for parties, lunches, or snacks during the week. Just store it in a covered container in the fridge and stir before serving.

What can I serve with ham salad?

Ham salad is super versatile. You can serve it with crackers as an appetizer, in sandwiches for a quick meal, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option. It also pairs well with potato chips, pickles, or fresh veggies like cucumber slices and celery sticks. If you want something heartier, try serving it on a croissant or stuffed inside a tomato.

Can I freeze ham salad?

Freezing is not recommended for ham salad. The mayonnaise doesn’t hold up well after being frozen, it tends to separate and become watery when thawed. For best results, only make as much as you can eat within 5 days. If you need to store cooked ham longer, freeze the ham by itself and make the salad fresh when you’re ready.

How long does ham salad last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, ham salad lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage like an off smell, change in texture, or discoloration before eating. It’s best to keep it as cold as possible and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. If you’re taking it to a picnic or potluck, be sure to keep it chilled.

Other Easy Ham Recipes

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup – This warm and comforting soup is loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy broth.

Cheesy Ham Hashbrown – This hearty breakfast casserole combines crispy hashbrowns, melted cheese, and chopped ham for the ultimate make-ahead brunch.

Baked Ham with Honey Glaze – Juicy and flavorful, this oven-baked ham is coated in a sweet honey glaze that’s perfect for holidays or special dinners.

Ham and Cheese Sliders – These soft, buttery sliders are stuffed with melted cheese and ham, then baked to golden perfection for the easiest party food.

Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Sandwich – This crispy air fryer sandwich features gooey melted cheese and savory ham between perfectly toasted bread.

Split Pea Soup with Ham A thick and satisfying soup made with split peas, tender ham, and simple seasonings for a classic homemade meal.

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