Country ham, a Southern staple, adds a rich, savory flavor to countless dishes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, these 18 country ham recipes have got you covered. From classic combinations like biscuits and gravy to innovative twists on old favorites, we’ve gathered the best of the South’s culinary traditions in one place.
Take your taste buds on a journey through the heart of Dixie with our Country Ham and Cheese Biscuits, served warm from the oven, or try your hand at Southern Fried Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy for a comforting breakfast. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a little pick-me-up, these country ham recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Country Ham and Cheese Biscuits
Country Ham and Cheese Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits infused with the rich flavor of country ham and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced country ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese and country ham.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it forms a cohesive ball.
7. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out biscuits.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern Fried Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy
A classic Southern comfort dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound country ham, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Red-Eye Gravy (see below)
Red-Eye Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each ham piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the ham pieces until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the fried ham from the oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve with Red-Eye Gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Country Ham and Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that combines the savory goodness of country ham with crispy potatoes and a hint of onion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large Russet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 slices of country ham, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced potato and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the diced onion and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the diced country ham to the skillet and stir to combine with the potatoes and onion.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the hash mixture to a baking dish and dot the top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Country Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
Elevate your ham game with this mouthwatering slow-cooked country ham smothered in a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in country ham
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Place the ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ground cloves until well combined.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook the ham on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Country Ham and Collard Greens Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of country ham with the nutritional benefits of collard greens, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup collard greens, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add country ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in collard greens and black pepper. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until greens are tender.
5. Season with salt to taste. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add a creamy element.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Country Ham and Grits Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the creamy richness of grits with the savory flavor of country ham. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the grits and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the diced country ham.
5. Pour the prepared grits over the ham.
6. Top with remaining country ham and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Country Ham-Stuffed Cornbread Muffins
Elevate your cornbread game with these savory muffins filled with crispy country ham and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for brunch or as a snack, these moist and flavorful treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup diced country ham
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Add dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in diced country ham.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Country Ham and Apple Butter Sandwiches
A sweet and savory twist on the classic ham sandwich, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of country ham with the tangy sweetness of apple butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of apple butter
– 4 slices of country ham
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise or spread
– Lettuce, tomato, and/or spinach leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread one side of each bread slice with apple butter.
3. Place two slices of country ham on top of the apple butter.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, and/or spinach leaves if desired.
5. Top with another bread slice, spread-side down.
6. Place sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bread is toasted and ham is heated through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Country Ham and Sweet Potato Pie
A classic Southern dessert that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of country ham. This pie is perfect for a comforting treat or a unique addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup diced country ham
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in diced country ham.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Country Ham and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A classic Southern twist on a Chinese stir-fry, this recipe combines the savory flavors of country ham with crunchy green beans for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 2 slices country ham, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or hot sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the green beans and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the country ham and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Country Ham and Cheddar Quiche
This quiche is a savory delight that combines the rich flavors of country ham and cheddar cheese with a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch or breakfast, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices country ham, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange diced country ham on the bottom of the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the ham.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and ham.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Country Ham and Pea Pasta Carbonara
A Southern twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the savory flavors of country ham and sweet peas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup country ham, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add country ham and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked country ham and peas to the pasta mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are set.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Country Ham and Buttermilk Biscuit Sliders
These bite-sized sliders combine the savory flavor of country ham with the flaky, buttery goodness of buttermilk biscuits. Perfect for a casual gathering or impromptu snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 slices country ham, diced
– Lettuce leaves and/or pickles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
4. Pour in buttermilk; stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into small squares (about 3 inches per side).
6. Place squares on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each biscuit.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Assemble sliders by topping baked biscuits with diced country ham and a dollop of your favorite spread.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Country Ham and Black-Eyed Pea Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the rich flavors of country ham with the creamy texture of black-eyed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced country ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until browned.
4. Add the rinsed black-eyed peas, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Country Ham and Honey Mustard Glazed Roast
Elevate your roast game with this sweet and savory glaze, featuring the rich flavor of country ham and a hint of honey. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless beef roast (such as prime rib or round)
– 1/4 cup country ham, diced
– 1/4 cup honey mustard
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together country ham, honey mustard, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Rub the mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the roast and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Country Ham and Scalloped Potatoes Bake
A comforting casserole that combines the savory flavors of country ham with the creamy richness of scalloped potatoes, perfect for a hearty weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom.
3. Sprinkle with half of the country ham, salt, and pepper.
4. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Country Ham and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines the sweetness of chicken with the smokiness of country ham and the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup country ham, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together country ham, spinach, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the country ham and spinach mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Country Ham and Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Country Ham and Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Elevate your holiday menu with this sweet and savory combination of crispy Brussels sprouts and salty country ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of country ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, combine country ham, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze is thickened slightly.
5. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with the maple-glazed country ham. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering country ham recipes to elevate your mealtime. From classic comfort food to innovative twists, these savory dishes showcase the rich flavor and versatility of country ham. Try Country Ham and Cheese Biscuits for a satisfying breakfast or brunch, or opt for Southern Fried Country Ham with Red-Eye Gravy as a hearty dinner option. With sweet and tangy glazes, crunchy hash browns, and more, there’s something for every taste and occasion in this collection of country ham recipes.
