The holiday season has come to a close, but the delicious leftovers remain. If you’re like many people, you’ve got a ham bone left over from your festive feast, just begging to be transformed into something new and exciting. But what to do with it? Don’t toss that flavorful bone just yet! With these 20 savory recipes, you’ll turn yesterday’s ham bone into today’s comforting meal. From hearty soups and stews to creamy chowders and risottos, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or adventurous culinary explorations, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that leftover ham bone into a flavorful foundation for a new meal.
Slow Cooker Ham Bone and Bean Soup
This comforting slow cooker soup is a perfect way to reuse a leftover ham bone, packed with tender beans, vegetables, and rich flavors. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (leftover or purchased from a butcher)
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the ham bone, beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the ham bone and shred any remaining meat. Return it to the soup.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Ham Bone Potato Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Creamy Ham Bone Potato Chowder combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until heated through.
3. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Ham Bone Collard Greens
Southern Ham Bone Collard Greens: A Hearty and Delicious Southern Tradition
This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked collard greens with the savory essence of a ham bone, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 1 ham bone (preferably smoked)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Remove any excess fat from the ham bone.
3. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add collard greens, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. Place the ham bone in the pot, making sure it’s covered with the collard green mixture.
7. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Ham Bone Split Pea Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor from the rich ham bone broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 pounds smoked ham hock or neckbone
– 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 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the ham hock or neckbone in a large Dutch oven or pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the ham bone.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the split peas, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2 hours or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoky Ham Bone Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish is a twist on the classic Cajun rice bowl, featuring tender smoky ham and savory jambalaya spices. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked ham bone
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the smoked ham bone, rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham Bone and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The rich flavors of ham bone, lentils, and vegetables come together in a deliciously satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham bone
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, ham bone, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Ham Bone Pasta Bake
A comforting and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of ham, pasta, and cheese with the convenience of using leftover ham bone.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1 cup cooked ham bone, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ham bone, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, cream, salt, pepper, and basil.
4. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham Bone Navy Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of tender navy beans, savory ham bone, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 ham bone (about 2 pounds), rinsed and reserved
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the ham bone in a large Dutch oven or pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook over medium heat until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Rustic Ham Bone Minestrone
This hearty soup is a perfect way to use up leftover ham bone and vegetables from your favorite roasted meal. The result is a comforting, flavorful broth filled with tender beans, vegetables, and rich ham flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (preferably cooked and cooled)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine ham bone, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and thyme.
5. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone and Corn Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the rich flavor of ham with the sweetness of corn, all in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham bone ( leftover or store-bought)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ham bone.
2. Cook over medium heat until the onions are translucent and the ham is lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the frozen corn kernels and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the corn is tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the chowder for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Ham Bone Black-Eyed Peas
This hearty and flavorful dish is a Southern classic, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The spicy ham bone adds a rich depth of flavor to the tender black-eyed peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 ham bone (from a spiral-cut ham), any excess fat removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine the black-eyed peas, ham bone, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pour in the water and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the peas are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Ham Bone and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavor of ham with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham bone
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ham bone, wild rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Remove the ham bone from the pot and shred the meat before returning it to the soup.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Savory Ham Bone Broth Risotto
A comforting and flavorful risotto recipe that showcases the rich flavors of a ham bone broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups ham bone broth (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the ham bone broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Note: To make ham bone broth, simmer a ham bone in 4 cups of water for at least 2 hours. Strain and use as instructed.
Ham Bone White Bean Cassoulet
This rich and flavorful casserole combines the comforting warmth of white beans with the savory goodness of ham bone, all topped with a crispy crust. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced cooked ham (from the bone)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add soaked beans, ham, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
4. Top with grated cheese (if using).
5. Transfer casserole to a baking dish and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Ham Bone and Kale Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect way to make use of leftover ham bones and kale, with a rich broth and tender vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped kale
– 1 ham bone (about 2 lbs)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°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 onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little oil until tender.
4. Add the roasted ham bone, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Herbed Ham Bone Vegetable Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe uses a ham bone to add depth of flavor, while fresh herbs provide a bright and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (with meat removed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Strain the soup and discard the solids. Return the soup to the pot and add the ham bone. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the soup has reached desired thickness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham Bone and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect way to use up leftover ham bones and cabbage, making it a thrifty and flavorful meal option. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups diced cabbage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ham bone (about 2 pounds)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced cabbage and cook until wilted.
3. Add the ham bone, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Ham Bone Chickpea Curry
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a traditional curry with the unexpected twist of using ham bone broth as a base. The result is a comforting, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 ham bone (from a cooked ham or leftover roast)
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Simmer the ham bone in 2 cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain and discard solids.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and ham bone broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Ham Bone Red Beans and Rice
This hearty one-pot dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. With the rich flavor of smoked ham bone and tender red beans, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced Smoked Ham Bone ( reserve for later use)
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add soaked red beans, chicken broth, and reserved Smoked Ham Bone. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Stir in cooked rice and additional water if needed. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Ham Bone Red Beans and Rice!
Ham Bone Barley and Mushroom Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup made with the rich flavor of ham bones, creamy barley, and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ham bone (from a cooked ham)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham bone, water, and barley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
2. Add butter, onion, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook for an additional 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Remove ham bone from the pot and chop into small pieces. Return ham to the soup and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover ham bone and transform it into 20 savory comfort food recipes! From hearty soups to rich stews, these dishes are perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Discover how to turn your ham bone into a delicious bean soup, creamy potato chowder, or smoky jambalaya. You can even use it to make a comforting pasta bake or a flavorful vegetable stew. With these recipes, you’ll never have to worry about going hungry again when you’re left with a ham bone. Try them out and enjoy a satisfying meal!
