As a staple in many pantries, Spam has long been associated with canned goods and humble meals. However, this versatile ingredient can be transformed into a wide range of delectable dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to your breakfast routine, create a satisfying lunch or dinner, or even serve up a show-stopping appetizer or snack, Spam has got you covered.
From classic combinations like Spam and egg sandwiches to more adventurous creations like Spam-filled tacos and Spam-stuffed peppers, the possibilities are endless. And with our collection of 20 savory Spam recipes below, you’ll be inspired to get creative in the kitchen and elevate this humble ingredient into a culinary superstar.
Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze
Experience the fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors and American-style convenience with this unique recipe for Spam musubi. By adding a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, you’ll elevate the humble canned meat to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup of cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. Grill or pan-fry the Spam slices until crispy and caramelized.
3. Mix the soy sauce, sake (if using), sugar, and water to create a teriyaki glaze.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze onto the cooked Spam pieces.
5. Assemble the musubi by spreading a small amount of rice onto a sheet of nori seaweed, placing a glazed Spam piece in the center, and wrapping the seaweed around the filling.
6. Serve immediately or store for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots
A classic twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with sweet peas and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 1 cup mixed peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Spam and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
5. Add the peas and carrots and stir-fry until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Egg Breakfast Burrito
A classic breakfast burrito gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of crispy Spam. This easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by adding scrambled eggs, crispy Spam, shredded cheese, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Carbonara Pasta
This unique fusion of Japanese-American cuisine combines the savory flavors of Spam with the rich creaminess of carbonara sauce, served over al dente pasta. Perfect for adventurous foodies and busy home cooks alike!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 can Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add sliced Spam to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside with pancetta.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and egg mixture in the skillet. Stir constantly over medium heat until sauce thickens.
6. Add cooked Spam and pancetta to the skillet, stirring to combine.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of Spam and cheese with sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced Spam, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the Spam mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spam Tacos with Avocado Crema
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with creamy avocado crema and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into small pieces
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Spam and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing a few pieces of cooked Spam onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a spoonful of avocado crema (see below).
4. Top with sliced red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Avocado Crema:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Spam and Potato Hash
Get ready for a satisfying and filling breakfast or brunch with this simple Spam and Potato Hash recipe. This hearty dish combines the savory flavor of Spam with the natural sweetness of potatoes, all in one delicious pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
4. Add the diced Spam and stir to combine with the potatoes and onions.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the Spam is crispy and the potatoes are golden brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam Sliders with Pineapple Relish
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and savory Spam Sliders, topped with a tangy pineapple relish.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of Spam
– 1 cup of pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 12 mini buns (or small hamburger buns)
– Lettuce and tomato, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Spam slices until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, brown sugar, soy sauce, cilantro, rice vinegar, and ginger in a bowl.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked Spam slice on each bun, followed by a spoonful of the pineapple relish.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spam and Kimchi Stew
This Korean-inspired stew combines the savory flavor of Spam with the spicy kick of kimchi, making it a unique and delicious twist on traditional comfort food. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups of kimchi, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the kimchi, chicken broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the Spam to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spam Mac and Cheese Bake
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the savory flavor of Spam, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (12 oz) Spam, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, Spam pieces, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spam and Scallion Pancakes
These crispy, golden brown pancakes are packed with the rich flavor of Spam and the pungency of scallions. Perfect as a side dish or snack, they’re sure to please even the most skeptical eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 2 scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the diced Spam, scallion slices, egg, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Using a ladle, scoop small amounts of the batter into the oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Spam Breakfast Sandwich with Sriracha Mayo
A twist on the classic breakfast sandwich, this recipe adds a spicy kick from sriracha mayo. It’s an easy and satisfying way to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of Spam
– 2 eggs
– 2 English muffins
– 1/4 cup Sriracha mayonnaise (see note)
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cheese, lettuce, tomato
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spam slices in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown.
2. In the same skillet, fry the eggs to your desired doneness.
3. Butter the English muffins and toast them lightly.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of cooked Spam on each muffin half, followed by an egg, and finishing with a dollop of Sriracha mayonnaise.
5. Add any optional toppings you like (e.g., cheese, lettuce, tomato).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This classic Hawaiian dish combines the savory flavor of Spam with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, sliced into thin strips
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned on both sides.
3. Add the cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes, until slightly caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.
5. Pour the sauce over the Spam and cabbage, stirring to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Egg Drop Soup
This recipe combines the classic comfort of egg drop soup with the savory flavor of Spam, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.
2. Add diced Spam to the pot and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together beaten eggs and grated ginger.
4. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the soup while stirring in a circular motion to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Corn Fritters
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the richness of Spam with the natural sweetness of corn.
Ingredients:
– 1 can Spam, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced Spam, corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and melted butter.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the Spam mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the Spam mixture into the hot oil, about the size of a golf ball.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of fritters made.
Spam and Veggie Fried Noodles
Quick and satisfying, this recipe combines the savory flavor of Spam with colorful vegetables and a flavorful sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious plate of fried noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced
– 2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup of cooked noodles (preferably Chinese-style, such as lo mein or chow mein)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Spam slices and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the Spam from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked noodles, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Return the Spam slices to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Spam and Cheese Quesadillas
Take your love of quesadillas to the next level with this creative recipe that combines the savory flavors of Spam and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Spam, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add 2-3 slices of diced Spam on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway through.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (4 quesadillas).
Spam and Sweet Chili Skewers
Add a twist to traditional skewers with the savory flavor of Spam and sweet chili sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce and olive oil.
3. Thread Spam pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the sweet chili mixture evenly over the Spam.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until Spam is caramelized and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spam and Garlic Butter Rice
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Spam with the savory goodness of garlic butter rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can Spam, sliced into small pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions until it’s lightly toasted.
2. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced Spam to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spam and Scrambled Egg Bibimbap
This unique twist on traditional Korean bibimbap adds a savory spin with crispy Spam and fluffy scrambled eggs. A flavorful one-bowl meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of Spam, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shiitake mushrooms, zucchini)
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: kimchi, pickled ginger, or other Korean-style toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spam in a pan with oil until crispy.
2. Scramble eggs in a separate bowl and set aside.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. In the same skillet, add cooked rice and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Assemble the bibimbap by placing cooked Spam on top of the rice mixture.
6. Serve with scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and your choice of Korean-style toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover new and exciting ways to incorporate Spam into your meals with these 20 savory recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic combinations like Spam Musubi with Teriyaki Glaze and Spam Fried Rice with Peas and Carrots, to creative twists like Spam and Cheese Stuffed Peppers and Spam Tacos with Avocado Crema, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a satisfying dinner, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking with this versatile canned meat. Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these mouth-watering Spam creations!
