Looking for an easy, flavorful way to use up leftover ham? This classic ham salad recipe is a perfect choice. Made with finely chopped ham, creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, crunchy celery, and a touch of pickle relish and brine, this easy ham spread comes together in minutes and works beautifully in sandwiches, wraps, or served with crackers for a crowd.
When we make a holiday baked ham, we plan for leftovers specifically so we can enjoy recipes like this one throughout the week.
Why We Love This Easy Ham Salad Recipe
This ham salad is quick, versatile, and satisfying. With simple ingredients you likely have on hand, it transforms leftover ham into a delicious meal or snack in minutes.
- Leftover Ham Solution: When you have extra ham, this recipe turns it into something new and appealing.
- Fast Prep: Ready in under 10 minutes—use a food processor to finely chop the ham, or dice by hand if you prefer.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for quick lunches, snacks, or an easy dinner throughout the week.
How To Make Ham Salad
Below are the basic steps with photos for guidance. For complete details, refer to the recipe card that follows.
Add cubed ham to a food processor and pulse to your preferred texture. If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the ham by hand.
Choose your texture: Pulse briefly for a chunkier salad or longer for a finer spread. Both work; pick the texture you enjoy most.
Mix the dressing: Combine mayonnaise, dijon mustard, celery, pickle relish (or chopped pickles), pickle brine, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Toss with the chopped ham, chill for an hour to let flavors meld, then serve.
Variations
This recipe is a great base that’s easy to customize based on taste or what’s in your fridge.
Try adding: Chopped hard-boiled egg, shredded cheese, scallions, red onion, or finely diced jalapeño for heat. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil brighten the flavor.
Substitutions: Swap part or all of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten the salad. A dash of hot sauce or extra pickle brine can boost tang and depth without overwhelming the dish.
How To Serve Ham Salad
Serve on your favorite bread or roll for a hearty sandwich. It also works well in a tortilla with lettuce or shredded cabbage for crunch, or spooned onto crackers, pita chips, or celery sticks for appetizers.
Try it in lettuce cups, atop a green salad, or simply scooped onto thick, ridged potato chips for a salty, satisfying bite.
Looking For More Leftover Ham Recipes?
- Slow Cooker Pasta Fagioli
- Stove Top Split Pea Soup
- Slow Cooker Ham and Noodle Soup
- Navy Bean Soup (Ham Bone Soup)
Ham Salad Recipe
- Author: Dan
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
This easy ham salad recipe makes a creamy, tangy spread that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or crackers. It’s ideal for quick lunches, party platters, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 pound leftover ham (or ham steak or thick-sliced deli ham)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely diced celery
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish (or finely chopped pickles)
- 2 tablespoons pickle brine
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the ham into small dice with a knife or pulse in a food processor, then transfer to a bowl.
- Add the mayonnaise, mustard, celery, pickle relish (or chopped pickles), pickle brine, Worcestershire sauce, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine and taste; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to let flavors meld, then stir again before serving.
- Serve with crackers, chips, celery sticks, or use as a sandwich or wrap filling.
Recipe Notes
Store: Keep ham salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The shelf life will depend on the freshness of the ham you used, so use your best judgment.
- Category: Dinner
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American