Imagine waking up to a warm and delectable breakfast of Hearty Leftover Ham Hash. This dish is a fantastic way to utilize leftover ham from previous meals. Combined with crispy hash browns, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked eggs, it transforms into a flavorful, hearty dish that's perfect any time of the day.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are likely to be found in your kitchen. However, hash browns might not be a staple in everyone's house. If you don’t usually keep them on hand, they can easily be found in the frozen aisle of most supermarkets. Also, If you don’t have leftover ham, you can purchase a small ham steak.
Key Ingredients for Hearty Leftover Ham Hash
Olive oil: This healthy fat is used to cook the onions, and to prevent the hash browns and ham from sticking to the skillet.
Onion: Onion adds a sweet and savory depth to the hash.
Leftover ham: This is a great way to use up leftover ham. It provides a smoky flavor to the hash.
Hash browns: These are the backbone of the dish, providing a crispy texture.
Green pepper: Green pepper adds a fresh and slightly bitter taste to the hash.
Eggs: Eggs are cracked directly into the hash, and provide a rich, creamy element.
Salt and Pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Cheddar cheese: Cheese is sprinkled on top for a gooey, melted finish.
One reader, Gleda Roller says:
This hearty leftover ham hash recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crispy hash browns, savory ham, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. It's a perfect way to use up leftovers and create a delicious meal. The flavors blend beautifully, and it's so easy to make. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Crafting Hearty Leftover Ham Hash
How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
How to cook the onions: Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened.
How to make the hash: Stir in the hash browns, green pepper, and ham. Cook until the hash browns are lightly browned.
How to bake the hash: Create 4 wells in the hash and break an egg into each hole. Season with salt and pepper, and top with cheese. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your preference.
How To Make Leftover Ham Hash
Got some leftover ham from the holidays? Try out our tasty leftover ham hash recipe that’s made with soft hash brown potatoes, green pepper, and smoky ham!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspolive oil
- ½cuponion,diced
- 1½cupsleftover ham,diced
- 2½cupshash browns,defrosted
- ½green pepper,finely diced
- 4eggs
- salt and pepper,to taste
- ¼cupcheddar cheese
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
-
Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened.
-
Stir in the hash browns, green pepper, and ham. Cook until the hashbrowns are lightly browned.
-
Create 4 wells in the hash and break an egg into each hole. Season with salt and pepper, and top with cheese.
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Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your preference.
Recipe Notes
The eggs will continue to cook once removed from the oven, so do not overcook.
Nutrition
- Calories: 579.10kcal
- Fat: 34.67g
- Saturated Fat: 8.65g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 16.53g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.33g
- Carbohydrates: 41.29g
- Fiber: 3.92g
- Sugar: 2.84g
- Protein: 24.77g
- Cholesterol: 218.55mg
- Sodium: 1332.85mg
- Calcium: 109.15mg
- Potassium: 964.19mg
- Iron: 2.22mg
- Vitamin A: 93.34µg
- Vitamin C: 25.84mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Hearty Leftover Ham Hash
When preparing the hash browns, it's important to ensure they are spread out evenly in the skillet. This allows for even cooking and browning. Also, when creating the wells for the eggs, make sure they are spaced out evenly to prevent the eggs from merging together during the baking process. Lastly, for a more flavorful dish, consider sautéing the green pepper with the onion before adding them to the hash. This will release more of their natural flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Hearty Hash Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and store the onions, peppers, and ham in advance to save time when making the hash.
Use pre-cooked ham: Utilize pre-cooked ham to cut down on cooking time and make the recipe more convenient.
One-pan meal: Opt for an ovenproof skillet to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of hash and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal in the future.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onions, peppers, and ham for the hash.
Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Ham Hash Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can add a rich and creamy flavor to the hash, and it will help with browning the ingredients.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the hash.
ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can provide a similar savory and smoky flavor to the hash, while also being a leaner option.
hash browns - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a slightly sweet and earthy flavor to the hash, and they are a healthier alternative with added nutrients.
green pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers offer a slightly sweeter and milder flavor compared to green peppers, adding a pop of color and sweetness to the hash.
eggs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be seasoned and cooked similarly to eggs, providing a plant-based protein option for the hash.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which can add a rich and creamy taste to the hash.
Presenting Your Leftover Ham Hash
Elevate the plating: When presenting the hearty leftover ham hash, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the components to showcase the dish's rustic charm while maintaining a sophisticated look.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
Utilize high-quality cookware: Serve the hearty leftover ham hash in a stylish and high-quality ovenproof skillet to elevate the presentation. The choice of cookware can enhance the perception of the dish's quality and attention to detail.
Consider the placement of the eggs: When plating, ensure that the eggs are perfectly cooked and strategically placed to create a focal point. The runny yolk should be visible, adding a touch of indulgence to the presentation.
Emphasize balance and symmetry: Arrange the components of the hearty leftover ham hash thoughtfully to create a sense of balance and symmetry on the plate. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and care in the presentation.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the contrast in textures by ensuring the hash browns are crispy, the ham is tender, and the eggs are perfectly cooked. This attention to textural contrast adds depth to the presentation and elevates the overall dining experience.
Use minimalistic garnishes: Opt for minimalistic yet impactful garnishes, such as a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, to add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the dish.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a porcelain plate or a slate platter to present the dish, as the choice of plate can complement the rustic yet refined nature of the hearty leftover ham hash.
Pay attention to negative space: Embrace negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Thoughtful use of negative space can draw attention to the main components and create a visually striking presentation.
Storing and Freezing Your Leftover Ham Hash
- Let the ham hash cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled ham hash to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the ham hash:
- Divide the cooled ham hash into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen ham hash will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat the frozen ham hash, you have two options:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Place the frozen ham hash directly in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and let it thaw and heat slowly, stirring occasionally. This method may take longer but requires less planning ahead.
- If you want to freeze the ham hash with the eggs, be aware that the texture of the eggs may change slightly after thawing and reheating. The eggs may become a bit rubbery, but the overall dish will still be tasty.
How To Reheat Leftover Ham Hash
Stovetop method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Once hot, add the leftover ham hash to the skillet. Stir occasionally, allowing the hash to heat through and develop a slight crisp on the bottom. This method is quick and easy, perfect for busy mornings.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover ham hash to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the hash from drying out. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the hash is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up slightly. This method is ideal for larger portions and ensures even heating throughout.
Microwave method: Place the leftover ham hash in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the hash is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the eggs to become rubbery. This method is the quickest, but may result in a softer texture compared to the other methods.
Air fryer method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ham hash in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is spread out evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the hash is heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is perfect for those who love a crispy texture and want to avoid using additional oil.
Waffle iron method: Preheat your waffle iron. Grease the waffle iron plates with a small amount of cooking spray or melted butter. Spoon the leftover ham hash onto the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the hash is heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is a fun and creative way to repurpose your leftovers, resulting in a unique and delicious breakfast treat.
Interesting Trivia About Leftover Ham Hash
Hash browns are a popular breakfast dish in the United States and are made from finely chopped potatoes that are fried until crispy.
Is Making Ham Hash at Home Cost-Effective?
This leftover ham hash recipe is highly cost-effective, utilizing leftover ham and basic pantry staples. With a rating of 8/10, it offers a budget-friendly and satisfying meal for a family of four at approximately $10. The versatility of this dish allows for variations based on available ingredients, making it an economical choice for households.
Is This Hearty Hash Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This hearty leftover ham hash recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:
- The recipe uses olive oil for cooking, which is a healthier choice compared to butter or other oils high in saturated fats. However, the amount used (2 tbsp) is quite generous and could be reduced to lower the overall calorie and fat content.
- Ham is a processed meat that is high in sodium and may contain nitrates, which have been linked to certain health risks when consumed in excess.
- Hash browns are typically high in carbohydrates and may be fried or prepared with added oils, increasing the fat content of the dish.
- The recipe includes eggs and cheddar cheese, which are sources of protein and calcium but also contribute to the overall cholesterol and saturated fat content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in cooking, or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fats.
- Use a leaner cut of ham or substitute it with a healthier protein source, such as turkey or tofu.
- Instead of hash browns, use diced sweet potatoes or regular potatoes for a more nutrient-dense option. Roast them in the oven with minimal oil to reduce the fat content.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the hash, such as diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
- Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese or sprinkle the dish with a smaller amount of regular cheddar to minimize the saturated fat content.
- Serve the hash with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.
Editor's Take on This Hearty Leftover Ham Hash Recipe
This hearty leftover ham hash recipe is a delightful way to repurpose leftover ham into a satisfying meal. The combination of crispy hash browns, savory ham, and eggs baked to perfection creates a comforting and flavorful dish. The addition of onions and green peppers adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. The dish is versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. The simplicity of the recipe makes it a convenient option for using up leftovers while still delivering a delicious and hearty meal.
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Why trust this Leftover Ham Hash Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious way to use up leftover ham and create a satisfying meal. The combination of ham, hash browns, and eggs provides a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any time of day. The use of olive oil and cheddar cheese adds richness and depth of flavor. The step-by-step instructions ensure that each component is cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Trust in the simplicity and versatility of this recipe to create a delicious meal with minimal effort.
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