When it comes to comforting, satisfying meals that are perfect for any occasion, ham and rice is a winning combination. Whether you’re looking for a hearty casserole to serve at a family gathering or a quick and easy skillet meal to fuel your busy day, this classic duo has got you covered. With its rich flavor and versatility, ham pairs perfectly with rice in a wide range of dishes, from creamy soups to savory stir-fries.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering ham and rice recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic comfort food to international-inspired twists, these recipes showcase the best of what ham and rice has to offer.
Classic Ham and Rice Casserole
Classic Ham and Rice Casserole Recipe
This comforting casserole is a staple of American comfort food, featuring tender ham, flavorful rice, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried onion flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ham, rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, butter, onion flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
5. Combine crushed crackers and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Ham Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on a classic Chinese dish, this Spicy Ham Fried Rice recipe combines savory ham with spicy kick from chili flakes and scallions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced ham
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Ham and Rice Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy ham and rice soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the cooked ham, chicken broth, and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Rice Bake
This classic recipe combines flavorful ham, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice in a satisfying casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, diced ham, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hawaiian Ham and Rice Bowl
A classic comfort food dish that combines savory ham, fluffy rice, and sweet pineapple, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup diced ham (such as Honey Ham)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and stir to combine with the ham. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. To assemble the bowls, place cooked rice at the bottom, followed by the ham and pineapple mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Ham and Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of ham with the creaminess of garlic butter, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ham and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Return the ham to the skillet and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavors of ham and rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, ham, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and return to oven for 1-2 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Ham and Rice Pilaf
A hearty and comforting one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this ham and rice pilaf is easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb diced cooked ham (such as leftover ham or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced ham.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoked Ham and Wild Rice Salad
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the savory sweetness of smoked ham with the nutty goodness of wild rice, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup diced smoked ham (such as Virginia-style)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice and diced smoked ham.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ham and Rice Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Louisiana with the comfort of a warm bowl of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this jambalaya is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced ham, chicken broth, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Savory Ham and Rice Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these crispy and savory pancakes packed with ham, rice, and cheese. Perfect for a quick meal or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– All-purpose flour, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced ham, grated cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten eggs and melted butter to the rice mixture. Stir until a batter forms.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter if necessary.
4. Using 1/4 cup of batter per pancake, drop spoonfuls onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Rice Breakfast Hash
This classic breakfast dish combines savory ham, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables to create a satisfying morning meal that’s sure to please. With its comforting flavors and textures, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups diced cooked ham (such as leftover roast or deli slices)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked ham and cooked rice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Ham and Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the savory taste of ham, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/2 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced ham, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to combine with the ham mixture.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines the savory goodness of ham and rice with the natural sweetness of zucchinis. Perfect as a main dish or side, these boats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 6 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, diced ham, and butter until well combined.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ham and rice mixture.
5. Place the stuffed boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Rice Cabbage Rolls
These flavorful rolls are a delicious twist on traditional cabbage rolls, filled with savory ham and rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, outer leaves removed
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 pound diced ham
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the cabbage leaves by boiling them in a large pot of water for 5-7 minutes or until soft.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, diced ham, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the rolled cabbage bundles, seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until browned, flipping occasionally.
7. Transfer the rolls to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Ham and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and easy-to-make one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines the savory taste of ham with the brightness of lemon and the comfort of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak, sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ham and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
3. Remove the ham from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Squeeze the lemon juice over the rice mixture and stir to combine.
7. Return the ham to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Rice Risotto
This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and rice with a creamy risotto. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or country ham)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add warmed chicken broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in diced ham and thyme.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 30 minutes
Ham and Rice Dumplings
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines savory ham with fluffy rice and a crispy exterior. Perfect as a main course or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced ham, and flour. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions (about 1-inch in diameter).
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the dumplings for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ham and Rice Quiche
This savory quiche is a perfect brunch option or breakfast dish, filled with flavorful ham and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
5. Pour the cream mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Rice Taco Bowl
This recipe combines the comfort of ham and rice with the bold flavors of a taco bowl, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cooked ham; cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice, peas and carrots to the skillet; stir until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 20 mouthwatering ham and rice recipes, perfect for any occasion! From comforting casseroles to savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone. Classics like Ham and Rice Casserole and Cheesy Ham and Rice Bake are joined by international twists like Hawaiian Ham and Rice Bowl and Teriyaki Ham and Rice Stir-Fry. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping brunch, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Dive in and discover the endless possibilities of ham and rice!
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