15 Easy Ham Recipes for Dinner You’ll Love Tonight

15 Easy Ham Recipes for Dinner You'll Love Tonight

As the sun sets, the smell of sizzling ham fills the air. It invites you and your family to the dinner table. The scent of a hearty ham dish brings back memories of family gatherings and simple meals shared together.

In this collection of 15 easy ham recipes, we’ve gathered delicious dinner options. These dishes range from classic glazed hams to comforting casseroles. They cater to every taste, from a juicy spiral ham to a creamy ham and potato bake.

These recipes are great for feeding a crowd. They’re perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or cozy weeknights. So, put on your apron, preheat your oven, and start cooking these 15 easy ham recipes for dinner.

Try a honey-baked ham for a taste of the South or a ham casserole for a versatile dish. Your taste buds will thank you.

15 Easy Ham Recipes for Dinner You’ll Love Tonight

Why Ham is the Perfect Centerpiece for Your Family Dinner

Planning a family dinner? Ham is the perfect choice. It’s versatile and full of flavor. You can cook it in many ways to please everyone.

Understanding Different Types of Ham

Let’s look at the main types of ham you’ll find. Fully-cooked ham, fresh ham, and country ham each have their own traits. Spiral-cut ham is easy to slice, while bone-in hams are juicier and tastier.

Benefits of Cooking with Ham

Adding ham to your dinner menu has many benefits. It tastes great and can feed a lot of people. Plus, it’s easy to reheat and can be used in many dishes.

“This smoked ham recipe has lots of hickory flavor and is finished with a sweet, spicy glaze. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts.”

Choose from spiral-cut, smoked, or bone-in ham. This protein will surely impress your family and become a favorite.

Classic Glazed Ham Recipes for Dinner

Creating a stunning centerpiece for your family dinner is easy with a glazed ham. The honey baked ham, pineapple ham glaze, and apricot glazed ham are all crowd-pleasers. They will make your dinner unforgettable.

These recipes use a sweet and savory glaze that pairs well with the ham’s salty taste. Glazed hams are perfect for holidays and special events. But they’re also great for a delicious dinner any day.

To make a perfect glazed ham, use a 15 to 18 pound bone-in ham. Bake it for 2 to 2 1/2 hours before adding the glaze. The glaze is made from brown sugar, mustard, and soda. Glaze the ham every 20 minutes for a shiny finish.

RecipeYieldPrep TimeCook TimeTotal Time
Honey Baked Ham18 servings20 minutes3 hours3 hours 20 minutes
Pineapple Ham Glaze18 servings20 minutes3 hours3 hours 20 minutes
Apricot Glazed Ham18 servings20 minutes3 hours3 hours 20 minutes
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After the ham is glazed and cooked, let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, slice and serve. Remember, the bone is great for making ham stock or adding flavor to other dishes. Enjoy your glazed ham as the star of your family dinner!

Quick and Easy Ham and Potato Combinations

Ham and potato dishes are a comforting choice for dinner. They include creamy scalloped potatoes with ham and hearty ham and potato soup. These quick and easy meals are sure to please everyone.

Scalloped Potatoes with Ham

This classic dish layers potatoes, diced ham, and creamy cheese sauce. It only takes 10 minutes to prepare. It uses leftover ham and simple ingredients like milk, flour, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden. Serve with a side salad or buttery biscuits for a complete meal.

Ham and Potato Soup Variations

  • Creamy Ham and Potato Soup: This soup is simmered in a rich, creamy broth. It combines diced ham, Russet potatoes, onions, and a touch of cream for a comforting meal.
  • Ham and Potato Chowder: This chowder is chunky and satisfying. It features tender potatoes, diced ham, and a blend of vegetables in a thick, flavorful broth.
  • Ham and Potato Minestrone: For a more veggie-forward option, this minestrone-style soup incorporates ham, potatoes, and a variety of fresh vegetables in a tomato-based broth.

One-Pot Ham and Potato Meals

One-pot ham and potato dishes are perfect for busy nights. Just combine diced ham, sliced potatoes, and your choice of vegetables in a single pot or casserole dish. Then, bake or simmer until everything is tender and cooked through.

These one-dish wonders are great for weeknights. They often use leftover ham, making them economical and delicious.

Delicious Ham Casserole Recipes

Elevate your dinner with the comforting flavors of ham casseroles. These versatile dishes are perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. They’re great for weeknight meals or special occasions. From classic ham and cheese casseroles to hearty ham and pasta bakes, there’s a recipe for every taste.

The Ham and Broccoli Casserole is a standout. It combines tender ham with fresh broccoli, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping. This dish serves 8-10 people and is ready in 30 minutes, with a total cooking time of 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The Ham and Potato Casserole is another delightful choice. It’s a comforting mix of diced ham, cubed potatoes, and savory cheese sauce. You’ll need 2 cups of cubed ham or half a pound of deli ham. Serve it with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

For a breakfast twist, try the Ham and Egg Casserole. It has fluffy scrambled eggs, diced ham, and cheese, all baked in a casserole. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or a weekend brunch.

No matter which ham casserole you choose, you’ll enjoy rich flavors and satisfying textures. Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious dinner. Your family will love it.

Ham Recipes for Dinner That Will Feed a Crowd

Ham is a great choice for feeding a lot of people. It’s versatile and tastes great, making it perfect for big gatherings. Whether it’s a holiday or a family reunion, these ham recipes will make sure everyone gets enough to eat.

Large-Batch Cooking Tips

For a crowd, pick a big ham, at least 10-12 pounds. This size ensures everyone gets a good serving. Use a slow cooker or roasting pan to make cooking easier and free up your oven.

Make-Ahead Options

Make some dishes ahead of time to save yourself stress. Casseroles, soups, and sandwich fillings can all be made early and reheated. This saves time and makes the food taste even better.

With these tips, you can make a fantastic ham feast that everyone will love. From glazed hams to ham and bean soup, there are many delicious options for ham recipes for large groups and make-ahead ham dishes.

DishServing SizePrep TimeCook Time
Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze12-15 servings20 minutes2-3 hours
Ham and Bean Soup8-10 servings30 minutes4 hours
Ham and Cheese Sliders24 sliders15 minutes30 minutes

Slow Cooker Ham Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Slow cooker ham recipes are a big help on busy weeknights. They’re easy to make and taste great. You can enjoy ham with little effort, thanks to these recipes.

Slow cooker ham is very flexible. You can use different types of ham, like bone-in or boneless. Just pick a size that fits your slow cooker, usually 7 to 8 pounds. This way, the ham cooks well and stays moist.

Flavoring your slow cooker ham is fun. You can use glazes like brown sugar, honey, or pineapple juice. Try other juices like apple cider or orange for something different. These sauces make the ham taste amazing and create a tasty sauce for your meal.

Pair your slow cooker ham with dishes like scalloped potatoes or ham and potato soup. These pairings make your meal complete and satisfying. They highlight the tender, flavorful ham.

Slow cooker ham recipes are perfect for any family dinner. They’re easy to prepare and cook without much effort. So, try these Crock Pot ham recipes and slow cooker ham and beans for a delicious weeknight meal.

Creative Ham and Pasta Dishes

Ham and pasta together make a tasty mix that impresses everyone. You can find creamy ham pasta or baked ham pasta casseroles. These recipes are great for using up leftover ham.

Creamy Ham Pasta Options

Try ham pasta recipes with rich sauces like Alfredo or cheesy ones. They often add veggies like peas or broccoli. The creamy sauce and salty ham taste amazing together.

Baked Ham Pasta Casseroles

Ham pasta bake recipes are perfect for comfort food. They’re easy to make ahead of time. These casseroles mix ham, pasta, cheese, veggies, and seasonings for a delicious dinner.

Looking for creamy ham pasta or a baked ham pasta casserole? These recipes will make your meals special. They show how versatile ham can be in pasta dishes.

RecipePrep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeIngredients
Creamy Ham and Tortellini10 minutes20 minutes30 minutes1 bag frozen cheese tortellini (19 oz) 1 small onion 2 cloves crushed garlic 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham 4 cups chicken stock 1 cup half and half 1 1/2 cup shredded cheese 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 small bag frozen peas

The creamy ham and tortellini recipe is a tasty one-pot meal. It uses ham, cheese, and pasta. You can use sharp white cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. It also suggests using different pasta or cheese blends for variations.

Southern-Style Ham Recipes

Dive into the rich culinary traditions of the American South with these Southern-style ham recipes. You’ll find everything from the iconic country ham to the bold red-eye gravy. These dishes highlight the South’s love for pork.

Southern ham recipes often use cured and smoked country ham. This gives them a deep, savory taste. Serve these hams with Southern classics like creamy grits, collard greens, and buttery biscuits. The red-eye gravy, made with ham drippings and black coffee, adds a unique flavor to your meal.

Try your hand at Southern classics like ham biscuits, ham and eggs, or ham with hoppin’ John. These dishes not only fill your belly but also celebrate the South’s vibrant food culture. Enjoy the bold flavors and hearty portions for a satisfying meal.

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Easy Crab Brulee Recipe: Creamy Seafood Delight2

Easy Crab Brulee Recipe: A Creamy Seafood Delight Perfect for Any Occasion

Imagine the sound of caramelized sugar cracking. It’s a tap-tap-tap that opens up a world of creamy, savory flavors. The first time I made crab brulee, it reminded me of family gatherings. Seafood was the star, and laughter filled the air.

This crab brulee recipe is a fancy twist on crème brûlée. It combines crab meat’s sweetness with a silky custard. It’s perfect for any special occasion.

Want to wow your guests or treat yourself? This crab brulee tutorial is here to guide you. It adds cognac for depth and a caramelized sugar crust for crunch. This dish is sure to be a memorable experience.

Let’s start this culinary journey together. We’ll make a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Every bite will tell a story of refinement and warmth.

Introduction to Crab Brulee

Crab Brulee is a dish that combines the creamy texture of crème brûlée with the savory taste of crab. It’s a sophisticated treat that’s easy to make. The caramelized sugar on top adds a delightful crunch.

This dish brings a luxurious touch to any meal with its sweet and buttery crab flavor. The crab meat’s tenderness pairs well with the creamy base. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère cheese adds depth.

Making this crab brulee is surprisingly easy. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the custard for 30 to 35 minutes.

To get that perfect brûlée crunch, use a kitchen torch or broil for 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial for the dish’s texture.

ServingsPreparation TimeCooking TimeCalories per ServingAlternative Cheese ToppingsSuggested Beverage Pairing
4-6 portions30 minutes20 minutesApprox. 350 kcalParmesan, GruyèreSparkling apple cider, Non-alcoholic ginger beer

For the perfect consistency, whisk the custard base well. Using a water bath helps with even cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also enhance the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Crab Brulee

Crab Brulee is a mix of creamy dessert and fresh crab’s sweetness. It’s a luxurious yet easy dish to make.

Unique Twist on a Classic Dessert

This dish is a twist on the classic brulee. It combines crab’s sweetness with a rich custard. Each bite is a mix of flavors, from crab meat to caramelized sugar.

Simple Yet Gourmet

This crab brulee is surprisingly easy to make. It needs just nine ingredients and simple steps. You can bake it at 300°F for about an hour. It’s perfect for any occasion.

NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
Calories536
Carbohydrates74g27%
Protein30g30%
Fat75g75%
Saturated Fat188%188%
Cholesterol132%132%
Sodium30%30%
Vitamin A42%42%

Ingredients Needed for Crab Brulee Recipe

To make a delicious savory crab brulee, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. This dish combines crab meat with a creamy custard and just the right seasonings. Let’s look at the key ingredients for this gourmet crab brulee.

Fresh Crab Meat

For a gourmet crab brulee, you must use fresh crab meat. Choose from Blue crab, Dungeness crab, or King Crab. You’ll need about 150 grams (1 cup) of fresh lump crab meat. This ensures the seafood brulee dish is both tasty and luxurious.

Custard Mixture

The custard is the heart of your savory crab brulee. It’s creamy and contrasts well with the crab meat. Here are the main ingredients for the custard:

  • 400 ml of heavy cream or half-and-half for a rich texture.
  • 2 large egg yolks and 1 whole egg for richness.
  • A bit of cognac or brandy to enhance the flavors.

Seasonings and Toppings

Seasonings add depth and aroma, while toppings create a nice contrast. Consider these options:

  • Salt, white pepper, and nutmeg for a balanced flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for extra umami.
  • Optional seasonings like Worcestershire sauce or paprika for more flavor.
  • 2–3 tablespoons of granulated sugar or light brown sugar for the crust.
  • Fresh chives or herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon as garnishes.

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients and their amounts for your gourmet crab brulee:

IngredientQuantity
Fresh lump crab meat150 grams (1 cup)
Heavy cream (or half-and-half)400 ml
Egg yolks2 large
Whole egg1 large
Parmesan cheese, grated2 tablespoons
Chives1 tablespoon
Salt and pepperTo taste
Granulated sugar or light brown sugar2–3 tablespoons
Optional Worcestershire or paprikaTo taste

How to Make Crab Brulee

Making crab brulee at home is easy and can feel like a gourmet experience. These simple steps will help you make a dish that rivals restaurants. You’ll learn how to make crab brulee with a delicious caramelized top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients: You’ll need 150 grams of crab meat, 400 ml of single cream, 2 large egg yolks, 1 whole egg, 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped pickled ginger, 1 clove finely chopped garlic, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Make the Custard Base: Whisk 2 egg yolks, 1 whole egg, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add the single cream slowly while whisking.
  3. Infuse and Combine: Mix in the garlic, pickled ginger, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to blend the flavors.
  4. Prepare the Crab: Gently fold the crab meat into the custard. Make sure it’s evenly distributed without breaking the crab lumps.
  5. Preheat and Fill: Heat your oven to 300℉ (150℃). Pour the mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water halfway up the ramekins.
  6. Bake: Bake for 45-60 minutes until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and cool.
  7. Caramelize: Sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of sugar on top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden and crisp.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Prevent Curdling: Bake at a low temperature of 300℉ to avoid curdling. High oven temperatures can cause the eggs to overcook and curdle the custard.
  • Even Baking: Use a water bath to distribute heat evenly. This is key for the best crab brulee recipe.
  • Caramelized Top: For a perfect caramelized sugar top, use fine granulated sugar and a kitchen torch. Make sure to wipe off any moisture before sprinkling sugar for a crisp finish.
RecipeServing SizePrep TimeCalories per Serving
Crab Crème Brûlée4 people1 hour 15 minutes674 kcal
Lobster Corn Crème Brûlée6 people1 hour 10 minutes568 kcal

These easy crab brulee instructions will help you make a delicious and impressive dish. Try this best crab brulee recipe and enjoy the creamy, savory treat.

Serving Suggestions for Crab Brulee

After mastering the delicious crab brulee tutorial and creating your own irresistible crab brulee dish, it’s time to consider the perfect serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience. Here are some optimal pairings to complement your homemade crab brulee:

Pairing with Side Dishes

The richness of crab brulee pairs excellently with simple side dishes. Try serving it with crusty bread for a satisfying crunch. Fresh salads, like arugula or spinach, add a refreshing element that balances the savory flavors of crab. These pairings ensure that the crab brulee remains the star of the meal without overwhelming your palate.

Beverage Pairings

Choosing the right beverage can enhance the flavors of your homemade crab brulee. Crisp white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc are excellent options. Their acidity cuts through the creaminess of the dish, creating a harmonious balance. For a touch of celebration, consider serving with sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco. These light and refreshing beverages add an elegant touch, making each bite of your irresistible crab brulee dish even more delightful.

DishRecommended Pairing
Homemade Crab BruleeCrusty Bread
Irresistible Crab Brulee DishFresh Salad
Delicious Crab Brulee TutorialChardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
Champagne or Prosecco

Alternative Ingredients

Trying out different ingredients can make your crab brulee even better. You can add new tastes, textures, and smells. This lets you make a seafood brulee that’s just right for you.

Cheese Varieties

Changing the cheese can really change how your crab brulee tastes. While Parmesan is common, other cheeses can surprise you:

  • Gruyère: It’s creamy, nutty, and a bit sweet.
  • Cheddar: It’s sharp and tangy, which goes well with crab.
  • Fontina: It’s buttery and mild, for a softer taste.

Herb Substitutions

Fresh herbs can make your crab brulee fresh and exciting. While parsley and chives are usual, try these:

  • Dill: It’s great with seafood, with a hint of anise.
  • Tarragon: It adds a licorice flavor, making it more complex.
  • Thyme: It brings an earthy and aromatic flavor.

Here’s a quick guide to substitutes:

IngredientAlternativeBenefits
ParmesanGruyère, CheddarRichness, Depth of flavor
ParsleyDill, TarragonFreshness, Enhanced aroma

Using these alternatives makes your seafood brulee flexible and customizable. It’s perfect for creating a gourmet crab brulee that’s just what you like.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Crab Brulee

Making the best crab brulee recipe needs careful attention. We’ll share tips to make your homemade crab brulee perfect every time. These include handling eggs and cream and baking in a water bath. These steps are key for a silky and flavorful dish.

Eggs and Cream Tips

Ensuring your eggs and cream are just right is crucial. Use fresh, high-quality eggs and single cream for the best taste. Here are some detailed tips:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your large egg yolks (2) and whole eggs (1) are at room temperature. This helps them mix smoothly into the custard.
  • Scalding the Cream: Heat the 400 ml of single cream just before boiling, known as scalding. This step makes the texture smoother and prevents curdling.
  • Whisking: Whip the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale, fluffy, and thickened—a process that can take a few minutes.
  • Tempering: Add small amounts of hot cream to the egg mixture gradually. This tempering method prevents the eggs from scrambling.
  • Removing Air Bubbles: Strain the custard mixture to remove any air bubbles, ensuring a smooth top on your crab brulee.

Using a Water Bath

The water bath is key for homemade crab brulee. It cooks the custard evenly and prevents cracking. Follow these steps for the best results:

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 300℉. Fill your ramekins evenly with the crab custard mixture.
  2. Setting Up the Water Bath: Place the filled ramekins in a baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
  3. Baking: Bake the crab brulee in the center of the oven for 45 to 60 minutes until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the middle.
  4. Cooling: Allow the crab brulee to cool in the water bath for 30 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to reach room temperature before refrigerating.

Remember to chill your crab brulee for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor and texture. When ready to serve, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan on top for added flavor and a touch of elegance. Using these tips will ensure a delicious and impressive crab brulee every time.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Learning how to store and reheat your seafood brulee is key. It keeps the flavor and texture just right. Follow these simple steps to keep your dish fresh and tasty.

First, cover your crab brulee tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for up to two days. This keeps the custard soft and the seafood fresh.

When reheating, don’t use a microwave. It can heat unevenly and ruin the custard. Instead, warm it gently in a low oven. Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the crab brulee in a dish safe for the oven.

For better results, use a water bath to reheat. Put your dish in a bigger pan filled with hot water. This method heats evenly and prevents the custard from breaking. Heat for 10-15 minutes until it’s warm enough.

Here’s a quick table summarizing the key points:

StepInstructions
StorageCover and refrigerate for up to two days
AvoidAvoid reheating in the microwave
Oven ReheatingPreheat oven to 300°F (150°C)
Water BathPlace dish in a water bath and reheat for 10-15 minutes
Final TouchEnsure even heating to preserve custard texture

By following these easy crab brulee instructions, you’ll keep your seafood brulee dish as delicious as when it was first made.

Health Considerations

Enjoying a savory crab brulee is more than just tasting great flavors. It’s also about thinking about your health. This dish is packed with protein and nutrients from fresh crab meat. Crabs like Dungeness, King, and Blue add sweetness and make the dish taste better.

But, the heavy cream and egg yolks in the custard base can make it high in calories and fat. So, if you’re watching your diet, eat this dish in small amounts.

The best crab brulee recipe has a creamy texture thanks to heavy cream. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version. Egg yolks mix with cream to make a rich custard. Aromatics like shallots, garlic, and herbs add depth and flavor.

Cheeses like Gruyère and Parmesan add sweet and umami notes. They balance the crab’s briny sweetness.

When making this gourmet crab brulee, remember to think about dietary concerns. Crab brulee contains shellfish, so it’s not for everyone. Also, some crab species can be toxic. Symptoms can range from mild nausea to severe effects like paralysis or even death.

To stay safe, buy crabs from trusted sources and cook them well. By being mindful of these health tips, you can enjoy your crab brulee with confidence and happiness.

FAQ

What ingredients are necessary for the crab brulee recipe?

You’ll need fresh lump crab meat, egg yolks, and heavy cream. Add a hint of cognac and seasonings like salt, white pepper, and nutmeg. Top it with light brown sugar for the crust.

How can I ensure the custard for my crab brulee doesn’t curdle?

Whisk the egg yolks and cream well to avoid curdling. Baking in a water bath keeps the temperature even. This prevents overheating.

What kind of crab meat is best for crab brulee?

Use fresh lump crab meat for its sweet and tender texture. It pairs well with the creamy custard.

What side dishes pair well with savory crab brulee?

Simple sides like crusty bread and fresh salads balance the richness of crab brulee.

Can I use alternative ingredients in my crab brulee?

Yes, try different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a deeper taste. Add fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique flavor.

What beverages complement crab brulee?

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light cocktail complements the creamy and sweet flavors of crab brulee.

How do I store and reheat leftover crab brulee?

Refrigerate it covered for up to two days. Warm it gently in a low oven or water bath. Avoid microwaving.

Are there health considerations I should be aware of when making crab brulee?

Crab brulee is rich and high in protein and nutrients. But it’s also high in fats and calories. Be cautious if you have dietary restrictions or seafood allergies.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect crab brulee texture?

Keep eggs and cream at room temperature for a smooth mix. Use a water bath to bake for a silky texture.

What is the best method to caramelize the top of the crab brulee?

Sprinkle light brown sugar over the custard. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar evenly.

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