Best Ham Salad Recipe: Creamy, Classic & Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover ham, this ham salad recipe is the perfect solution. It’s creamy, tangy, and endlessly customizable ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or wraps. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best ham salad recipe, explore creative variations, and get pro tips for storing and serving.

With roots in traditional American kitchens, ham salad is similar in style to chicken or tuna salad but boasts a distinctive smoky and savory flavor thanks to the diced or minced ham base.

Related: Classic ham salad spread recipe – a helpful reference to compare regional flavors.

Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch or planning appetizers for a party, this guide covers every angle. You’ll also find expert advice on making it healthier or adjusting it to fit your taste preferences. For some nutrition tips, see this resource on healthy protein spreads.

**What Is Ham Salad?**

Ham salad is a cold dish made from finely chopped or ground ham mixed with a creamy binder like mayonnaise, along with crunchy or tangy mix-ins like pickles, onions, or celery. It can be served:

In sandwiches
As a cracker spread
On lettuce wraps
Stuffed in vegetables

It’s traditionally enjoyed in Southern and Midwestern U.S. households, especially as a post-holiday dish made from leftover baked or smoked ham.

Ingredients for the Classic Ham Salad Recipe

Here are the standard ingredients for making a traditional ham salad:

2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped or processed
⅓ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt as a healthy alternative)
¼ cup diced celery
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (or dill relish for a tangier kick)
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ham Salad Recipe (3) — “Classic creamy ham salad with celery and pickles served in a sandwich”

Optional Add-ins:

Chopped hard-boiled egg
Shredded cheese
Chopped fresh parsley or dill
A pinch of paprika for color and flavor

**How to Make Ham Salad Step-by-Step**

Prep the Ham
Use a food processor for a smooth texture, or finely dice with a knife for chunkier salad.
Mix the Base Ingredients
Combine the ham, mayonnaise, celery, relish, onion, and mustard in a mixing bowl.
Season and Chill
Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

**Popular Ham Salad Variations**

There are several ways to make this recipe your own:

Deviled Ham Salad
Add hot sauce, spicy brown mustard, or cayenne for heat.
Ham Salad with Egg
Mix in 1–2 finely chopped hard-boiled eggs for added protein.
Sweet and Savory Combo
Toss in diced apples, crushed pineapple, or raisins.
Cheesy Ham Salad
Mix in grated cheddar or Swiss for a richer version.
Southern Style
Use pimentos, chopped pickles, and serve with saltine crackers.

Serving Ideas for Ham Salad

This versatile dish can be served in many delicious ways:

On white, whole wheat, or croissant bread for sandwiches
Spoon into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a low-carb meal
Scoop onto lettuce leaves or salad greens for a light lunch
Spread on crackers or toast points for appetizers

Pro Tip: Add sliced cucumbers or radishes for crunch and contrast.

Storing Your Ham Salad

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Avoid freezing—it affects the texture and emulsification.
Stir well before serving leftovers, as moisture can separate.

Nutritional Profile (Per Serving)

Calories: ~250
Protein: ~12g
Fat: ~20g
Carbohydrates: ~3–5g

Make It Healthier:

Use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Add more veggies like bell peppers or shredded carrots.
Opt for low-sodium ham to reduce salt content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the ingredients to ham salad?

Typical ingredients include:

Cooked ham (finely chopped)
Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
Celery and onion
Pickles or relish
Optional: mustard, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and seasonings

What is the difference between deviled ham and ham salad?

Deviled ham is a spicier, smoother spread often made by blending ham with mustard, hot sauce, and spices. Ham salad is chunkier, includes vegetables like celery or onion, and has a milder, creamier taste.

Is ham salad a Midwestern thing?

Yes, ham salad is considered a traditional Midwestern dish, though it’s also popular in the South. It’s often served at church gatherings, potlucks, and family events.

How long is ham salad good for in the fridge?

Ham salad lasts about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Why is it called deviled ham?

“Deviled” refers to the addition of spicy or zesty seasonings like mustard or hot sauce. The term dates back to the 18th century.

What is the tastiest cut of ham?

Bone-in ham (like a spiral-cut or shank portion) is often considered the most flavorful due to its fat content and moisture.

Is ham healthy?

In moderation, yes. It provides protein and B vitamins, but can be high in sodium and preservatives. Look for low-sodium or nitrate-free options for a healthier choice.

Where is the best ham in the world?

Many consider Jamon Ibérico from Spain or Prosciutto di Parma from Italy the best. These are dry-cured, artisan hams known for their rich flavor.

How to make good ham?

Start with a quality cut and bake it low and slow. Use a glaze (honey, brown sugar, mustard) for flavor, and don’t overcook to retain moisture.

How to make deviled ham?

Blend ham, mayonnaise, mustard, hot sauce, and spices like paprika until smooth. It’s typically used as a sandwich spread or dip.

Why is ham not called pork?

Ham is a specific cut of pork (from the pig’s hind leg). While all ham is pork, not all pork is ham—“pork” refers to any meat from a pig.

What do Christians call deviled eggs?

Many Christians still use the term deviled eggs, though some prefer alternative names like “stuffed eggs” or “angel eggs” at religious gatherings to avoid the term “deviled.”

Conclusion

Whether you’re trying to use up leftover holiday ham or you’re just in the mood for something nostalgic and satisfying, ham salad is a timeless recipe that delivers flavor, texture, and versatility in every bite. Its creamy base, combined with the savory richness of ham and the crunch of fresh vegetables, makes it a reliable go-to for quick lunches, family potlucks, or easy meal prepping. Best of all, it’s endlessly customizable—you can make it spicy, sweet, tangy, or low-fat depending on what you like or what ingredients you have on hand.

One of the biggest advantages of ham salad is how adaptable it is to dietary preferences. By swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or adding more veggies, you can create a lighter version without sacrificing taste. You can also tailor it to serve a variety of occasions—sandwiches for lunchboxes, spreads for crackers at parties, or scoops served on top of crisp lettuce for a low-carb dinner.

What makes ham salad such a valuable recipe is its combination of comfort and convenience. It’s quick to prepare, ideal for make-ahead meals, and easily adjusted to fit your personal flavor profile. Even better, it stores well for several days in the fridge, making it perfect for busy weeks when you want something ready to go.

So next time you have leftover ham or just want a change from the usual sandwich fillers, give ham salad a try. You may just find it becomes a permanent part of your recipe rotation.