Zesty, savory, and packed with down-home flavor—country ham is the star of any Southern-inspired feast. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or planning a special dinner, these irresistible recipes will transform your kitchen into a haven of hearty goodness. Get ready to explore 20 mouthwatering ways to savor this classic ingredient, from quick weeknight meals to show-stopping centerpieces. Let’s dive in and discover your new favorite dish!
Maple-Glazed Country Ham with Pineapple Salsa
A sweet-savory twist on classic ham, this maple-glazed version with pineapple salsa brings bold flavors to any table. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of smoky ham, sticky glaze, and fresh salsa creates a balanced dish that’s both comforting and vibrant.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 90 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 (3-pound) boneless country ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
– 1/2 red onion, finely diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and place a rack in the middle position.
2. Score the ham’s surface in a 1-inch diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4-inch deep to help the glaze penetrate.
3. Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush half of the glaze evenly over the entire surface.
5. Roast the ham uncovered for 45 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze.
6. Continue roasting for another 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
7. While the ham roasts, dice the pineapple into 1/2-inch pieces for consistent texture in every bite.
8. Combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and kosher salt in a medium bowl.
9. Let the salsa sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.
11. Slice the ham into 1/2-inch thick pieces and serve warm with the pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
The ham emerges tender with a caramelized, sticky-sweet crust that contrasts beautifully with the bright, chunky salsa. Serve it over creamy grits or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a complete meal that balances richness with acidity.
Savory Country Ham and Cheddar Biscuits
Craving a hearty, savory treat that comes together quickly? These country ham and cheddar biscuits deliver rich flavor with minimal fuss. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack.
Serving: 12 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 3/4 cup buttermilk, cold
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 3/4 cup country ham, finely diced
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
3. Add 1/2 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture.
4. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Pour in 3/4 cup cold buttermilk and stir just until the dough begins to come together.
6. Gently fold in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 3/4 cup finely diced country ham. Tip: Work the dough as little as possible to keep the biscuits tender.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
8. Use a 2.5-inch round biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits, pressing straight down without twisting. Tip: Twisting the cutter can seal the edges and prevent proper rising.
9. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Gather the dough scraps, gently pat them together, and cut out more biscuits until all dough is used.
11. Bake the biscuits in the preheated 425°F oven for 13-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top. Tip: For extra color, brush the tops with a little buttermilk before baking.
12. Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
Buttery and flaky, these biscuits feature pockets of salty ham and melted cheddar in every bite. Serve them warm with a pat of butter or split them for a breakfast sandwich with a fried egg. Their sturdy texture also makes them ideal for soaking up gravy or soup.
Country Ham and White Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying meal. Country ham adds smoky depth, while white beans provide creamy texture. This one-pot wonder is perfect for chilly days.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 8 oz diced country ham
– 4 cloves minced garlic
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 (15 oz) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat for 1 minute.
2. Add 1 cup diced yellow onion, 1 cup diced carrots, and 1 cup diced celery to the pot.
3. Sauté vegetables for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent.
4. Add 8 oz diced country ham and 4 cloves minced garlic to the pot.
5. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until garlic is fragrant.
6. Pour in 6 cups chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release browned bits.
7. Add 2 (15 oz) cans white beans, 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
8. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
9. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
11. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
12. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Zesty and savory, this soup features tender beans in a rich, smoky broth. For a creative twist, top with a dollop of sour cream and crusty bread for dipping.
Southern-Style Country Ham and Grits Casserole
Every Southern breakfast table deserves this hearty, comforting casserole. Expect savory ham, creamy grits, and a cheesy, golden-brown top that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Serving: 8 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 lb country ham, diced
– 1 small yellow onion, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water and 1 tsp salt to a boil over high heat.
3. Whisk in 1 cup grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Remove grits from heat and stir in 2 tbsp butter and 1 cup cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb diced ham and 1 diced onion for 5–7 minutes until onion is translucent and ham is lightly browned.
6. In a large bowl, whisk 3 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper until fully combined.
7. Fold the cooked ham mixture and cheese grits into the egg mixture until evenly incorporated.
8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
9. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set when a knife inserted comes out clean.
10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up.
This casserole emerges with a crisp, golden crust giving way to a creamy, savory interior. The salty ham and sharp cheddar meld beautifully with the hearty grits base. Try topping individual servings with a fried egg or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Country Ham-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Nostalgic and savory, these stuffed mushrooms bring Southern charm to your table. Country ham adds salty depth to earthy portobellos, creating a satisfying appetizer or light meal. They’re surprisingly simple to prepare with minimal ingredients.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 large portobello mushroom caps
– 1 cup finely chopped country ham
– 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Clean mushroom caps by wiping with a damp paper towel—avoid soaking them to prevent sogginess.
3. Remove stems and use a spoon to gently scrape out the dark gills from each cap.
4. Brush both sides of each mushroom cap with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Place mushrooms gill-side up on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes to soften.
6. While mushrooms bake, combine country ham, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, black pepper, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
7. Remove mushrooms from oven—they should release liquid and appear slightly shrunken.
8. Carefully drain any accumulated liquid from the mushroom caps using a paper towel.
9. Divide the ham mixture evenly among the four mushroom caps, pressing gently to pack it in.
10. Return stuffed mushrooms to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until the filling is hot and cheese is melted.
11. For a golden top, broil for 1-2 minutes at 500°F, watching closely to prevent burning.
12. Let mushrooms rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Delightfully juicy mushrooms contrast with the crispy, salty ham filling. The sharp cheddar adds a creamy richness that balances the earthiness perfectly. Serve alongside a simple green salad or as an elegant starter for dinner parties.
Country Ham and Red-Eye Gravy Breakfast
Let’s get straight to this Southern classic that turns simple ingredients into a hearty morning feast. Country ham and red-eye gravy is a no-fuss breakfast that packs bold flavor in minutes. You’ll love how the salty ham and rich coffee gravy come together.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 slices country ham (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup strong black coffee
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 4 slices white bread
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles.
2. Place ham slices in the dry skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy at the edges.
3. Transfer ham to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the ham.
5. Pour in coffee and water immediately to deglaze the pan, stirring with a wooden spoon for 1 minute.
6. Add brown sugar and simmer the gravy for 4-5 minutes until reduced by half and slightly thickened.
7. While gravy simmers, toast bread in a toaster or under a broiler until golden brown.
8. In a separate nonstick skillet, fry eggs over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until whites are set but yolks are still runny.
9. Plate each serving with one slice of toast, one slice of ham, and one fried egg.
10. Spoon hot gravy directly over the ham and eggs just before serving.
For a smoky depth, use brewed coffee that’s strong but not bitter. Keep the skillet hot when searing the ham to develop a flavorful crust. Serve immediately so the gravy soaks into the toast while warm. Fried eggs with runny yolks blend perfectly with the salty ham and tangy coffee gravy. Try it over grits instead of toast for a creamier Southern twist.
Country Ham and Swiss Cheese Quiche
Nothing beats a savory quiche for brunch or dinner. This country ham and Swiss cheese version delivers rich flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 9-inch refrigerated pie crust
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup diced country ham
– 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Unroll pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp edges with your fingers.
3. Prick bottom of crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
4. Bake crust for 10 minutes at 375°F until lightly golden. Remove from oven.
5. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Add diced country ham and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned. Tip: Browning the ham enhances its smoky flavor.
7. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until smooth.
8. Whisk in heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until fully combined.
9. Sprinkle half of the Swiss cheese evenly over the pre-baked crust.
10. Spread cooked ham evenly over the cheese layer.
11. Sprinkle remaining Swiss cheese over the ham.
12. Pour egg mixture slowly over the fillings in the crust. Tip: Pouring slowly prevents ingredients from shifting.
13. Bake quiche at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. Tip: The quiche is done when center is set and top is golden brown.
14. Let quiche cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.
Golden and custardy, this quiche has a creamy texture with pockets of salty ham and melted Swiss cheese. Serve warm with a simple green salad for a balanced meal, or slice it cold for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.
Sweet Mustard-Glazed Country Ham
Kick off your weekend with this sweet and savory ham that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The mustard glaze caramelizes into a sticky, flavorful crust while the ham stays juicy inside. It’s a simple centerpiece that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Serving: 8 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 90 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 (8 lb) fully cooked bone-in country ham
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and position a rack in the lower third.
2. Place the ham flat-side down in a large roasting pan.
3. Score the fat on top of the ham in a 1-inch diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, melted butter, and black pepper in a medium bowl.
5. Whisk the glaze mixture vigorously until completely smooth and free of lumps.
6. Brush half of the glaze evenly over the entire surface of the ham, getting into the scored cuts.
7. Pour 2 cups of water into the bottom of the roasting pan to prevent the drippings from burning.
8. Cover the ham and pan tightly with aluminum foil.
9. Bake the covered ham at 325°F for 1 hour.
10. Remove the ham from the oven and carefully take off the foil.
11. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
12. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
13. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes.
14. Check the ham; the glaze should be bubbling and deeply caramelized. If not, bake for 5 more minutes.
15. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes before carving.
A glossy, crackling crust gives way to tender, salty-sweet meat in every slice. Serve it warm with soft dinner rolls to soak up the pan juices, or slice it cold for next-day sandwiches layered with sharp cheddar and pickles.
Grilled Country Ham Steak with Peach Chutney
Ditch the ordinary weeknight dinner with this sweet-savory combo that comes together in under 30 minutes. Grilled ham steak gets a glossy, tangy peach topping for a meal that feels special without the fuss.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 (1-pound) country ham steak, about 3/4-inch thick
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups fresh peaches, pitted and diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
1. Pat the ham steak completely dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
2. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
3. Brush both sides of the ham steak lightly with the olive oil.
4. Place the ham steak on the hot grill and cook for 4 minutes without moving it.
5. Flip the ham steak using tongs and cook for another 4 minutes until grill marks form and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Transfer the cooked ham steak to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest.
7. While the ham rests, combine the diced peaches, chopped red onion, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt in a medium saucepan.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
9. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the chutney for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the peaches soften and the liquid thickens slightly.
10. Slice the rested ham steak against the grain into 1/2-inch strips.
11. Arrange the sliced ham on a serving platter and spoon the warm peach chutney generously over the top.
Perfectly grilled ham provides a salty, smoky base that contrasts beautifully with the chutney’s sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. The peaches soften but keep a pleasant texture, while the ginger and pepper flakes add a subtle kick. Serve it over a bed of creamy grits or with a simple arugula salad to soak up the extra sauce.
Country Ham and Scalloped Potatoes
Delve into a classic comfort dish that layers savory ham with creamy potatoes. This hearty casserole bakes to golden perfection, delivering rich flavors in every bite. It’s an ideal make-ahead meal for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 75 minutes
Ingredients
– 2 pounds russet potatoes
– 1 pound country ham, diced
– 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon butter.
2. Peel and thinly slice potatoes to 1/8-inch thickness using a mandoline for even cooking.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt remaining 3 tablespoons butter and sauté onion for 5 minutes until translucent.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in flour to create a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Layer half the potato slices in the baking dish, followed by half the ham and half the sauce.
8. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce, pressing down gently.
9. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over top, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
11. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
Rich, creamy potatoes meld with salty ham in this satisfying casserole. The cheese forms a crisp crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior. Serve alongside steamed green beans or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Country Ham and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast
Lately, I’ve been craving a hearty, savory dinner that feels special without being fussy. This stuffed chicken breast delivers with salty country ham and fresh spinach tucked inside. It’s a simple, impressive main that comes together quickly for a weeknight or weekend.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped country ham
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped country ham, spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper until well mixed.
3. Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut a horizontal pocket through the thickest side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast evenly with the ham and spinach mixture, pressing gently to close the pocket.
5. Rub the outside of each stuffed breast with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with paprika.
6. Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not touching.
7. Bake at 375°F for 22–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
Succulent and flavorful, the chicken stays moist while the filling melts into a creamy, savory blend. Serve it sliced over a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Crispy Country Ham and Asparagus Tart
Tart lovers, rejoice—this savory delight combines crispy ham and tender asparagus in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch or a light dinner, it’s both elegant and easy to pull together. You’ll love the contrast of textures and salty-sweet flavors.
Serving: 6 | Pre Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 lb country ham, thinly sliced
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Unfold puff pastry on the prepared sheet and prick all over with a fork to prevent puffing.
3. Brush pastry edges with beaten egg to create a golden crust.
4. Layer ham evenly over pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over ham.
6. Toss asparagus with olive oil and black pepper in a bowl.
7. Arrange asparagus spears in a single layer on top of cheese.
8. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, until pastry is golden and asparagus is tender.
9. Let tart cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before slicing.
The tart emerges with a flaky, buttery crust that shatters against the salty ham and creamy cheese. Serve it warm, sliced into squares, alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Leftovers reheat beautifully in a toaster oven for a quick snack.
Country Ham and Apple-Cider Braised Cabbage
Bold flavors meet humble ingredients in this comforting winter dish. Country ham provides savory depth while apple cider adds a subtle sweetness that balances the cabbage perfectly. This one-pot wonder transforms simple components into a memorable meal.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 ounces country ham, diced
– 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 1 head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and sliced into 1-inch strips
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add 4 ounces diced country ham and cook until browned and crispy, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes. Remove ham with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving fat in pot.
3. Add 1 thinly sliced yellow onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add 1 head of sliced green cabbage to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage begins to wilt and edges start to brown slightly, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Pour in 1 cup apple cider and 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
6. Return the browned ham to the pot and add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
7. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid.
8. Braise cabbage for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until cabbage is tender but still has some texture.
9. Remove lid and increase heat to medium. Cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes to reduce liquid slightly until it coats the cabbage.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat.
You’ll find the cabbage becomes meltingly tender while retaining a pleasant bite. The ham infuses every bite with smoky saltiness that contrasts beautifully with the cider’s gentle sweetness. Serve it over creamy polenta or alongside roasted pork for a complete cold-weather feast.
Honey-Bourbon Country Ham with Spiced Apples
You’ll find this honey-bourbon country ham with spiced apples delivers a sweet, smoky, and savory punch that’s perfect for a cozy weekend supper. It’s a straightforward dish that balances rich, salty ham with warm, spiced fruit. Just follow the steps below for a satisfying meal.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 ½ pounds country ham, sliced ¼-inch thick
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 large apples, cored and sliced ½-inch thick
– ¼ cup honey
– ¼ cup bourbon
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt until foamy.
3. Place country ham slices in the skillet in a single layer, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy.
4. Remove ham from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering loosely with foil to keep warm.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 1 tablespoon unsalted butter to the same skillet.
6. Add apple slices to the skillet, cooking for 5–6 minutes until they begin to soften and turn golden, stirring occasionally.
7. Sprinkle ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt over the apples, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Pour honey and bourbon into the skillet, stirring to combine with the apples and spices.
9. Simmer the mixture for 4–5 minutes until the liquid reduces to a syrupy glaze, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
10. Return the cooked ham to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the spiced apple mixture and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
11. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Warm, tender ham pairs with soft, caramelized apples in a glossy, spiced bourbon glaze. The dish offers a contrast of salty and sweet with a hint of smoky depth from the bourbon. Try serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Baked Eggs with Country Ham and Hollandaise
Gather around for a simple yet elegant brunch dish that combines classic flavors with minimal effort. Baked eggs with country ham and hollandaise delivers rich, savory satisfaction in every bite. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend or impressing guests without stress.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
– 4 large eggs
– 4 slices country ham (about 4 oz total)
– 2 egg yolks
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 tbsp chopped chives
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Lightly coat four ramekins with cooking spray.
3. Place one slice of country ham in each ramekin, pressing it to line the bottom.
4. Crack one large egg into each ramekin over the ham.
5. Bake ramekins on a baking sheet for 12–15 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny.
6. While eggs bake, prepare hollandaise: whisk 2 egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper in a heatproof bowl.
7. Place bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom does not touch the water.
8. Whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until yolks thicken slightly.
9. Slowly drizzle in melted butter while whisking continuously to emulsify.
10. Remove hollandaise from heat once thickened and smooth.
11. Take baked eggs out of the oven and let cool for 2 minutes.
12. Spoon hollandaise sauce over each baked egg.
13. Garnish with chopped chives.
Fluffy eggs meld with salty ham under a velvety hollandaise for a luxurious texture. The cayenne adds a subtle kick that balances the richness. Serve atop toasted English muffins or with a side of roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Tantalizing and timeless, these 20 country ham recipes offer a treasure trove of flavor for your table. From cozy breakfasts to hearty dinners, there’s something here to delight every home cook. We’d love to hear which recipes become your favorites—drop a comment below and share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the delicious inspiration!
