Deviled Ham Recipe: Ever tasted something so flavorful and addictive that you couldn’t stop at just one bite? That’s what deviled ham is. This creamy, zesty, savory spread packs a punch and makes the perfect snack, appetizer, or sandwich filler. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, brunch, or just a cozy lunch at home, this homemade deviled ham recipe is your go-to. We’re diving deep into how to make deviled ham from scratch—with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. This isn’t your average store-bought stuff; it’s way better.
So, tie on your apron, and let’s get into the kitchen. We’re about to whip up a deviled ham that’ll make you wonder why you ever bought it in a can.
What Is Deviled Ham?
Deviled ham might sound mysterious, but it’s basically chopped ham that’s been “dressed up” with bold flavors. The term “deviled” in culinary language refers to foods that are spicy or zesty. Think of deviled eggs—but swap the eggs for ham, and you’ve got the idea.
Traditionally, deviled ham is made by mixing cooked or canned ham with mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. The result is a creamy, tangy, spicy spread that’s perfect on crackers, bread, or even lettuce leaves. You can adjust the heat and flavor to suit your taste, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
It’s a classic in Southern kitchens, often found at potlucks, BBQs, and Sunday lunches. But no matter where you’re from, one bite of this savory goodness, and you’ll be hooked.
Why You’ll Love This Deviled Ham Recipe
Let’s be honest—deviled ham doesn’t always get the love it deserves. But that’s about to change. Here’s why this recipe might become your next favorite snack or party spread:
- Quick & Easy – You can whip this up in 10 minutes, tops.
- Budget-Friendly – Use leftover ham or affordable canned ham.
- Super Versatile – Spread it, dip it, stuff it. It goes with everything.
- Customizable – Make it spicy, sweet, or mild. It’s up to you.
- Meal Prep-Friendly – Stores well in the fridge for quick snacks all week.
This recipe is perfect for beginners, pros, and everyone in between. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want something tasty on your toast, this deviled ham fits the bill.
How to Use Deviled Ham
Deviled ham isn’t just a spread—it’s a secret weapon. Here’s how you can make the most out of every delicious spoonful:
- On Sandwiches: Smear it between two slices of bread with lettuce and tomato.
- With Crackers: Perfect as a party appetizer or quick snack.
- Stuffed in Veggies: Fill celery sticks or bell pepper halves for a keto-friendly snack.
- In Wraps: Roll it up in tortillas or lettuce leaves.
- On Toast or English Muffins: Breakfast just got a serious upgrade.
Honestly, once you make this, you’ll be looking for new ways to sneak it into every meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Meat
- 2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped
Leftover spiral ham or deli-style ham works great. You can also use canned ham in a pinch.
Creaminess & Binding Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
Brings that creamy, rich texture. - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Adds a sharp tang and depth of flavor. - 1 tablespoon softened cream cheese (optional but delicious)
Adds an extra silky texture.
Tang & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish or chopped sweet pickles
Adds a subtle sweetness and crunch. - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Boosts umami flavor. - 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
Adds acidity to balance the richness.
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Feel free to add chopped chives, parsley, or hot sauce if you’re feeling extra bold.
Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy gear to make deviled ham, but having the right tools helps:
- Food processor or blender – For smooth texture (a knife and bowl works if you prefer it chunky)
- Measuring spoons & cups – To keep things precise
- Spatula – For mixing and scraping
- Mixing bowl – To combine ingredients
That’s it! Now let’s get to the fun part.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Deviled Ham
Step 1: Prep the Ham
Start by chopping your ham into chunks. If you’re using leftovers, trim any tough or fatty parts. You want about 2 cups of ham total. This is the meaty base of your spread, so choose quality ham if possible—it makes all the difference.
Step 2: Gather and Measure Ingredients
Before you start blending, measure out all your other ingredients. Trust me, this makes everything go smoother and faster. You don’t want to be scrambling for the mustard while your food processor’s running.
Lay out your:
- Mayo
- Mustard
- Pickles
- Vinegar
- Spices
This mise en place (French for “everything in its place”) approach saves time and reduces mess.
Step 3: Blend to Perfection
Toss your chopped ham into the food processor. Add your mayo, mustard, relish, Worcestershire, and spices.
Now pulse! Don’t go full throttle—you want a spread, not baby food. Pulse a few times until it looks creamy with small bits of ham still visible.
If you like it chunky, blend less. If you want it smoother, keep pulsing. You control the texture.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
This is where the magic happens. Take a spoonful and taste. Need more tang? Add mustard. Too dry? Add a little more mayo. Want heat? Dash in some cayenne or hot sauce.
Fine-tuning the flavor is key to getting that bold, crave-worthy deviled ham.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This lets the flavors mingle and settle. It also firms up the spread, making it easier to serve on crackers or bread.
Trust me—it tastes better cold. Worth the wait.
Tips for the Best Deviled Ham
Getting the perfect deviled ham spread isn’t rocket science, but a few smart tips can take yours from good to downright addictive.
- Use Quality Ham: Whether it’s leftover holiday ham, smoked ham, or even canned, the better the ham, the better the final taste. Avoid overly salty varieties or low-quality deli meats.
- Don’t Overprocess: You want texture! Over-blending will turn your deviled ham into a paste. Pulse just enough to combine everything while keeping some tiny ham bits intact.
- Balance the Flavors: Deviled ham is all about that balance between creamy, tangy, salty, and spicy. Don’t skip the vinegar or mustard—they brighten up the rich mayo and ham.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the deviled ham to chill helps the flavors blend. An hour in the fridge works wonders, but even 20–30 minutes will improve it.
- Add Crunch Before Serving: If you like a little texture, add fresh chopped celery or pickles just before serving. That crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
- Customize It: This is your spread—don’t be afraid to add your twist. Try fresh herbs, spicy mustard, or a dash of hot sauce to make it your own.
With just a few tweaks, you can turn this simple spread into something people will beg you to bring to every party.
How to Store Deviled Ham
Made a big batch? No worries—deviled ham stores like a champ.
Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store your deviled ham in an airtight container. It will last for up to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s well sealed to avoid any odors from affecting the taste.
- Avoid Double Dipping: If you’re serving this as a dip, portion some out into a separate bowl. This helps extend shelf life and keep the spread clean.
- Glass or BPA-Free Plastic Containers: These are ideal for storing. They seal tightly and help keep your spread fresh and flavorful.
Before serving again, give it a quick stir and taste. If it seems dry, a teaspoon of mayo can help bring it back to life.
Can You Freeze Deviled Ham?
Yes—you can freeze deviled ham, but let’s be real—it’s better fresh. Freezing can slightly change the texture, especially if you used mayo or cream cheese, which don’t always freeze well.
If you decide to freeze it:
- Portion It First: Scoop the deviled ham into smaller freezer-safe containers or use ice cube trays to freeze individual servings.
- Label and Date: Always label your containers with the date so you don’t forget how long it’s been in the freezer.
- Use Within 2 Months: For the best flavor and texture, consume frozen deviled ham within 1–2 months.
- Thaw in Fridge: Let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator—not on the counter—for food safety.
After thawing, give it a good stir and taste test. If the texture is off, a little fresh mayo or mustard can help bring it back to life.
Variations of Deviled Ham
One of the best things about deviled ham? It’s a canvas. You can mix it up depending on your mood, your guests, or what’s in the fridge. Here are some killer variations:
Spicy Deviled Ham
Love a little heat? Turn up the spice:
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce
- Mix in some jalapeños or crushed red pepper
- Swap regular mustard for spicy brown mustard or Sriracha mayo
Sweet & Tangy Version
For a milder, slightly sweet spread:
- Use honey mustard instead of Dijon
- Add a teaspoon of brown sugar
- Include finely chopped apples or pineapple tidbits
Southern-Style Deviled Ham
Give it a down-home feel:
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs
- Use yellow mustard and dill relish
- Include a bit of pimento cheese for that classic Southern twist
Whether you’re into spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a deviled ham version out there for you.
Deviled Ham vs. Ham Salad – What’s the Difference?
This is a common question. They look similar, taste somewhat alike, and are made with ham—so what’s the real difference?
Texture & Consistency
- Deviled Ham: Typically smoother and creamier, almost like a pâté or spread.
- Ham Salad: Chunkier with visible bits of ham, often mixed with celery, onion, and sometimes egg.
Flavor Profile
- Deviled Ham: Bolder, tangier, and often spicier thanks to mustard, cayenne, and Worcestershire.
- Ham Salad: Milder, often sweet, and more like a traditional deli salad.
Usage
- Deviled Ham: Ideal as a spread or dip.
- Ham Salad: Great as a sandwich filling or side dish.
In short: Deviled ham is the sassier, spicier cousin of ham salad.
What to Serve with Deviled Ham
Deviled ham is super versatile—it pairs well with so many foods. Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:
Sandwich Ideas
- Classic Sandwich: Just spread on white or whole wheat bread with lettuce.
- Deviled Ham Sliders: Use mini buns, pickles, and maybe a touch of coleslaw.
- Grilled Deviled Ham Melt: Toasted bread + cheese = heaven.
Cracker Pairings
- Butter Crackers: Rich and flaky, these complement the tangy ham beautifully.
- Whole Wheat or Multigrain Crackers: Add some crunch and fiber.
- Crostini or Toast Points: Fancy it up for a party.
Lettuce Wraps
If you’re watching carbs, scoop deviled ham into romaine hearts or butter lettuce leaves. Add a sprinkle of paprika and you’ve got a light, refreshing snack or lunch.
Bonus: It also works great in stuffed tomatoes, bagels, or even inside puff pastry for bite-sized party treats.
Is Deviled Ham Healthy?
It depends on how you make it. Traditional deviled ham is rich and satisfying—but with a few tweaks, you can make it healthier.
Healthier Tips:
- Use Lean Ham: Trim fat or choose lean deli ham.
- Swap Mayonnaise: Try Greek yogurt or light mayo.
- Add Veggies: Mix in shredded carrots, celery, or spinach.
- Control the Salt: Watch out if your ham is salty—go easy on additional seasonings.
Nutritional Facts (Per 2 Tbsp Serving – approx):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120–150 |
| Protein | 6–8g |
| Fat | 10–12g |
| Carbohydrates | 1–3g |
| Sodium | 250–400mg |
So yes, it’s a treat—but with portion control and smart choices, it can be part of a balanced meal.
FAQs about Deviled Ham Recipe
1. What kind of ham works best?
Leftover cooked ham, smoked ham, or even canned ham will work. Just make sure it’s not overly salty.
2. Can I make deviled ham without mayonnaise?
Yes! Use Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or even hummus as a mayo substitute for a healthier twist.
3. How long does homemade deviled ham last?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
4. Is deviled ham safe for kids?
Absolutely. Just reduce or skip the spicy ingredients like cayenne or hot sauce for a kid-friendly version.
5. Can I use canned ham for this recipe?
Yes, canned ham works just fine. Drain it well and give it a taste before adding salt—canned ham can be saltier than fresh.
Conclusion
Deviled ham is proof that something old-school can still totally slay in today’s kitchen. It’s creamy, tangy, rich, and incredibly easy to make. You don’t need a culinary degree to whip it up—just a few ingredients and a good appetite.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, packing lunch, entertaining friends, or just craving something savory, this spread delivers every time. Go ahead, make a big batch—you’ll thank yourself later.
So, next time you’re wondering what to do with leftover ham or looking for a killer dip idea, this deviled ham recipe’s got your back.
