Creamed Ham
Creamed Ham is a rich, cheesy dish combining cooked ham, cheddar, peas, and pimiento in a smooth sauce, perfect for hearty comfort food served on toast, rice, or potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt oleo in a saucepan, add flour, and blend well.
- Slowly add milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add diced cooked ham, cheddar cheese, diced eggs, pimiento, and drained peas.
- Cook until slightly thickened and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot on toast, rice, or potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the dish, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or mustard for extra flavor. If you don't have oleo, butter can be used as a substitute. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. You can also swap the Cheddar for your favorite cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, to create a unique twist. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed ham is delicious served hot over buttered toast, rice, or even baked potatoes. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It also complements well with hearty sides like mashed potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a delightful brunch, serve alongside a fruit salad or pastries, making it a great addition to any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for extended periods to prevent the sauce from separating. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Ham contains roughly 846 calories, with 24g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 680mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cooked ham with turkey, chicken, or even leftover roast beef. Just ensure that the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce. This recipe is quite versatile, allowing you to use whatever protein you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed ham mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite vegetables. You could also add cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein. This way, you can enjoy a creamy, flavorful dish that's still satisfying and hearty.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).