A Smart Way to Use Leftover Leftover Ham and Onions

Transform yesterday's ham into something comforting and complete with nothing more than rice and caramelized onions.

Leftover ham doesn't have to feel like a second thought. When you pair it with rice and onions, you've got the bones of something genuinely good—a one-pan meal that tastes purposeful rather than salvaged. The ham brings salt and depth, the onions add sweetness and body, and the rice ties everything together into something warm and satisfying.

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Ham and Onion Fried Rice

Total Time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

A quick and satisfying fried rice that transforms leftover ham and onions into a delicious one-pan meal. Perfect for lunch or a simple dinner.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
1 cup leftover ham, diced
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (optional)
1/2 teaspoon white pepper

Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Push the onion mixture to the side and add the remaining oil. Pour in beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through, about 2 minutes. Mix with the onions.
Add the diced ham and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Add the chilled rice, breaking up any clumps, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt, pepper, and white pepper. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve immediately.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Use brown rice or a mix of white and wild rice for more texture and nutrition. Keep the ham modest and let the caramelized onions be the star, finishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Hearty Option

Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of cream or broth near the end, or add a fried egg on top for richness. A generous amount of ham and butter-cooked onions will make this feel like dinner without apology.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Skip the ham and build the dish around deeply caramelized onions, mushrooms, and a good stock. You'll get similar umami depth and won't miss the meat.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Smoked turkey or chicken
Bacon or pancetta
Sautéed mushrooms (for vegetarian versions)
Smoked sausage
Diced chicken thighs

Carb Substitutes

Farro or barley
Couscous
Polenta
Quinoa
Mashed or roasted potatoes

Flavor Boosters

A pinch of smoked paprika
Fresh thyme or bay leaf while cooking
A splash of vinegar (apple cider or white) for brightness
Garlic or shallots alongside the onions
Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat
Soy sauce or miso for extra savory depth

Common Questions

How long does leftover ham stay good in the fridge?

Properly stored ham keeps for 3–5 days. If you're unsure, it's better to freeze it and use it within a month. Always store it in an airtight container.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, this dish actually improves with time as flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days, and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

What's the best way to caramelize onions for this?

Slice them thin, cook them low and slow in butter or oil for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don't rush it—caramelization is where the magic happens and where you'll get the most flavor from your onions.

Should I use white rice, brown rice, or something else?

Any rice works, but white rice is quickest and most forgiving. Brown rice and wild rice add nuttiness and texture if you have the time and liquid to cook them through.