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Classic Creamy Ham Salad

Creamy, savory, and loaded with chunks of smoky ham, this classic spread transforms leftover holiday ham into something spectacular. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or stuffed in tomatoes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 245
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound cooked ham cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 stalks celery finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons red onion minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Food processor or meat grinder
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Airtight storage container

Method
 

  1. Cut your cooked ham into roughly one inch chunks, removing any excess fat or rind.
  2. Add the ham chunks to your food processor and pulse until you reach your desired texture. A medium grind with some larger pieces remaining works best for texture.
  3. Finely dice your celery and mince the red onion while the ham sits.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, and lemon juice until well combined.
  5. Add the ground ham, diced celery, and minced red onion to the bowl with the creamy mixture. Fold everything together gently using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed.
  6. Add the black pepper and paprika, then taste and adjust the seasoning. Go easy on additional salt since ham is already quite salty.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Give the ham salad one final stir and taste again after chilling. Adjust mayo or seasonings if needed, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite bread or crackers.

Notes

For the best texture, chill your ham in the freezer for 15 minutes before grinding. Slightly firm ham processes more cleanly and gives you better control over the final consistency. The salad stores beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days and actually improves with time as the flavors meld together.