Deviled Ham Salad

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Deviled Ham Salad – A Zesty, Creamy Spread with a Southern Twist

Deviled Ham Salad is a timeless American classic that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, tangy, and satisfying dish. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps, this creamy ham salad blends savory ham with spicy mustard, tangy relish, and a touch of creamy mayo. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or canned deviled ham, this recipe is an easy way to make a quick lunch or snack that packs a punch of flavor.

🧂 What Is Deviled Ham Salad?

Deviled Ham Salad is a creamy, slightly spicy spread made by blending finely chopped or ground ham with mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and seasonings. The term “deviled” refers to the addition of bold and spicy ingredients like mustard, hot sauce, or paprika, which give the salad its signature tangy bite. It’s a cousin to classic chicken or tuna salad—but with a deeper, smoky flavor from the ham.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own homemade Deviled Ham Salad:

2 cups cooked ham, finely chopped or ground
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard, for a milder flavor)
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish (or dill relish, for tanginess)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for spice lovers)
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion (optional, for crunch and sharpness)
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

🍽️ Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Start by finely chopping or grinding your cooked ham. You can use a food processor for convenience—just pulse the ham a few times until it’s coarsely ground, not a paste. If you prefer a chunkier texture, use a knife to chop the ham by hand. The key is to create small, even pieces that mix well with the dressing.

💡 Tip: Leftover baked ham or smoked ham works beautifully. Avoid overly salty or glazed ham, as it can overpower the dressing.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Stir until everything blends into a smooth, creamy dressing. This is where the tang and spice of the salad come together.

🥄 Pro Tip: Adjust the amount of mustard and hot sauce to your taste. Dijon mustard gives a sharp, sophisticated flavor, while yellow mustard offers a nostalgic, mild kick.

Step 3: Combine Ham and Dressing

Add the chopped ham to the dressing mixture. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated. Make sure the salad has a creamy but not runny texture—if it feels too thick, add a spoonful of mayonnaise. If it’s too loose, add a bit more chopped ham.

Step 4: Season and Chill

Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper, and mix again. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if needed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to blend beautifully and gives the salad a more cohesive taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, your Deviled Ham Salad is ready to enjoy! Here are some popular ways to serve it:

🥪 Sandwiches: Spread between slices of soft white or rye bread with crisp lettuce.
🍘 Crackers: Serve as an appetizer or party dip.
🥬 Lettuce Wraps: Spoon into crisp romaine or iceberg leaves for a low-carb option.
🍞 Toast Points or Croissants: For a fancy brunch or picnic treat.

Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness before serving.

🧊 Storage Tips

Store Deviled Ham Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Stir before serving, as some liquid may separate during storage.
Avoid freezing, as mayonnaise tends to break down and change texture after thawing.

🧑‍🍳 Variations and Flavor Twists

Add Chopped Celery or Pickles: For crunch and extra tang.
Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo: For a lighter, protein-rich version.
Add Boiled Eggs: To make it heartier, similar to a ham-and-egg salad.
Include a Dash of Horseradish: For a sharp, peppery twist.
Make It Smoky: Mix in a touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – ready in minutes
Great use for leftover ham
Perfect for meal prep or picnics
Customizable to suit your spice level
Deliciously creamy, tangy, and savory

Final Thoughts

Deviled Ham Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Whether you’re spreading it on a sandwich, scooping it with crackers, or serving it as a party dip, its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a timeless favorite. This old-fashioned dish carries a nostalgic charm while being versatile enough for today’s quick meals.

So next time you have leftover ham, skip the ordinary—and “devil” it up instead!