Creamy, tangy, salty, and a little sweet—Ham Salad is the kind of comfort food that brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen. This retro-style sandwich spread is a staple in Southern homes and potlucks, known for its versatility and big flavor in a simple package. Perfect on toast, crackers, or tucked between slices of sandwich bread, it’s a great way to transform leftover ham into a satisfying lunch or snack.

With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe comes together in minutes. The beauty of ham salad lies in the balance—the saltiness of the ham, the sharpness of the mustard, the creaminess of the mayo, and the zing of pickles and onion. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish that deserves a comeback in your kitchen.

What Kind of Ham Should I Use?

You can use nearly any kind of cooked ham for this salad. Leftover holiday ham, smoked ham, or deli ham all work wonderfully. The key is to finely chop it (or pulse it in a food processor) to make sure the texture is spreadable. Avoid overly sweet hams like honey-glazed varieties unless you’re going for that sweet-and-savory contrast.

Ingredients for the Ham Salad

Cooked Ham
This is the heart of the recipe. It should be finely chopped so that it blends easily with the rest of the ingredients.

Mayonnaise
It brings the creamy texture and helps all the ingredients bind together.

Dill Pickles or Sweet Relish
Adds tang and crunch. Dill for a briny bite, or sweet relish for a more nostalgic twist.

Celery
For freshness and texture. It also lightens up the salad with a nice crisp crunch.

Red Onion
Gives the mixture sharpness and a pop of color. A little goes a long way.

Yellow Mustard
Adds a touch of zing and cuts through the richness of the mayo.

Black Pepper
Enhances all the savory notes without overpowering them.

How To Make the Ham Salad

Step 1: Prep the Ham

Chop your cooked ham into small pieces, or use a food processor for a finer spread. You want small bits, not a puree—think chunky yet spreadable.

Step 2: Combine the Base

In a mixing bowl, stir together mayonnaise, mustard, black pepper, and finely chopped red onion. This is the creamy and flavorful base that holds everything together.

Step 3: Add the Crunch

Fold in diced celery and pickles or relish. These give the salad its signature zip and texture.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Add the chopped ham and mix until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve on sandwich bread, crackers, or lettuce cups.

How to Serve and Store Your Ham Salad

Ham salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it between slices of toasted white bread for a classic sandwich, spoon it into lettuce wraps for a lighter option, or dollop it onto crackers for an easy appetizer.

To store, place your ham salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the mayo-based dressing can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make ham salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge. Just stir before serving.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?

You can, but note that Miracle Whip is sweeter and tangier, which will alter the flavor.

What other mix-ins can I add?

Chopped boiled eggs, shredded cheese, or even a touch of hot sauce work well if you want to change things up.

Can I make it low-carb?

Yes! Use dill pickles instead of relish and serve it in lettuce cups or on cucumber slices.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Just be mindful of the onions or mustard if your kids are sensitive to bold flavors.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this creamy, retro-style ham salad, you might enjoy these other savory creations too:

Popcorn Salad Recipe for a unique, crunchy twist on classic salad.
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad that combines two potluck favorites into one creamy bite.
Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip for a salty, tangy dip option.
Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad loaded with smoky spice and sweet corn goodness.
Sweet and Spicy Pepper Jelly Deviled Eggs for an upgraded classic with a kick.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest lunch or potluck board so you can find it fast when you’re craving something creamy and savory.

And if you try it, let me know how yours turned out! Did you stick with dill or sweet relish? Did you go traditional or give it a spicy twist?

Tag me or leave a comment—I love seeing your versions. And if you’re looking for more weekday favorites, check out my Pinterest at Life with Jam.

Ham Salad

Author: Jam Scott

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy, savory, slightly tangy ham salad is a nostalgic favorite made for sandwiches, crackers, or lettuce wraps. A great way to use up leftover ham, it’s fast, delicious, and always satisfying.