Description
A delicious and creamy deviled ham spread perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover holiday ham works perfectly)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (start with less, add more as needed)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (or Dijon for a more sophisticated flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, drained
- 1 hard-boiled egg, finely chopped (optional but traditional)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced onion (sweet or yellow onion work best)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish for heat
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika for color and mild smokiness
- Dash of hot sauce (Louisiana-style preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ham Base – Start by finely chopping your cooked ham into small, uniform pieces about 1/4-inch in size. The key to exceptional deviled ham is achieving the right texture – you want pieces small enough to spread easily but large enough to provide satisfying bites of ham flavor. A food processor works wonderfully for this, but pulse carefully to avoid turning the ham into paste. If chopping by hand, use a sharp knife and take your time for even pieces.
- Create the Creamy Foundation – In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-blended. This creates your flavor base, so taste and adjust – if you prefer more tang, add extra mustard; for richness, increase the mayonnaise slightly. The mixture should be creamy but not too thick, as you’ll be folding in solid ingredients.
- Add the Flavor Components – Fold in the drained pickle relish, minced onion, and chopped hard-boiled egg (if using). Mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring even distribution. The pickle relish adds crucial sweetness and texture, while the onion provides a subtle bite that complements the ham’s smokiness. If using fresh chives or other herbs, add them now for the brightest flavor.
- Combine and Season – Add the chopped ham to your creamy mixture and fold together until well-coated. Season with garlic powder, black pepper, and any optional spices like paprika or horseradish. Taste and adjust seasonings – this is your opportunity to make the deviled ham perfectly suited to your preferences. The mixture should hold together nicely but not be dry.
- Rest and Serve – Transfer the deviled ham to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows flavors to develop and makes the spread easier to handle. Before serving, give it a quick stir and taste once more, adjusting seasonings if needed.
Notes
- This deviled ham spread is perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a dip.
- Feel free to modify the spices and ingredients based on your preference.
- It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg