13 Ham Ideas People Use for Those “In-Between” December Evenings
After holiday parties settle down, 13 ham ideas offer a smart way to make dinners feel special during those in-between December nights. Simple meals work best when everyone’s tired from the festive pace. You’ll appreciate easy options for enjoying quiet evenings or spur-of-the-moment guests.

Ham Salad

During those chilly December evenings, nothing feels quite as easy as this Ham Salad. The cool, creamy texture paired with a little crunch invites folks back for seconds. Each bite feels both familiar and just a little unexpected when you bring it out. People never seem to leave any behind.
Get the Recipe: Ham Salad
Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel

Biting into this Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel brings together all those comforting flavors people crave in winter. Perfect for grabbing as you rush between holiday events, it always goes quickly at a buffet. A single warm bite feels like true comfort. Guests often ask for the recipe before heading home.
Get the Recipe: Savory Egg Prosciutto Bagel
Ham and Split Pea Soup

Cold nights are a little easier with this Ham and Split Pea Soup on the table. The soothing warmth seems to fill the whole room, while each spoonful offers a gentle reminder of home. Holiday gatherings feel more relaxed with something this cozy. Guests linger a little longer when it’s around.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup
Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies

When a table fills with lots of snacks and sweets, this Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies stands out. There is a simple charm and balance in the warm, homey taste. People usually smile after the first bite. Everyone tends to reach for another serving before the evening is done.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar Ham and Veggies
Ham and Potato Soup

Steaming bowls of this Ham and Potato Soup seem to make worries melt away. Friends look forward to the thick, hearty comfort after a long winter day. It fits right between holiday celebrations or quick weeknight meals. A pot never seems to last very long.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Soup
Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham

One bite of this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham feels like a special December treat. The sweet and savory mix turns ordinary nights into something worth remembering. Every slice disappears a bit faster than expected. People usually ask what made it taste so good.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

Serving this Hearty Ham and Bean Soup instantly creates a welcoming mood. There is something about the aroma that brings everyone to the kitchen. Shoveling out second helpings is practically expected. Those in-between evenings gain a sense of occasion thanks to just a simple bowl.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and Cheese Quiche

Some evenings call for a meal that feels a bit more put-together, and this Ham and Cheese Quiche gets that nod. The creamy, cheesy middle paired with ham makes for satisfying, simple comfort. Each slice suits both fancy and quick dinners. People end up chatting around the table a little longer.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Quiche
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

Opening the oven to this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole means winter feels a little less harsh. Each forkful combines simple ingredients for genuine warmth. People often go back for seconds before it cools. It manages to fit perfectly between busy nights and holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Melty Ham and Swiss Sliders

Warm from the oven, these Melty Ham and Swiss Sliders bring out the chatter at any table. With gooey cheese and savory ham, everyone wants to grab one while they’re hot. They disappear quickly during December’s busy evenings. Guests remember them long after the night wraps up.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Swiss Sliders
Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Standing by the buffet, this Copycat Honey Baked Ham always draws a crowd. Familiar flavors meet a hint of something special that people notice right away. December evenings become something to look forward to when it’s served. People tend to gather for just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

Nothing disappears faster than this Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls platter once the evening starts. Warm, golden, and oh-so-comforting, it fits perfectly on December tables. People find themselves grabbing seconds without even thinking. Even a big tray doesn’t last for long.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders

Batches of these Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders rarely last more than a few minutes once served. Friends tend to hover nearby, hoping to snag another warm bite as December evenings grow darker. Each one feels like a mini treat. Guests often mention them the next time everyone gathers.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
