Deviled Ham Salad: A Simple, Irresistible Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the simplicity and savory satisfaction of Deviled Ham Salad. With its creamy texture, savory ham, and a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone coming back for more. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich spread, a dip for your favorite crackers, or a hearty topping for a baked potato, Deviled Ham Salad is a versatile delight that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. If you haven’t tried it yet, prepare for a new obsession!
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Deviled Ham Salad is adored for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and the simple pleasure it brings to every bite. The dish brings together finely chopped ham, creamy mayonnaise, and a zesty combination of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. The result is a smooth, sweet-and-savory spread that is perfectly balanced in flavor. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether served as a sandwich or used as a dip for vegetables or crackers, this recipe delivers comforting flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients: What Makes This Dish Irresistible
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and their role in making this recipe so delicious:
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4 cups diced ham: The star of the dish, providing a savory, salty base. Diced ham adds both flavor and texture to the salad. Use high-quality ham for the best taste.
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1/2 cup mayonnaise: This creamy base holds everything together. Mayonnaise adds richness and smoothness to the texture, making the dish indulgent and satisfying.
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient brings a umami-rich depth to the salad, giving it a bit of savory tang that balances the other flavors beautifully.
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: A bit of Dijon mustard provides tanginess and a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
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1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: The apple cider vinegar introduces just the right amount of acidity to cut through the richness, keeping the flavor light and fresh.
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1/4 teaspoon hot sauce: A dash of hot sauce adds a subtle spicy heat, giving the salad a gentle kick that makes it even more addictive.
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: These basic seasonings help to elevate all the other ingredients, ensuring the dish is well-balanced and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Deviled Ham Salad
Step 1: Prep the Ham Start by dicing your ham into small pieces. If you’re using a food processor, pulse the ham until finely chopped, but not pureed. You want to retain a bit of texture in the salad, so avoid over-processing. If you prefer a more rustic feel, you can chop it by hand. Just make sure the pieces are small enough to blend well with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This is where the magic happens—the creamy, tangy base that will carry the flavor of the ham.
Step 3: Combine the Ham and Dressing Add the chopped ham into the bowl with the dressing and mix well. Ensure the ham is evenly coated in the creamy dressing, making sure every bit of ham gets a little taste of the sauce. Taste the mixture at this point and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch more hot sauce for an extra kick.
Step 4: Chill and Serve Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Deviled Ham Salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious. When you’re ready to serve, give it one final stir before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Deviled Ham Salad
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Use Quality Ham: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality ham. Opt for a deli ham or leftover cooked ham instead of pre-packaged processed ham.
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Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the hot sauce or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
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Add Texture: For added crunch, try mixing in some finely chopped celery or pickles to bring a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy texture.
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Make it Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors will continue to develop, making it an even more flavorful treat.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Deviled Ham Salad
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As a Sandwich: Spread the Deviled Ham Salad between two slices of toasted bread for a simple and hearty sandwich. You can even add some lettuce and tomato for extra crunch and freshness.
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As a Dip: Serve it alongside crackers, chips, or vegetable sticks like celery and carrots for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party.
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On a Salad: For a light lunch, serve the Deviled Ham Salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a deliciously creamy salad.
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As a Topping: Use it as a topping for baked potatoes, toasted bagels, or toast points for a fun and versatile meal option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and oh-so-versatile, Deviled Ham Salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a creamy, savory dish that works as a sandwich, dip, or salad topping. The best part? It only takes minutes to prepare and can be made ahead for even greater convenience.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet lunch at home, Deviled Ham Salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Simple, delicious, and totally customizable—what’s not to love?
Conclusion Deviled Ham Salad is a timeless classic that proves that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a rich, creamy texture and a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors, it’s a dish everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re spreading it on a sandwich or dipping your crackers into it, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor—give it a try today, and prepare to be hooked!