This Classic Deli-Style Ham Salad is creamy, savory, and packed with nostalgic flavor. It’s the perfect way to turn leftover ham into something fresh and irresistible. Finely minced ham is blended with crunchy celery, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy, creamy dressing that spreads beautifully on sandwiches or scoops easily onto crackers. Best of all, it comes together quickly and tastes even better after chilling, making it ideal for meal prep, lunches, or easy entertaining.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the ham mixture
Add the diced ham, chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, and black pepper to a food processor.
2. Mince to the right texture
Pulse the mixture 20–25 times using short bursts. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. The goal is a finely minced texture with some bite, not a smooth paste.
3. Make the dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and well-drained sweet pickle relish until smooth and fully combined.
4. Combine everything
Add the minced ham mixture to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
5. Chill for best flavor
Cover and refrigerate the ham salad for at least 2–4 hours. For the best flavor and texture, chill overnight.
6. Serve and enjoy
Serve cold on soft rolls, slider buns, or with crackers. It’s also delicious in lettuce cups for a lighter option.
Tips for the Best Ham Salad
- Don’t over-process: Too many pulses will turn the mixture into a paste. Stop as soon as it’s finely chopped.
- Drain the relish well: Excess liquid can make the salad watery. Blot it dry with a paper towel if needed.
- Adjust creaminess: Add an extra tablespoon of mayo if you prefer a softer, more spreadable texture.
- Let it rest: Chilling allows the flavors to blend and mellow, making a big difference in taste.
- Taste before seasoning: Ham can be salty, so always taste before adding extra salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make ham salad without a food processor?
Yes. You can finely chop the ham, eggs, and vegetables by hand. The texture will be chunkier but still delicious.
How long does ham salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, ham salad will keep for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze ham salad?
Freezing is not recommended. The mayonnaise can separate after thawing, affecting texture and flavor.
What’s the best ham to use?
Leftover baked ham or a thick slab of deli ham works best. Avoid thin-sliced deli ham, as it can become mushy.
What else can I serve ham salad with?
Beyond sandwiches and crackers, try it in lettuce wraps, on toasted bread, stuffed into tomatoes, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
