This creamy ham salad is a timeless favorite that’s packed with savory flavor and just the right amount of tang.
Perfect for everything from casual lunches to elegant party spreads, it’s one of those recipes that people try once—and then keep asking for again and again.
Whether served on soft rolls, toasted bread, or crisp crackers, it delivers a satisfying bite every time.
What makes this ham salad truly special is its balance of textures and flavors.
Finely chopped ham blends with creamy mayonnaise, zesty mustard, and bright pickle relish, while dried onions soak up the dressing to create a rich, cohesive mixture.
It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, and even better after chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy days or entertaining.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Chill Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 12
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds cooked ham, chopped
- ¾ cup mayonnaise, or as needed
- ⅓ cup dried minced onion (or to taste)
- ⅓ cup dill pickle relish
- ¼ cup brown mustard
Directions
- Add chopped ham to a food processor and pulse 6–7 times until finely chopped but not overly smooth. Work in batches if needed. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add mayonnaise, dried onion, pickle relish, and brown mustard to the ham. Stir until fully combined and creamy.
- If the mixture feels too thick or dry, add a bit more mayonnaise until desired consistency is reached.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to develop and the onions to soften.
- Stir before serving and adjust mayonnaise if needed. Serve chilled on bread, crackers, or rolls.
Chef’s Notes
- Use high-quality baked ham for the best flavor—avoid processed or boiled ham.
- Including bits of the caramelized outer crust adds extra depth and richness.
- Dill relish gives a tangy bite, but sweet relish can be used for a milder, slightly sweet version.
- The dried onions absorb moisture as it chills, so you may need to stir in extra mayonnaise before serving.
- For a lighter option, use a mix of regular and light mayonnaise.