I’ve been making BBQ chipped ham recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated from traditional Southern American cuisine, where it’s a staple at family gatherings and barbecues.
The key to this recipe is the slow-cooking process, which breaks down the chipped ham into tender, flavorful pieces. I love how the sweetness of the BBQ sauce balances out the savory flavor of the ham, creating a deliciously complex taste experience.
My kids adore it because it’s easy to serve and customize with their favorite toppings. We often serve it with crusty bread or over rice, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Easter or Christmas.
As an added bonus, this recipe is relatively healthy compared to other meat-based dishes, thanks to the lean protein content of the chipped ham and the natural sweetness of the BBQ sauce. My husband appreciates how easy it is to make in bulk, so we can enjoy leftovers for days.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – we can serve it as a main course or use it as a topping for salads or baked potatoes. The best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and some patience while it cooks. I’ve tried various variations over the years, but this basic recipe remains my go-to because of its simplicity and flavor.
BBQ Chipped Ham
4.6 from 532 votes
A classic Pittsburgh-style sandwich filling made from thinly sliced deli ham simmered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd on soft buns with coleslaw.
1 1/2 pounds thinly sliced deli ham, chopped into small pieces
1 cup ketchup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Serving
8 soft hamburger buns or kaiser rolls
Coleslaw (optional)
👨🍳Directions
1In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
2Stir the sauce ingredients together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which should take about 2 minutes.
3Add the chopped ham to the simmering sauce and stir to coat all pieces evenly.
4Reduce the heat to low and let the ham cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the ham is heated through and has absorbed the flavors.
5Taste the BBQ chipped ham and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more brown sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
6Serve the hot ham generously piled onto soft buns, topping with coleslaw if desired.
For an authentic Pittsburgh-style sandwich, use extra-thinly sliced ham and ask your deli to shave it. The sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently before adding the ham.
Watch Video Of How BBQ Chipped Ham Works
This BBQ chipped ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just want a simple dinner solution.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes and reheats; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating until hot and bubbly.
We love serving leftovers on sandwiches or wraps for an easy lunch or dinner option.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chipped Ham
Q1: What type of chipped ham should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using a high-quality, thinly sliced chipped ham that’s free from added preservatives and nitrates. Look for brands that use natural ingredients and have minimal processing steps.
Q2: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Q3: How do I store leftover BBQ chipped ham?
Store leftover BBQ chipped ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Q4: Can I substitute chicken or beef for the chipped ham?
While you can experiment with other proteins, keep in mind that they may alter the flavor profile of the dish significantly.
Q5: What are some fun ways to serve BBQ chipped ham?
Try serving it over mashed potatoes, on top of a bed of greens, or as a filling in wraps or subs.
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