Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this deviled ham spread will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No cooking required. Just mix and chill.
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Ready in under 10 minutes (plus chilling time).
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Creamy and tangy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves ham spread.
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Budget-friendly. Canned ham, cream cheese, and relish are inexpensive.
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Perfect for parties, holidays, and gatherings.
Ingredients
Servings: 8
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2 (4.25-ounce) cans deviled ham (such as Underwood), well drained
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1/3 cup sweet pickle relish, well drained
Ingredient Notes
Deviled ham: Use canned deviled ham. Drain it well.
Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese. Soften it to room temperature.
Sweet pickle relish: Use sweet pickle relish. Drain it well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese
Place the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl. Mash it gently with a fork or the back of a spoon until smooth and easy to stir.
Step 2: Add the Deviled Ham
Add the well-drained deviled ham to the bowl. Use a fork to break up any larger pieces of ham so it mixes evenly into the cream cheese.
Step 3: Mix Together
Stir the cream cheese and deviled ham together until the mixture is mostly smooth and evenly pink, with no big streaks of plain cream cheese showing.
Step 4: Add the Relish
Add the well-drained sweet pickle relish to the bowl. Fold it in gently until it is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Adjust Texture (Optional)
Taste the spread and adjust the texture by adding more deviled ham for a meatier spread or more cream cheese for a milder, creamier spread.
Step 6: Shape and Chill
Spoon the deviled ham spread onto a glass serving platter and smooth it into a low mound or oval shape. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 7: Serve
Just before serving, remove the plastic wrap. Arrange crisp golden crackers around the spread and serve chilled.
How to Serve Deviled Ham Spread
This creamy, tangy spread is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers or water crackers.
With Bread: Serve with sliced baguette or toast points.
With Vegetables: Serve with celery sticks or cucumber slices.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Pickles: Serve with extra pickles on the side.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Dill Relish: Use dill relish for a tangier flavor.
Make It with Green Onions: Add chopped green onions.
Make It with Hot Sauce: Add a dash of heat.
Make It with Paprika: Sprinkle with smoked paprika.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Garlic: Add garlic powder.
Make It with Chives: Garnish with fresh chives.
Make It Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Drain the ham and relish well. Excess liquid can make the spread runny.
Soften the cream cheese completely. This ensures a smooth spread.
Chill before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Use a fork to mix. This helps break up the ham evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different ham?
Yes. Cooked ham can be used. Chop it finely.
Can I use a different relish?
Yes. Dill or bread and butter relish can be used.
Can I use a different cream cheese?
Yes. Dairy-free cream cheese can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Chill for up to 24 hours before serving.
Can I freeze this spread?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Why is my spread runny?
The ham and relish were not drained well. Drain thoroughly.
Can I add more relish?
Yes. Add up to 1/2 cup.
Can I use a different bowl?
Yes. Any serving dish works.
Can I serve this warm?
This spread is best served chilled.
The Beauty of Southern Spreads
There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, tangy spread that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This deviled ham spread is a celebration of all those things.
Keep deviled ham, cream cheese, and relish in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings