Leftover Ham Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you love turning leftovers into something exciting and delicious. That’s exactly why I’m so thrilled to share this Leftover Ham Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe with you. It’s a sweet and savory riff on classic fried rice that transforms your leftover ham and a bit of pineapple into a meal your whole family will rave about. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll have a new favorite way to reinvent those cooked ham bits hanging out in your fridge!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve chosen ingredients that play off each other beautifully: salty, sweet, savory, and slightly smoky. The leftover ham adds protein and depth, while pineapple brings that tropical zing that keeps this fried rice lively. Shopping tip: if you can find fresh pineapple, it’s worth it, but canned diced pineapple packed in juice works well too.

• Soy sauce: Provides that umami salty kick; I prefer low-sodium if you want to control saltiness.
• Pineapple juice: Adds subtle sweetness and acidity—fresh or canned works fine.
• Peanut oil (or vegetable oil): Use peanut oil if you can; it has a nice nutty flavor and high smoke point.
• Leftover ham, diced: This is the star ingredient; make sure it’s well diced for even cooking.
• Pineapple, diced: Sweet and juicy chunks brighten the dish.
• Bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and color; I love red or yellow for sweetness.
• Garlic, minced: A small amount brings amazing fragrance.
• Cooked rice (preferably overnight long grain): Day-old rice gives the best texture, less mushy than fresh.
• Eggs, beaten: Adds richness and protein; scrambled right in the pan.
• Salt, to taste: Always good to taste and adjust at the end.

Variations

I love how adaptable this leftover ham pineapple fried rice recipe is. You can tweak it easily based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences—this flexibility is what keeps it feeling fresh every time I make it.

• Add veggies: I’ve tossed in peas or shredded carrots when I want extra color and crunch.
• Make it spicier: A little chili flakes or sriracha on the side adds a great kick—my family enjoys this version a lot!
• Use different protein: Swap ham with leftover chicken or tofu for a different but equally delicious spin.
• Gluten-free option: Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and you’re good to go.

How to Make Leftover Ham Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize Ham and Pineapple

Start by mixing your soy sauce and pineapple juice in a small bowl—you’ll use this later to season. Heat a tablespoon of peanut oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. When hot, toss in the diced ham and pineapple. Stir occasionally to avoid burning, and cook until you see edges caramelizing and the pineapple starts to brown a bit, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step really develops the flavor, so don’t rush it! Once done, add the diced bell peppers, give it a few stirs to combine, then transfer everything to a plate to keep them separate for now.

Step 2: Toast the Rice & Cook Aromatics

In the same pan, add 1 1/2 tablespoons of oil and toss in the minced garlic. Stir it for about 30 seconds—don’t let it brown; you just want to wake up those aromas. Add your leftover cooked rice and spread it evenly across the pan with your spatula. Let it cook without stirring too much initially to get that lightly toasted, slightly crispy texture. Stir occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes until the rice feels dry and toasty.

Step 3: Scramble Eggs with the Rice

Push the rice to one side of the pan creating a clear spot for your eggs. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil there and pour in the beaten eggs. Let the bottom set for about 30 seconds, then scramble loosely so parts remain a bit runny—this keeps the eggs moist and tender when mixed with rice. Now fold the rice into the eggs, chopping and stirring so they blend evenly. This technique is what gives you those lovely fluffy egg bits throughout your fried rice.

Step 4: Season and Finish Up

Create a well in the center of your rice mixture again and pour the soy sauce-pineapple juice blend in. Let it bubble for a few seconds to cook off excess moisture, then stir everything together so every grain is coated with flavor. Return the cooked ham, pineapple, and peppers to the pan and stir to combine. Taste and add salt if needed. Give it a final stir and cook for another minute or so until the mixture feels dry and fragrant. Serve it hot right from the pan—trust me, it tastes best that way!

How to Serve Leftover Ham Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

My go-to garnishes are chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. They add freshness and a bit of crunch without overpowering the sweet-savory notes of the dish. Sometimes I add chopped fresh cilantro for a slightly citrusy lift, especially if serving with a squeeze of lime on the side.

Side Dishes

I love pairing this fried rice with steamed or stir-fried vegetables—think broccoli, snap peas, or baby bok choy. It also works great alongside simple Asian-inspired salads or even crispy spring rolls if you want to kick it up a notch for dinner guests.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this fried rice inside carved-out pineapple halves—such a fun, festive presentation that always wows! You can also mound it neatly in a ring mold or small bowl, then unmold for a restaurant-style plating that’s surprisingly easy to do.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fried rice, pop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It keeps well for up to 3 days, which is plenty of time to enjoy quick lunches or dinner leftovers without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this fried rice successfully, though I recommend dividing it into meal-sized portions first to avoid thawing the whole batch. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I like using a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking and refresh the rice’s fluffiness. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the rice will be better with a quick pan toss.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Leftover Ham Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe turns simple ingredients into a star meal. Whenever I’ve got leftover ham sitting in the fridge, this recipe saves the day with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy weekend brunch. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how something so straightforward brings this much joy to the table. I can’t wait to hear what you think once you whip it up in your own kitchen!

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