20 Spam Recipes: Creative & Delicious Ways To Cook Spam

Hey guys! Ever stared at a can of Spam and wondered, "What on earth can I do with this?" You're not alone! Spam, that iconic canned meat, often gets a bad rap, but it's actually super versatile and can be transformed into some seriously delicious dishes. Forget the same old fried Spam slices – we're diving into 20 exciting and creative ways to prepare Spam that will surprise your taste buds and maybe even make you a Spam convert. So, let's get cooking and explore the wonderful world of Spam!

What is Spam Anyway?

Before we jump into the recipes, let's talk about what Spam actually is. Spam is a canned cooked pork product made by Hormel Foods Corporation. It's been around since 1937 and gained popularity during World War II due to its long shelf life and convenience. The main ingredients are pork with ham, salt, water, modified potato starch, sugar, and sodium nitrite to help keep its color and freshness. It has a unique, slightly salty flavor that many find appealing, and its dense texture makes it great for slicing, dicing, and cubing. While it might not be the fanciest ingredient, Spam is undeniably a pantry staple in many households and cultures, especially in Hawaii and parts of Asia.

Spam's journey from a wartime ration to a beloved ingredient is quite fascinating. During World War II, it was shipped overseas to feed the troops, and after the war, it remained a popular and affordable source of protein. In Hawaii, Spam musubi (a slice of Spam atop a block of rice, wrapped with nori) is practically a local institution. In Korea, Spam is a popular gift item and a key ingredient in dishes like budae jjigae (army stew). This little can of meat has a global presence, and it's time we celebrated its versatility!

So, what makes Spam such a good candidate for creative cooking? Well, for starters, its flavor is a blank canvas. It can absorb and complement a wide range of flavors, from sweet to savory, spicy to tangy. Its texture holds up well to various cooking methods, whether you're frying, baking, grilling, or even air frying. And let's not forget its convenience – Spam is pre-cooked and shelf-stable, making it a fantastic option for quick and easy meals. If you're looking to add a bit of fun and nostalgia to your cooking, Spam is your answer. Let’s ditch the preconceived notions and get ready to explore the 20 exciting options we have lined up for you!

20 Creative Ways to Prepare Spam

Alright, let's get to the good stuff – the recipes! We’ve gathered 20 delicious and inventive ways to cook Spam that go way beyond the basic fried slice. These ideas will show you just how versatile Spam can be, from breakfast to dinner and everything in between. Get ready to be inspired and maybe even a little bit surprised!

1. Spam Musubi

Spam musubi is the quintessential Spam dish, especially in Hawaii. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack or meal that consists of a slice of grilled Spam glazed with teriyaki sauce, placed on a bed of sushi rice, and wrapped with a strip of nori seaweed. The combination of salty Spam, sweet teriyaki, and fluffy rice is just heavenly. Making Spam musubi is easier than you might think, and it's a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the world of creative Spam cooking. The beauty of musubi lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

To make it, you’ll need cooked sushi rice, a can of Spam, nori seaweed sheets, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (optional, for added flavor in the glaze). First, slice the Spam into even pieces, about ¼-inch thick. In a small pan, mix soy sauce, sugar, and mirin (if using) to create the teriyaki glaze. Grill or pan-fry the Spam slices until they are golden brown and slightly crispy, then brush them with the glaze. Use a musubi mold (or an empty Spam can!) to shape the rice. Place a layer of rice in the mold, top with a slice of glazed Spam, and press gently. Remove the musubi from the mold and wrap it with a strip of nori. And there you have it – perfect Spam musubi, ready to be devoured! This dish is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and delicious. If you’ve never tried Spam musubi, this is your sign to make it ASAP!

2. Spam Fried Rice

Next up, we have a classic comfort food with a Spam twist: Spam fried rice. This dish is quick, easy, and perfect for using up leftover rice. Spam adds a salty and savory element that takes fried rice to the next level. It’s a complete meal in one pan, packed with flavor and textures. The beauty of fried rice is that it's incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Spam fried rice is a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

To make Spam fried rice, you'll need cooked rice (day-old rice works best), Spam, eggs, mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and corn), soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other seasonings you like (such as garlic, ginger, or green onions). Start by dicing the Spam and frying it until it’s crispy. Scramble the eggs in the same pan and set them aside. Add the vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp. Then, add the rice and break it up with a spatula. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and toss everything together until well combined. Finally, add the cooked Spam and eggs back to the pan and stir everything together. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish. Spam fried rice is not only delicious but also a great way to get creative with leftovers and create a hearty meal.

3. Spam and Egg Breakfast Sandwich

Start your day off right with a Spam and egg breakfast sandwich. This is a hearty and satisfying breakfast that's perfect for those mornings when you need something quick and filling. The combination of crispy Spam, a perfectly cooked egg, and your favorite bread or bun is simply irresistible. It’s a step up from your regular breakfast sandwich and will keep you energized until lunchtime. This sandwich is super customizable – you can add cheese, veggies, or your favorite sauce to make it your own.

To make a Spam and egg breakfast sandwich, you’ll need sliced Spam, eggs, your choice of bread or buns, cheese (optional), and any other toppings you like (such as lettuce, tomato, or avocado). Fry the Spam slices until they are golden brown and crispy. Cook the eggs to your liking – whether you prefer them sunny-side up, over easy, or scrambled. Toast your bread or buns. Assemble the sandwich by layering the Spam, eggs, cheese (if using), and other toppings between the bread slices or buns. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and satisfying breakfast sandwich. It’s a fantastic way to kick off your day with a burst of flavor and energy. The Spam and egg breakfast sandwich is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly amazing.

4. Spam Tacos

Spice up your taco night with Spam tacos! This is a fun and unexpected twist on a classic dish. Spam adds a salty and savory element that pairs perfectly with your favorite taco toppings. It’s a great way to add some variety to your taco rotation and impress your friends and family. Spam tacos are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite taco fillings, making them a versatile option for any meal.

To make Spam tacos, you’ll need diced Spam, taco seasoning, your choice of taco shells (corn or flour), and your favorite taco toppings (such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole). Cook the diced Spam in a pan with taco seasoning until it’s heated through and slightly crispy. Warm the taco shells according to the package instructions. Fill each taco shell with the seasoned Spam and your desired toppings. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and fun twist on tacos. Spam tacos are a great example of how you can use Spam in unexpected ways to create delicious and exciting meals. They’re perfect for a casual dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.

5. Spam Mac and Cheese

Elevate your mac and cheese game with Spam mac and cheese. This is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Spam adds a savory and salty flavor that complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone. Spam mac and cheese is a great way to add some protein and flavor to your favorite comfort food. It’s also a fantastic option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

To make Spam mac and cheese, you’ll need cooked macaroni pasta, diced Spam, your favorite cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought), and any other additions you like (such as breadcrumbs or vegetables). If you're making your cheese sauce from scratch, start by melting butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and stir until the sauce thickens. Stir in shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a combination) until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and diced Spam to the cheese sauce and stir until everything is well combined. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish (optional) and top with breadcrumbs if desired. Bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish. Spam mac and cheese is a classic combination that’s sure to become a family favorite.

6. Grilled Spam Skewers

Fire up the grill and make some grilled Spam skewers! This is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy Spam during the warmer months. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a delicious dimension to the Spam, and the skewers are perfect for parties or barbecues. You can thread the Spam with your favorite vegetables and create a colorful and tasty dish. Grilled Spam skewers are easy to make and can be customized to your liking, making them a versatile option for any occasion.

To make grilled Spam skewers, you’ll need cubed Spam, your choice of vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes), and a marinade (optional). If you’re using a marinade, mix together ingredients like soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Marinate the Spam and vegetables for at least 30 minutes. Thread the Spam and vegetables onto skewers. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the Spam is heated through and the vegetables are tender. Serve the grilled Spam skewers hot and enjoy this flavorful and fun dish. They’re a great way to add some excitement to your next barbecue.

7. Spam Pizza

Take your pizza night to the next level with Spam pizza! This is a creative and delicious way to use Spam as a pizza topping. Spam adds a salty and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with cheese and other pizza toppings. It’s a fun and unexpected twist on a classic dish that’s sure to impress. Spam pizza is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite pizza toppings, making it a versatile option for any pizza lover.

To make Spam pizza, you’ll need pizza dough (homemade or store-bought), pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced Spam, and any other pizza toppings you like (such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, and olives). Preheat your oven according to the pizza dough instructions. Roll out the pizza dough and spread pizza sauce evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then top with sliced Spam and your other desired toppings. Bake the pizza until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this delicious and creative Spam pizza! It’s a perfect way to add some excitement to your next pizza night.

8. Spam Fried Noodles

Create a quick and flavorful meal with Spam fried noodles. This is a great way to use Spam in an Asian-inspired dish. Spam adds a savory and salty element that pairs perfectly with noodles and vegetables. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Spam fried noodles are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite noodles, vegetables, and sauces, making them a versatile option for any meal.

To make Spam fried noodles, you’ll need cooked noodles (such as egg noodles, ramen, or udon), diced Spam, your choice of vegetables (such as carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, and bean sprouts), soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other seasonings you like (such as garlic, ginger, and chili flakes). Stir-fry the diced Spam in a pan until it’s slightly crispy. Add the vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and stir until well combined. Add any other seasonings you like and stir again. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying Spam fried noodles. It’s a great way to create a delicious and easy meal using Spam.

9. Spam and Potato Hash

For a hearty and comforting meal, try Spam and potato hash. This is a classic dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Spam and potatoes are a match made in heaven, and the combination is both filling and flavorful. This dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Spam and potato hash is a great way to use Spam in a rustic and satisfying meal.

To make Spam and potato hash, you’ll need diced Spam, diced potatoes (such as Yukon gold or russet), diced onion, and any other vegetables you like (such as bell peppers or garlic). Cook the potatoes in a pan until they are tender and slightly browned. Add the diced Spam and onion and cook until the Spam is crispy and the onion is translucent. Add any other vegetables you like and cook until they are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty and flavorful Spam and potato hash. It’s a perfect comfort food dish for any time of day.

10. Spam Empanadas

Bring a little Latin flair to your Spam cooking with Spam empanadas. These savory pastries are filled with a delicious mixture of Spam, vegetables, and spices. They’re perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a light meal. Spam empanadas are a fun and creative way to use Spam and introduce some international flavors to your cooking. They’re also a great option for parties or gatherings.

To make Spam empanadas, you’ll need empanada dough (homemade or store-bought), diced Spam, diced vegetables (such as onions, peppers, and potatoes), spices (such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic), and an egg for egg wash. Cook the diced Spam in a pan until it’s slightly crispy. Add the diced vegetables and spices and cook until the vegetables are tender. Let the filling cool slightly. Roll out the empanada dough and cut out circles. Place a spoonful of the Spam filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal. Brush the empanadas with egg wash. Bake in the oven until golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy these delicious and savory Spam empanadas. They’re a perfect way to enjoy Spam with a Latin twist.

11 - 20. Ten More Delicious Spam Ideas

We've covered a lot of ground, but there are still so many more ways to enjoy Spam! Here are ten additional ideas to spark your culinary creativity:

11. Spam Fritters: Dip slices of Spam in batter and fry until golden brown for a crispy and savory treat.
12. Spam Spring Rolls: Use Spam as a filling for fresh spring rolls, paired with rice noodles, vegetables, and a flavorful dipping sauce.
13. Spam Pizza Rolls: Add diced Spam to pizza rolls for a savory and satisfying snack.
14. Spam and Kimchi Stew: Incorporate Spam into a Korean kimchi stew for added flavor and heartiness.
15. Spam and Vegetable Stir-Fry: Create a quick and healthy stir-fry with Spam and your favorite vegetables.
16. Spam Salad Sandwich: Make a Spam salad similar to tuna or chicken salad and serve it on bread or crackers.
17. Spam Deviled Eggs: Mix diced Spam into deviled egg filling for a unique and flavorful appetizer.
18. Spam Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with cheese, Spam, and your favorite toppings for a quick and easy meal.
19. Spam and Mushroom Pasta: Add diced Spam to a creamy mushroom pasta sauce for a savory and satisfying dish.
20. Spam Sushi Bake: Layer Spam, rice, and nori in a baking dish and bake until golden brown for a deconstructed sushi experience.

Tips for Cooking with Spam

Before you dive into these recipes, here are a few tips for cooking with Spam to ensure the best results:

• Slice it right: The thickness of your Spam slices can affect the texture and cooking time. Aim for even slices that are about ¼-inch thick for frying or grilling.
• Crisp it up: Spam is delicious when it's crispy. Fry it in a pan with a little oil until it's golden brown and slightly caramelized.
• Drain the fat: Spam contains a fair amount of fat, so be sure to drain it off after cooking to avoid a greasy dish.
• Season it well: Spam is naturally salty, so go easy on the salt when seasoning your dishes. Experiment with other flavors like garlic, ginger, and spices to balance the saltiness.
• Get creative: Don't be afraid to try new things with Spam. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – 20 creative ways to prepare Spam that go way beyond the basics. Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to look at Spam in a new light and get adventurous in the kitchen. Spam is a versatile, affordable, and convenient ingredient that can be used to create some seriously delicious meals. Whether you're a longtime Spam lover or a curious newcomer, there's a recipe here for everyone. So grab a can of Spam, get cooking, and enjoy the delicious possibilities!