Introduction
Leftover roast vegetables can often find a new life in creative and delicious ways. This recipe utilizes a variety of mixed roast vegetables alongside higher-welfare cooked ham to make satisfying bubble and squeak hamburgers. These tasty burgers are perfect for lunch or a light dinner, offering a delightful mixture of flavors and textures paired with freshly pickled red onions and greens.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 red onion
2 teaspoons cider vinegar
600g mixed leftover roast vegetables, including potatoes, swede, parsnips, carrots, Brussels sprouts
280g higher-welfare cooked ham
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 English muffins or rolls
1 handful of lettuce leaves, such as baby cos, frisée
Optional: ketchup
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers
This delightful recipe is not only a wonderful way to reduce food waste but also brings together a medley of flavors that are sure to please. Enjoy your homemade bubble and squeak hamburgers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Red Onion
Peel and slice the red onion, then place it in a small bowl. Cover the sliced onion with the cider vinegar and set aside to pickle.
Step 2: Make the Burger Mixture
Take the mixed leftover roast vegetables and mash them well using a potato masher. Once mashed, shred the cooked ham into small pieces and add it to the vegetable mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix everything together thoroughly. Shape the mixture into 4 burger patties and place them in the fridge to chill and firm up until ready to use.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
In a large frying pan, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once heated, carefully place the burgers into the pan. Cook them for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they become crisp and turn golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches if they don’t all fit in the pan at once.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Take the English muffins or rolls and slice them in half. Fill each half with a bubble and squeak burger, top with pickled red onion, a handful of lettuce leaves, and add ketchup if desired.
Notes
Storage Suggestions
Any leftover burger patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in a pan or microwave before serving.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to use any leftover vegetables you have on hand for the burger mixture, as long as they are similar in texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers are great on their own or served with a side salad or some crispy fries for a more filling meal. Adjust the toppings based on your preference for a customized experience.

Cook techniques
Pickling Red Onions
Place sliced red onions in a bowl and cover with cider vinegar. This process enhances the flavor and adds a tangy crunch to your dish. Let it sit while you prepare the other ingredients.
Mashing Leftover Vegetables
Use a potato masher to mash the leftover roast vegetables until well combined. This technique helps create a cohesive mix for the burger patties.
Shaping Burgers
Once the vegetable mixture is ready, incorporate shredded ham, season, and shape into four burgers. Chilling them in the fridge helps firm up the patties for cooking.
Cooking Burgers
In a frying pan, heat unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Cook the shaped burgers for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Assembling the Sandwich
Slice the English muffins or rolls in half and layer with bubble and squeak hamburgers, pickled red onion, lettuce, and optional ketchup for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of vegetables for the burgers?
Yes, you can use any leftover cooked vegetables you have on hand. Just ensure they are well mashed for the best texture.
How long should I chill the burger patties?
Chilling the burger patties for at least 30 minutes will help them hold their shape when cooking.
What is the purpose of mixing butter and olive oil?
Combining butter and olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning while adding flavor and richness to the burgers.
Can I prepare the burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the burger patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.
What can I serve with the bubble and squeak burgers?
These burgers pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or chips for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This recipe transforms leftover roast vegetables and ham into delicious bubble and squeak burgers, creating a satisfying meal that is both flavorful and resourceful. By using simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty dish that minimizes food waste while still delivering on taste. The combination of crispy burgers, pickled red onion, and fresh lettuce provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Loaded Veggie Quesadillas
Create quesadillas using the leftover roasted vegetables and cooked ham. Add cheese and serve with salsa for a quick and delicious meal.
Vegetable and Ham Frittata
Whisk eggs and mix in the mashed leftover vegetables and ham. Cook in a skillet for a perfect brunch dish packed with flavor.
Ham and Vegetable Soup
Combine the leftover vegetables and ham in a pot with stock, herbs, and spices for a hearty soup. Simmer until warmed through for a comforting dish.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the leftover vegetables and ham with rice or quinoa, stuff into halved bell peppers, and bake until tender for a nutritious meal.
Vegetable and Ham Hash
Sauté the leftover vegetables with diced ham, and top with fried or poached eggs for a filling breakfast or brunch option.
