Pittsburgh BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwich: A Classic Regional Comfort Food Delight

Homestyle Pittsburgh BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwich

The BBQ chipped chopped ham sandwich is a true Pittsburgh classic that brings comfort food to a whole new level. This regional specialty features thinly sliced chopped ham smothered in a sweet and tangy homemade barbecue sauce, all piled high on soft sandwich buns. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you need a delicious meal that comes together quickly!

What Makes a Great BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwich?

The magic of this sandwich comes from two key elements:

• Chipped ham – Sliced paper-thin, allowing it to absorb all the delicious sauce
• Homemade barbecue sauce – A sweet and tangy blend that transforms ordinary ham into something extraordinary

The History Behind Pittsburgh’s Favorite Sandwich

The BBQ chipped ham sandwich became popular in Western Pennsylvania during the mid-20th century when Isaly’s, a local dairy store chain, began selling thinly sliced chopped ham (often called “chipped ham”). The addition of a sweet barbecue sauce created what locals affectionately call “Isaly’s chipped chopped ham barbecue” or simply “ham barbecues.”

Ingredients You’ll Need for BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwiches

• 1 pound chipped chopped ham (thinly sliced deli ham)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 6 hamburger buns

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Kitchen scissors (helpful for breaking up the ham)

How to Make the Perfect BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwich

1. In a large saucepan, combine ketchup, water, sweet pickle relish, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Season the sauce with liquid smoke (if using), cinnamon, black pepper, and garlic salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
4. While the sauce is still hot, add the chipped chopped ham to the saucepan. If the ham slices are clumped together, gently separate them with your fingers or kitchen scissors before adding to the sauce.
5. Stir to coat the ham completely with the barbecue sauce. Continue heating for another 5-7 minutes until the ham is heated through.
6. Lightly toast the hamburger buns if desired.
7. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, pile the saucy ham mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns.
8. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chipped Ham Experience

• Getting the right ham: Ask your deli counter to “chip” or shave the ham as thinly as possible. If they can’t do this, chop regular deli ham into smaller pieces.
• Sauce consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
• Make ahead: The barbecue sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat and add the ham when ready to serve.
• Freezer-friendly: The ham and sauce mixture freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Perfect Side Dishes for BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwiches

Complete your meal with these complementary sides:

• Potato chips
• Coleslaw
• Baked beans
• Macaroni salad
• Pickle spears

Variations on the Classic BBQ Chipped Ham Sandwich

Spicy Version

Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a kick.

Cheesy Ham BBQ

Top your sandwich with a slice of American or provolone cheese just before serving.

Deluxe BBQ Ham Sandwich

Add coleslaw directly on top of the ham for a crunchy, creamy contrast.

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chipped Chopped Ham Sandwiches

What is “chipped” ham?

Chipped ham is ham that’s sliced extremely thin – almost shaved. This thin texture allows the meat to better absorb the barbecue sauce and creates the signature texture of a Pittsburgh-style BBQ ham sandwich.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Absolutely! Combine all sauce ingredients in a slow cooker, stir well, then add the ham. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-1.5 hours until hot and well-combined.

What if I can’t find chipped ham?

If you can’t find chipped ham, ask your deli to slice regular ham as thinly as possible. You can also purchase regular deli ham and chop it into small pieces to achieve a similar texture.

The BBQ chipped chopped ham sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Pittsburgh tradition that’s stood the test of time. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors wrapped in a soft bun, it’s no wonder this sandwich continues to be a family favorite across generations. Whether you’re a Pittsburgh native or trying this regional classic for the first time, these saucy sandwiches are sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Recipe inspired by Pittsburgh Chipped Ham Barbecues from Allrecipes