baked ham recipe

There is nothing quite like the sight of a glistening, golden-brown baked ham sitting at the center of a holiday table. Whether it is for Easter, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner, a perfectly baked ham brings a sense of warmth and tradition to any gathering. The combination of savory meat and a sweet, sticky glaze is a timeless flavor profile that appeals to everyone from kids to adults.

Making a baked ham is surprisingly simple, yet it yields impressive results. It is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward main dish. By following a few easy steps, you can transform a standard store-bought ham into a gourmet masterpiece that tastes like it came from a high-end deli. Let’s get started on creating a juicy, flavorful ham that your family will talk about for years to home.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Servings: 12 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 345 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 1,150mg

Why Make This baked ham recipe

This baked ham recipe is a winner because it balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The glaze, made with brown sugar and honey, creates a beautiful caramelized crust that locks in the juices. Unlike pre-glazed hams from the store, making your own allows you to control the ingredients and ensure the flavor is fresh and vibrant.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It is large enough to feed a crowd, making it perfect for parties. Plus, the leftovers are incredible! You can use the extra ham for sandwiches, omelets, or even split pea soup, making it a very economical choice for meal planning.

How to Make baked ham recipe

Preparing this dish is mostly about timing and patience. You will start by prepping the meat, letting it roast slowly to stay tender, and then finishing it with a delicious homemade glaze for that signature shine.

Ingredients

• 1 bone-in fully cooked smoked ham (8-10 lbs)
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Whole cloves (optional, for decoration)

Directions

Step 1: Preparation and Scoring

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the ham from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. If desired, press a whole clove into the center of each diamond for a classic look and extra aroma.

Step 2: Initial Roasting

Place the ham in a roasting pan, flat-side down. Pour the pineapple juice into the bottom of the pan to keep the environment moist. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the meat from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F.

Step 3: Creating the Glaze

While the ham is roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to bubble slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Glazing and Finishing

Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Remove the ham from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Generously brush about half of the glaze over the entire surface of the ham. Return it to the oven, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Brush with the remaining glaze and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

Step 5: Resting and Slicing

Remove the ham from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist. Carve and serve warm.

How to Serve baked ham recipe

Baked ham pairs beautifully with classic side dishes. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or a crisp green bean casserole. For a brighter touch, a side of cranberry sauce or a fresh apple salad provides a lovely contrast to the salty meat. Don’t forget some dinner rolls to soak up any extra glaze on the plate!

How to Store baked ham recipe

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze sliced ham or the entire bone for up to 2 months. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through to prevent drying.

Expert Tips for Perfect baked ham recipe

Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; overcooking is the main cause of dry ham. Another tip is to keep the ham covered for the majority of the cooking time to retain moisture. Finally, don’t skip the resting period! Resting is crucial for a juicy result when you finally slice into the meat.

Delicious Variations

You can easily customize the glaze to suit your taste. Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, woodsy sweetness. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the glaze. You can also swap the pineapple juice for orange juice or apple cider to change the acidity and fruit notes of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I buy a bone-in or boneless ham?

A bone-in ham usually has better flavor and texture. Plus, you can use the bone later to make delicious soups or stocks.

Q: How much ham should I allow per person?

Plan for about 3/4 pound of bone-in ham per person, or 1/2 pound if you are using a boneless ham.

: Can I make the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze up to two days in advance. Just store it in the fridge and gently reheat it on the stove before brushing it onto the ham.

Q: Do I need to wash the ham before cooking?

No, you should not wash the ham. Simply pat it dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick better to the surface.

Q: What is the safe internal temperature for ham?

Since most hams are sold fully cooked, you only need to heat it to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to ensure it is hot throughout.

Conclusion

This baked ham recipe is a foolproof way to create a stunning and delicious meal for your loved ones. With its perfect balance of sugar and spice, it is a dish that feels special every time it is served. Whether it is your first time roasting a ham or you are a seasoned pro, this method ensures a juicy, flavorful result that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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