Why Make This Recipe
Baking ham in the oven is a classic way to enjoy this flavorful dish. It’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even just a weekend dinner. The sweet and savory glaze adds a delightful touch that compliments the tender, juicy ham. Plus, it is simple to prepare and feeds a crowd.
How to Make Ham in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in fully cooked ham, 8 to 10 lb
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Directions
- Remove the ham from the refrigerator and score the surface in a shallow diamond pattern.
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and place the ham in a roasting pan.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 15 minutes per pound.
- In a small saucepan, simmer brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, mustard, cloves, pepper, and butter until smooth and combined.
- After two-thirds of the cooking time, uncover the ham and brush it generously with the glaze.
- Continue baking uncovered, basting every 15 minutes to keep the ham moist and flavorful.
- Heat the ham until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees F.
- Allow the ham to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Ham in Oven
Serve the ham warm with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or dinner rolls. You can also slice it up for sandwiches, making it a versatile meal choice. Some enjoy it with a sweet mustard dip or paired with fresh fruits.
How to Store Ham in Oven
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. Leftover ham can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. You can also freeze ham slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Ham in Oven
- Make sure to score the surface of the ham; this helps the glaze stick and flavor the meat.
- Basting often keeps your ham moist and enhances the flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and to ensure the ham is heated through properly.
Variation
You can experiment with different glazes, such as maple syrup or apple cider, instead of using pineapple juice and honey. Adding crushed garlic or herbs can also give a unique twist to the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
A: Yes, this recipe is designed for fully cooked ham, which is common and convenient.
Q: How do I know when the ham is done cooking?
A: Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 140 degrees F for safety and the best eating quality.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and simply bake the ham when you’re ready to serve it.
