Why Make This Recipe
Glazed Baked Ham is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its rich flavors and beautiful glaze create a stunning centerpiece for holiday meals or family celebrations.
Everyone loves a savory ham, and this recipe is simple enough for cooks of all skill levels. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Equipment Needed for Glazed Baked Ham
To make this Glazed Baked Ham, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A large roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
- A medium saucepan
- A whisk
- A basting brush
- A meat thermometer
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A serving platter
What You Need to Make Glazed Baked Ham
To prepare this recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 11.5 lb fully cooked bone-in ham, spiral cut
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup dijon mustard
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
How to Cook Glazed Baked Ham Step by Step
Start by letting the ham sit covered at room temperature for about two hours before you begin roasting. This helps it cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) while placing the oven rack in the lower third of the oven.
Next, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apricot preserves, honey, brown sugar, dijon mustard, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer for one minute while whisking continuously. Once the glaze thickens slightly and becomes combined, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Now, line your roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the ham in the pan, cut side down. Use a basting brush to apply about one-third of the glaze on the ham, covering it evenly. Once coated, cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for approximately 10 to 11 minutes per pound. For an 11.5 lb ham, this will take about two hours.
After two hours, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Again, brush another one-third of the glaze all over the ham. Return the pan to the oven, keeping it uncovered this time, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step will help caramelize the glaze.
Once the 10 minutes are up, brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Roast it uncovered for another 10 minutes, watching closely until the glaze forms a beautiful brown crust and the internal temperature reaches around 130-135°F (54-57°C).
When the ham is done, carefully transfer it to a serving dish and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. Serve your Glazed Baked Ham alongside the strained pan juices for extra flavor.
How to Make Glazed Baked Ham
Making Glazed Baked Ham is straightforward and rewarding. With a little preparation and attention, you can achieve a magnificent ham that will be the star of your meal. Start by ensuring your cooking space is ready and all ingredients are on hand.
Follow the instructions closely, as this will guarantee success. Don’t rush the process — allowing the ham to rest after cooking is crucial for maximum flavor. Once served, watch your family and friends enjoy every bite, complimenting your delicious creation.
How to Serve Glazed Baked Ham
When serving Glazed Baked Ham, presentation plays a key role. Slice the ham into even pieces and arrange them on a beautiful serving platter. Drizzle some of the warmed pan juices over the slices to enhance their flavor and make them look even more appetizing.
Consider garnishing the plate with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for added color. You could also serve small bowls of extra glaze or a selection of mustards on the side to allow guests to customize their meals.
What to Serve with Glazed Baked Ham
Glazed Baked Ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Classic accompaniments include:
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Honey-glazed carrots
- Cornbread or rolls
- Coleslaw or a fresh green salad
These sides balance the rich, sweet flavors of the ham, creating a well-rounded meal that is satisfying and memorable.
How to Store Glazed Baked Ham
Storing Glazed Baked Ham is easy. Once you’ve finished serving, allow any leftover ham to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Alternatively, you can place the ham in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have a larger amount of leftovers, consider freezing portions. Wrap each slice individually, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ham can last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Glazed Baked Ham
Here are a few simple tips to ensure your Glazed Baked Ham turns out perfectly:
- Always let the ham come to room temperature before cooking. This promotes even cooking throughout.
- Use a baster to apply the glaze, ensuring every inch is covered evenly.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time, as oven temperatures can vary, and it’s vital to reach the correct internal temperature.
- For a unique twist, feel free to experiment with different types of fruit preserves or glazes based on your tastes.
Variation
For those who prefer a different flavor profile, consider substitutions in the glaze. You can experiment with other fruit preserves like peach, pineapple, or even a pomegranate glaze for a tart sweetness. Adding spices such as cinnamon or cloves to the glaze can also enhance its complexity and create a deeper flavor.
Best Time to Make Glazed Baked Ham
Glazed Baked Ham is perfect for holidays and special occasions. Many people love serving it during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. However, don’t hesitate to prepare it for casual gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners throughout the year. It’s a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Glazed Baked Ham, there are common mistakes to watch for. One is cooking the ham at too high a temperature — always stick to lower temperatures to maintain moisture.
Another mistake is not allowing the ham to rest after cooking. Rushing this step can lead to dry slices. Also, be mindful of over-glazing, which can create a burnt glaze if not monitored properly in the oven. Lastly, ensure your ham is fully cooked before serving, using a meat thermometer to check.
Nutritional Notes
Glazed Baked Ham is rich in flavor but also brings a fair amount of calories and sodium. However, it provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc.
To enjoy this dish healthily, consider pairing it with fresh vegetables and whole grains.
FAQs
1. Can I make Glazed Baked Ham ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze and even cook the ham a day ahead. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.
2. What is the best type of ham for glazing?
A fully cooked bone-in ham is ideal because it retains moisture and offers great flavor.
3. How do I know when the ham is done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C) for optimal flavor and safety.
Conclusion
Glazed Baked Ham is a timeless recipe that will delight your guests and make any meal feel special. It’s straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and effort yet yielding impressive results.
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish is bound to impress. With the right preparation and attention to detail, your Glazed Baked Ham will be a hit, leaving everyone asking for more.
Glazed Baked Ham
Ingredients
Method
- Start by letting the ham sit covered at room temperature for about two hours.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and place the oven rack in the lower third.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apricot preserves, honey, brown sugar, dijon mustard, and unsalted butter.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for one minute, whisking continuously until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Line your roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the ham cut side down in the pan and apply about one-third of the glaze with a basting brush.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 10 to 11 minutes per pound, totaling about two hours.
- After two hours, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) and brush another one-third of the glaze over the ham.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Finally, brush the remaining glaze over the ham and roast it uncovered for another 10 minutes, monitoring to achieve a brown crust and an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Once done, transfer the ham to a serving dish and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.
- Serve alongside strained pan juices for extra flavor.
