Picture this: the holiday table is set, and the warm, inviting scent of glazed ham fills the air as family and friends gather around. There’s something about this sweet and savory centerpiece that commands attention, making it an unforgettable part of Thanksgiving dinner. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had guests ask for seconds, lured in by that glossy, caramelized crust.
This glazed ham isn’t just a dish; it’s a tradition, a symbol of togetherness that brings warmth and comfort during the chilly autumn months. Perfectly complemented by cranberry sauce and a medley of seasonal sides, it’s a beautiful balance of flavors that will wow both new and seasoned home cooks alike. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time making memories with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Join me as we delve into this classic recipe that elevates your Thanksgiving feast to new heights, ensuring that every bite is as memorable as the occasion itself!
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Ham
Irresistible Appeal: The glazed ham is a holiday showstopper, drawing everyone to the table with its tantalizing aroma and glossy finish.
Simple Preparation: With minimal effort, you can create a stunning centerpiece that enhances your Thanksgiving spread.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory glaze perfectly complements the rich, smoky flavor of the ham, creating a taste that’s truly unforgettable.
Versatile Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, ensuring a harmonious meal.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this ham is sure to impress, leaving guests asking for your secret recipe!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this glazed ham is an excellent choice for your Thanksgiving festivities!
Essential Glazed Ham Ingredients
For the Ham
- Bone-in Ham – Choose a fully cooked, bone-in ham for enhanced flavor and presentation.
- Brown Sugar – Creates the sweet base of the glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- Honey – Adds a rich sweetness; use local honey for a touch of unique flavor.
- Dijon Mustard – Balances the sweetness with a bit of tang; it can be substituted with yellow mustard if preferred.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens the glaze with acidity; substitute with white vinegar if necessary.
- Cloves – Studding the ham with whole cloves infuses it with warm, aromatic spices.
For the Glaze
- Maple Syrup – Enhances the overall sweetness and adds complexity to the flavor profile of the glaze.
- Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed juice brightens the glaze; you can use store-bought juice in a pinch.
- Water – Helps to adjust the consistency of the glaze; you can replace it with additional orange juice for more flavor.
Optional Garnishes
- Pineapple Slices – Lend a tropical sweetness; they can be placed around the ham for presentation as well.
- Fresh Herbs – Chopped rosemary or thyme provides a pop of color and aromatic freshness.
This glazed ham is sure to become a cherished centerpiece at your Thanksgiving gathering!
How to Make Glazed Ham
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Prepare the Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the bone-in ham in a roasting pan, cut side down, creating a perfect base for the glaze to enhance the flavor.
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Make the Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
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Glaze the Ham: Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring that it seeps into the scored areas. This step will create that delicious caramelized crust everyone loves.
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Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent burning. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
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Add Flavor with Cloves: During the last 30 minutes of baking, stud the ham with whole cloves for a wonderful aromatic infusion.
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Final Glaze: Remove the foil from the ham for the last 15 minutes of baking. Brush the remaining glaze on top for a beautiful shiny finish.
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Rest and Serve: Once fully cooked, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs and pineapple slices for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This savory glazed ham is perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time on Thanksgiving Day! You can prepare the glaze up to 48 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, if you wish to enhance flavors, you can score the ham and stud it with cloves the day before, keeping it wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the ham as directed, basting with the prepared glaze every 30 minutes to maintain that mouthwatering, caramelized crust. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a stress-free holiday feast with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Glazed Ham
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Choose Quality Ham: Select a fully cooked, bone-in ham for the richest flavor and optimal moisture retention. Freshness matters!
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Perfect Glaze Application: Applying half the glaze at the start creates a lovely caramelized crust. Reserve the other half for a final baste!
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Baste Frequently: Remember to baste the ham every 30 minutes while baking to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful, avoiding dryness.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness with a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 140°F for perfectly warmed glazed ham.
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Resting Time: Allow the ham to rest for 15 minutes after baking; this helps seal in the juices, making each slice tender and succulent.
These helpful tricks will guide you in preparing a stunning glazed ham for your Thanksgiving dinner!
Storage Tips for Glazed Ham
Fridge: Store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: If you have more leftovers, slice the ham and freeze in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove excess air for better preservation.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, avoiding dryness.
Serving Suggestions: Pair leftover glazed ham with fresh sides to create easy meals or sandwiches that keep the festive spirit alive!
What to Serve with Glazed Ham?
Creating the perfect holiday meal is all about balance, and pairing your glazed ham with delightful sides and drinks will elevate the experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of buttery mashed potatoes complements the sweet glaze, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast on the plate.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots echo the glaze of the ham, enhancing the overall sweetness and brightening the meal.
- Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds a satisfying crunch and creamy element, perfectly offsetting the smoothness of the ham.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls invite you to soak up the glaze and any drippings left behind, making every bite thoroughly satisfying.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a savory bite, balanced by the sweetness of the ham—a true flavor harmony.
- Fruit Salad: A vibrant, fresh fruit salad refreshes the palate, providing a light and delightful contrast to the hearty flavors.
- Pineapple Upside Down Cake: For dessert, this nostalgic favorite ties back to the ham’s tropical notes, ensuring a sweet ending to the feast.
- Sparkling Cider: A festive drink option, sparkling cider complements the meal without overpowering it, making it perfect for toast and celebration.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the savory-sweet notes of the ham for a sophisticated touch.
Glazed Ham Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to tweak the traditional glaze to suit your taste or dietary needs, creating a unique spin on this holiday favorite!
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Pineapple Glazed: Substitute honey with pineapple juice for a tropical twist that enhances sweetness beautifully.
Imagine a sweet and tangy flavor melding perfectly with the savory ham, creating a delightful contrast. -
Maple Mustard: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness paired with Dijon mustard for warmth.
This variation adds unique complexity, making every bite feel indulgent and special. -
Spicy Maple: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick!
This exciting twist elevates your dish, appealing to those who enjoy spicy flavors alongside sweet. -
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for aromatic freshness.
This flavorful addition enhances the overall profile, making your glazed ham even more aromatic and inviting. -
Cranberry Glaze: Mix in some cranberry sauce with your glaze to add a tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness.
The bright pop of cranberry not only provides flavor but also adds a stunning color to your holiday platter. -
Citrus Twist: Use lemon or lime juice instead of apple cider vinegar to lend a zesty brightness to the glaze.
This twist refreshes the flavor profile, making it vibrant and perfect for those who enjoy a tangy touch. -
Ginger Spice: Add freshly grated ginger to the glaze to give it an extra zing that integrates beautifully with the ham.
This warm spice brings depth, making each mouthful a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out. -
Whole Grain Mustard: Swap Dijon for whole grain mustard for added texture and a more robust flavor.
This variation not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch with each bite.
Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ham for glazing?
Absolutely! When choosing a ham, opt for a fully cooked, bone-in variety. Bone-in hams tend to have richer flavor and moisture compared to boneless options. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth and shiny surface free from any dark spots. A good hallmark of quality is that it should also be labeled as “natural” with no added preservatives or water.
What is the best way to store leftover glazed ham?
Very! Store leftover glazed ham in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you’ve got more than you can handle, slice it and place it in freezer bags to preserve for up to 2 months. Don’t forget to remove as much air as possible from the freezer bags for best preservation.
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Can I freeze glazed ham without losing quality?
Of course! To freeze glazed ham, first slice it into manageable portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag, squeezing out excess air. It can be stored this way for up to 2 months – just remember to label it! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How can I reheat leftover glazed ham without drying it out?
Great question! To avoid dryness, preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham slices in a baking dish, covering them with foil to retain moisture. Warm them for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For added flavor, you can brush a little extra glaze on top before reheating for that sweet, caramelized finish!
Is there a way to make this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free version, ensure that your Dijon mustard and any other flavor enhancers are labeled gluten-free. You can also adjust the sweetness by using lower-honey alternatives like agave syrup or even unsweetened apple sauce. Always check product labels to ensure compliance with any dietary concerns!
How can I enhance the glaze flavor for a unique touch?
Very! To elevate your glaze, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the mixture for a deeper flavor profile. You could also mix in spices like cinnamon, or for a zesty kick, some grated fresh ginger. Adjusting the balance of sweet to tangy can also create a beautiful flavor shift that’ll impress your guests!
Savory Glazed Ham Recipe for Your Perfect Holiday Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the bone-in ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it seeps into the scored areas.
- Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- During the last 30 minutes of baking, stud the ham with whole cloves.
- Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes of baking and brush the remaining glaze on top.
- Once fully cooked, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
