Baked Ham In Paper Bag
Juicy, flavorful baked ham wrapped in paper bags creates a tender, smoky dish perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a unique cooking method and rustic charm.
Ingredients
- ham ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a suitable temperature (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Place the ham in a brown paper grocery bag.
- Wrap the ham securely in the paper bag, ensuring it's well sealed to retain moisture and flavor.
- Place the paper-wrapped ham on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until heated through and tender.
- Remove from oven and carefully unwrap the paper bag.
- Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose a bone-in ham for added flavor and moisture. If you don’t have a brown paper bag, aluminum foil can work as a substitute, but it won’t retain moisture as well. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs or spices to the ham before wrapping. This method also works well for other meats in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the baked ham and serve it with a side of warm potato salad for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Scurry Supper Casserole or roasted vegetables. Consider offering a tangy glaze or sauce on the side to enhance the ham's flavor. Leftover ham is also great in sandwiches or salads.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ham In Paper Bag contains roughly 3 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a precooked ham for this recipe?
Yes, using a precooked ham is ideal as it only needs to be heated through. Just adjust the baking time according to the size of the ham, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.
What should I do if I don't have a paper bag?
If a paper bag isn't available, you can wrap the ham in aluminum foil instead. While foil may not retain moisture as effectively, it will still help to keep the ham tender. Make sure to seal it tightly.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham to ensure it’s heated through and tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).