Coca-Cola Ham
A tender, flavorful ham cooked in Coca-Cola, resulting in a sweet and savory glaze that is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole ham, trimmed of all fat ⓘ
Instructions
- Place the trimmed ham inside a brown paper grocery sack which has been placed in a large baking pan.
- Pour Coca-Cola over the ham inside the sack.
- Fold and staple the sack closed.
- Bake at 350°F until done, according to the weight of the ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful ham, consider adding spices like black pepper or cloves to the Coca-Cola before pouring it over the meat. If you don't have a brown paper sack, aluminum foil works as a substitute. Make sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F for safe consumption. For added richness, you can brush the ham with a glaze of honey or brown sugar during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Coca-Cola ham with classic sides like Bama Baked Beans and a fresh Pasta Vegetable Salad for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs beautifully with Johnny Margetti for a hearty gathering. Consider offering a tangy coleslaw or roasted vegetables to complement the sweetness of the ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Coca-Cola ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and place it in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, then cover with foil. Heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Coca-Cola Ham contains roughly 36 calories, with 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 different soda instead of Coca-Cola?
Yes, you can experiment with other sodas like Dr. Pepper or root beer, which will impart different flavors to the ham. Each soda has its own unique sweetness and spice profile, so feel free to find what suits your taste best.
How long should I bake the ham?
Baking time depends on the weight of the ham, generally around 15-18 minutes per pound at 350°F. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safe eating.
Can I glaze the ham while baking?
Absolutely! For a beautiful finish, brush the ham with a glaze (like a mixture of brown sugar and mustard) during the last 30 minutes of baking. This adds a lovely caramelized layer and enhances the overall flavor.
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).