Gift-Wrapped Ham
A savory gift-wrapped ham featuring a flaky pie crust filled with seasoned ham, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, offering a delightful combination of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut out the corners of the pie crust to form a cross.
- Brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with parsley flakes, dry mustard, and ground sage.
- Place the ham on the center of the cross and fold up the sides of the crust to cover the ham.
- Pinch the edges to seal the crust around the ham.
- Brush the top of the crust with beaten egg.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding a layer of your favorite cheese before wrapping the ham in the pie crust. If you don’t have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a great substitute. Always ensure your ham is fully cooked before baking, as this dish is more about warming through and achieving a golden crust. For a more rustic appearance, leave the edges of the crust slightly frayed.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw for added texture. For a complete spread, you might also want to include sides inspired by other American recipes, like Tennessee Baked Ham or Bacon-Wrapped Scallops With Lemon-Chive Sauce, to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Gift-Wrapped Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ham in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the crust from burning. Alternatively, you can slice the ham and microwave it in short bursts.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gift-Wrapped Ham contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 type of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian filling such as a hearty mixture of vegetables and cheese. Just ensure that the meat or alternative is pre-cooked if necessary, as the pie crust needs time to bake and brown.
What can I use instead of a pie crust?
If you don't have a pie crust, you can use puff pastry or phyllo dough for a lighter texture. Be sure to adjust the baking time, as these alternatives may cook faster than a traditional pie crust. You can also try making a homemade crust with flour and butter for a tailored approach.
How do I know when the ham is done baking?
The ham should be heated through and the crust should be golden brown, typically after 50 to 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the ham should reach around 140°F (60°C). Keep an eye on the crust to prevent over-browning.
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).