Honey Baked Ham
Honey baked ham offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, with a glossy honey glaze and aromatic spices. Ideal for festive gatherings or special occasions, this dish impresses with its tender meat and flavorful crust, appealing to both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a sharp knife, remove the layer of skin from the ham, leaving a thin layer of fat to keep the meat juicy while baking.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat.
- Place a whole clove in the center of half the diamonds.
- Brush the top of the ham with Dijon mustard.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and bake according to your preferred method.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful glaze, consider adding maple syrup or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste. If you want to reduce the sweetness, use less honey or opt for a sugar substitute. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle some crushed garlic or ginger into the glaze mixture. If you have leftovers, try using them in a sandwich or with a side of Quick Beer Rolls for a delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the honey baked ham with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp Delicious Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider pairing it with homemade rolls or biscuits to soak up the flavorful juices. This dish also works well as a centerpiece for holiday gatherings, making it a wonderful option for festive celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover honey baked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. When reheating, place the ham in a covered dish with a bit of apple juice or water to keep it moist, and heat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Baked Ham contains roughly 486 calories, with 2g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 mustard?
Yes, you can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or even a sweet mustard if you prefer a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste of the glaze may change slightly depending on the mustard you choose.
How do I know when the ham is done cooking?
A ready-to-eat ham should be heated to an internal temperature of 140°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. If you're starting with a raw ham, it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F before resting for at least three minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham and apply the glaze the day before. Simply cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it the next day. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the ham even more delicious when served.
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).