Old-Fashioned Baked Ham
Old-Fashioned Baked Ham is a classic, hearty dish featuring tender ham glazed with a sweet and tangy mixture, topped with pineapple slices and cherries for a colorful presentation. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, it offers a delightful combination of flavors that pleases a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple slices, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice; set aside.
- Place ham in a baking pan and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Combine brown sugar, ground cloves, dry mustard, and vinegar in a small bowl.
- Stir in the reserved pineapple juice to make the glaze.
- Score the surface of the ham and arrange pineapple slices and maraschino cherries on top.
- Spoon the glaze over the fruit and ham.
- Bake for an additional 40 to 45 minutes, basting occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the glaze. If you don't have dry mustard, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be milder. When scoring the ham, make shallow cuts to allow the glaze to penetrate better. This recipe can be adapted for different meats; try it with roast pork loin for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Old-Fashioned Baked Ham with classic sides like mashed potatoes or Cindy's Baked Beans for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with green beans or a fresh salad to balance the sweetness of the glaze. For a festive touch, garnish each slice with maraschino cherries and pineapple for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave slices for a quick option. Ensure the ham doesn’t dry out by adding a little water to the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Baked Ham contains roughly 1018 calories, with 1g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g 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 ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pre-cooked ham, such as honey-baked or smoked ham. Adjust the baking time according to the size of the ham. Just ensure it is fully heated through before serving.
How can I make the glaze thicker?
To thicken the glaze, you can simmer it in a small saucepan over low heat until it reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cook until thickened.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ham and glaze a day in advance. Assemble everything and refrigerate, then bake the next day. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).