Simple Baked Ham
This simple baked ham features a sweet and savory glaze of brown sugar and pineapple, creating a tender, flavorful centerpiece perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. Its caramelized exterior and juicy interior make it a crowd-pleaser suited for any celebration or casual meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Select an appropriately sized baking pan.
- Lay aluminum foil in the pan and place the ham on top of the foil.
- Spread the brown sugar and pineapple on top of the ham.
- Wrap the foil around the ham to cover it completely.
- Bake in the oven at 350° to 400° Fahrenheit for about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Pour a little water around the ham during baking to prevent burning at the bottom, if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider glazing the ham with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before adding the brown sugar and pineapple. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. Keep an eye on the ham during baking; if it starts to get too dark, cover it loosely with foil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ham with sides like Ranch Potatoes for a hearty meal or a refreshing Vegetable Salad(Very Good) to balance the richness. It also pairs wonderfully with sweet and tangy sides like Beans And Onions, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked 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 pineapple juice or water, then cover with foil and heat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Baked Ham contains roughly 76 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 fresh ham instead of a precooked ham?
Yes, you can use a fresh ham, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. A fresh ham requires a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked. Aim for about 20 minutes per pound at 325°F, and use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
What can I do if I don't have crushed pineapple?
If you don't have crushed pineapple, you can substitute it with diced fresh pineapple or canned pineapple chunks. Just make sure to crush them slightly before using, or you can use a similar sweet fruit, like apricot preserves, for a different flavor twist.
How do I know when the ham is done baking?
The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for precooked ham or 145°F for fresh ham. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham, ensuring it is heated through without being overcooked.
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).