Stuffed Fresh Ham
A hearty stuffed ham with Italian sausage, perfect for festive gatherings or special occasions, offering savory, juicy flavors with a tender, flavorful center.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the ham into a roasting pan and surround with water.
- Cook in a 400°F oven for about 2 hours.
- Remove the ham from the oven.
- Strip sausage meat from casings and stuff the pocket of the ham with the sausage meat.
- Add more water to the pan if needed.
- Return the ham to the oven and cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 1 hour longer.
- When the ham is done, drain the juice from the pan into a can or pot.
- Place the juice in the refrigerator for 1/2 hour.
- Remove the fat that has risen to the top.
- Use the juice to make pork gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the water in the roasting pan. If Italian sausage isn't available, you can substitute with any flavorful sausage of your choice. Ensure the ham has a pocket deep enough to hold a generous amount of stuffing for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed ham makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering. Serve it alongside a Cold Vegetable Medley Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also pair it with cheesy potatoes for a hearty meal or use the leftovers creatively in dishes like Ham And Pasta Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed ham should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, ensuring it doesn't dry out. You can also use the leftover meat in salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Fresh Ham contains roughly 83 calories, with 4g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 7g 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 fresh ham?
Yes, you can use pork loin or a bone-in pork shoulder as alternatives, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the meat is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature to guarantee safety and tenderness.
What should I do if I can't find Italian sausage?
If Italian sausage isn't available, feel free to use any other type of sausage that you enjoy, such as bratwurst or chorizo. Just be mindful of the seasoning, as spicy sausages may alter the flavor profile.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
To ensure the ham is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F for safe consumption. The meat should also no longer be pink in the center for optimal taste and safety.
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).