This herb-seasoned baked ham recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. The combination of savory herbs and spices enhances the natural flavors of the ham, creating a delicious centerpiece for your meal.
The seasoning is simple to prepare and can be adjusted to suit your taste. This recipe will guide you through the process of seasoning and baking a ham to perfection.
Creating the Perfect Glaze
The glaze is what transforms a simple baked ham into a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Combining brown sugar and honey creates a sweet, sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Adding Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar introduces a tangy depth, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and a mix of herbs like thyme and rosemary elevates the dish, making each bite memorable.
Preparing the Ham
Start with a fully cooked bone-in ham, which ensures a juicy and flavorful result.
Scoring the surface in a diamond pattern not only adds visual appeal but also allows the glaze to seep into the meat, infusing it with flavor.
Position the ham on a roasting rack in a large pan to allow even cooking and easy basting throughout the baking process.
Baking to Perfection
Preheating the oven to 325°F (165°C) sets the stage for a slow and even bake.
Covering the ham with aluminum foil during the first part of the baking process helps retain moisture, ensuring the ham remains juicy.
Remember to baste the ham with the glaze every 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to build and the exterior to develop a beautiful caramelized finish.
Serving Suggestions
Once the ham is cooked to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.
Serve the ham on a festive platter, garnished with fresh herbs, and surround it with colorful side dishes like roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes for a stunning presentation.
Creating a Festive Atmosphere
The dining table plays a crucial role in the overall experience of the meal.
Set the table with warm, inviting decor that complements the holiday spirit.
Consider using seasonal centerpieces, elegant dinnerware, and soft lighting to create a cozy atmosphere that invites guests to gather and enjoy.
Pairing with Sides
Complement the rich flavors of the glazed ham with a variety of side dishes.
Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, while mashed potatoes provide a comforting, creamy contrast.
Consider adding a tangy cranberry sauce or a fresh salad to balance the meal and enhance the dining experience.
Easy Herb-Seasoned Ham Recipe
This baked ham is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and juicy dish. The recipe takes about 2 hours from start to finish and serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare the Ham: Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
- Glaze the Ham: Brush the glaze generously over the surface of the ham, making sure to get it into the scored areas.
- Bake the Ham: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes to allow the ham to caramelize.
- Check for Doneness: The ham is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g