Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to wow your family and friends, this ham recipe for Thanksgiving is the way to go! There’s something so special about a beautifully glazed ham taking center stage on the dining table, and trust me, this recipe will have everyone raving. The sweet and savory glaze, combined with the tenderness of the ham, creates a dish that’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a big gathering, this ham will bring everyone together, making it the star of your holiday celebration. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this Thanksgiving unforgettable!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole ham (8-10 pounds), bone-in for maximum flavor
- 1 cup packed brown sugar, to create a sweet and caramelized glaze
- 1/2 cup honey, adding a natural sweetness that complements the ham
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, for a tangy kick
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves, for warm, aromatic notes
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, to bring a hint of warmth and spice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, just enough to add a subtle bite
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is going to set the stage for that beautifully cooked ham!
- Next, take your whole ham and score the surface in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze seep in and gives it that gorgeous presentation.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper. This mixture is going to be the star of the show, so give it a good stir until it’s well blended.
- Now, brush this sweet and tangy glaze all over the ham, making sure to get into those scored areas. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with foil. This helps keep it moist while it bakes.
- Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to baste it every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the pan. It’s like giving the ham a little spa treatment!
- For the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil to let the glaze caramelize and turn that beautiful golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C). Once it’s done, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This will keep all those delicious juices inside!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet brown sugar, honey, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a glaze that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning centerpiece without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for large family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the glaze in advance, so all you need to do is bake the ham on the big day!
- Versatile Dish: This ham pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to fresh green beans, ensuring a well-rounded meal.
- Leftover Perfection: The leftovers are just as delicious, perfect for sandwiches or a hearty breakfast the next day.
Tips for Success
To ensure your ham turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, always choose a bone-in ham; it adds so much flavor and moisture. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or honey to your liking—just remember, balance is key! Keep an eye on the internal temperature; using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out. Lastly, let the ham rest after baking; this step is crucial for locking in those delicious juices that’ll make every slice succulent and tender. You got this!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious ham recipe for Thanksgiving. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on specific brands or measurements you use. But this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
So, when you’re enjoying this festive dish, you can feel good knowing it’s packed with flavor and has a satisfying balance of nutrients. Perfect for sharing with loved ones!
FAQ Section
Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a pre-cooked ham can save you time and still yield delicious results. Just adjust the baking time since it only needs to be heated through and glazed.
What’s the best way to slice the ham?
For the best slices, make sure to use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This will ensure tender, juicy pieces that are easy to chew.
How can I store leftovers?
Place leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it tightly!
What sides pair well with the ham?
This ham recipe for Thanksgiving goes wonderfully with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a vibrant salad. You can’t go wrong with a classic!
Can I make the glaze a day ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before brushing it on the ham.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious ham, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to keep that amazing flavor intact! Start by allowing the ham to cool to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also place it in an airtight container. This way, your leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze the ham! Just slice it into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, I recommend using the oven to keep the ham moist and flavorful. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C), place the ham in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). You can also add a little bit of broth or water to the dish to create steam, which helps keep it juicy. Enjoy every bite of your lovely holiday ham again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your stunning ham is ready to steal the show, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! Pairing the right sides can elevate your Thanksgiving meal and create a beautiful balance of flavors. Here are a few of my favorite side dishes that go perfectly with this ham recipe:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with a classic! The buttery, smooth potatoes are the perfect complement to the sweet and savory ham.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A touch of caramelization brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delightful pairing with the glaze on the ham.
- Green Bean Casserole: This comforting dish adds a crunchy topping and a creamy texture that perfectly contrasts with the ham.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the ham and adds a festive pop of color to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: With its brown sugar and pecan topping, this dish harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the glazed ham.
- Homemade Bread Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze—trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded meal that your guests will be talking about long after the last bite. Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!
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Ham Recipes for Thanksgiving: 7 Irresistible Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious ham recipe perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole ham (8–10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Mix brown sugar, honey, mustard, vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper in a bowl.
- Brush the mixture over the ham, making sure to get into the scored areas.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Choose a bone-in ham for more flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: ham recipes for thanksgiving, holiday ham, glazed ham
