Delicious Oven-Baked Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Share the page to

Let's be honest, there's something truly satisfying about a perfectly cooked ham. It's a dish that always brings people together, whether it's a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just a casual weeknight dinner. Over the years, I've perfected my oven-baked ham technique, and I'm thrilled to share it with you. It's not complicated, but there are a few key points that make all the difference. So grab your apron, get ready to learn a few tricks, and let's create a truly delicious ham together!

(Part 1) Picking the perfect ham: Your Culinary Starting Point

Delicious Oven-Baked Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the right ham is like choosing the right foundation for a house – you want it to be solid and flavorful. There's a whole world of hams out there, so let's break down the key factors to help you pick the perfect one for your needs.

1.1 types of ham: Spiral-Sliced vs. Bone-In

The first big decision is whether to go for a spiral-sliced or bone-in ham. spiral-sliced hams are already expertly sliced, making them super convenient for carving and serving. It's perfect for a quick meal or a crowd, because you can easily slice off portions for everyone.

Bone-in hams, on the other hand, are a bit more traditional and often give a deeper, more intense flavor. They're also typically more economical. I personally love the flavor of a bone-in ham, and there's something satisfying about carving it – it feels like a ritual, a bit like a special event. Plus, it adds a beautiful presentation to your table.

1.2 Fresh vs. Cured: Knowing Your Ham's History

Next, you'll need to consider whether you want a fresh or cured ham. fresh hams are uncooked and require thorough cooking, while cured hams are already seasoned and typically just need to be warmed through. For baking, you'll almost always be using a cured ham, either a whole "ham" or a "ham steak." Cured hams are often labeled as "pre-cooked" or "ready-to-eat" because they've already gone through the curing process. This makes them perfect for quick meals and special occasions, because they don't need to be cooked to a specific temperature, just reheated.

1.3 Size and Weight: Planning for Your Guests

Size definitely matters when it comes to ham! You need to choose a ham that will be big enough to feed your guests comfortably. If you're having a small gathering, a smaller ham will do. But if you're expecting a crowd, go for a larger one. Always check the weight of the ham, as it's a good indicator of its size. A general rule of thumb is to allow about 1/2 pound per person for a satisfying meal. This should ensure there's enough for everyone to enjoy and have some leftovers.

(Part 2) Getting Ready to Bake: Preparing Your Ham for Oven Glory

Delicious Oven-Baked Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you've got your perfect ham, it's time to get it ready for the oven. This part might seem simple, but a few key steps make all the difference in achieving that beautiful, juicy, and flavorful outcome.

2.1 Removing the Packaging: A Clean Start

First, take your ham out of its packaging. If you're working with a bone-in ham, you might need to remove the netting that's wrapped around it. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to carefully cut it away, being sure not to cut yourself. Don't worry if a few strands remain, you can always remove them later. Now, take a moment to examine your ham. If you notice any particularly thick areas, it's a good idea to make a few shallow cuts into those spots. This helps the ham cook more evenly, ensuring that all parts get tender and juicy.

2.2 Scoring the Ham: Unleashing Flavor and Enhancing Appearance

Scoring your ham is completely optional, but it's a simple technique that can elevate your ham's flavor and appearance. It involves making criss-cross cuts across the surface of the ham. This allows the fat to render out, giving your ham a beautiful, crispy crust. Don't be shy! Get creative with your scoring pattern, but make sure the cuts are deep enough to reach the fat layer. This will create those delicious, crispy edges.

(Part 3) Creating the Perfect Glaze: The Secret to Flavorful Shine

Delicious Oven-Baked Ham: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's where things get exciting! The glaze is what truly brings out the best in your ham. It gives it that incredible shine and adds an extra layer of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. There are countless glaze recipes out there, but I've found that a simple honey-mustard glaze is a classic for a reason – it's a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.

3.1 Ingredients for the Honey-Mustard Glaze

  1. 1/2 cup honey
  2. 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  3. 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  5. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3.2 Instructions for the Honey-Mustard Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan, combine all of the ingredients.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  3. As the glaze simmers, it will thicken. Continue stirring until the glaze is smooth and reaches the desired consistency.
  4. Once the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.

This glaze is ready to use, but we'll get to that in a bit. Now, let's move on to preparing the oven.

(Part 4) Preheat the Oven: Setting the Stage for Baking Perfection

While the glaze is cooling, it's time to preheat your oven. You'll want to preheat it to 325°F (160°C). This medium heat is ideal for baking ham. It allows the ham to cook through thoroughly without drying out, ensuring a juicy and tender outcome.

(Part 5) Baking Your Ham: Bringing the Flavors Together

Okay, everything is prepped and ready! Now it's time to bake our ham. This is the part where all your hard work comes together, and your kitchen will soon be filled with those incredible aromas of baking ham.

5.1 Placing the Ham in the Oven: Ensuring Even Cooking

Place your ham in a large roasting pan or baking dish. You can use a rack to elevate the ham, but it's not essential. The goal is to make sure heat circulates evenly around the ham. Now, here's a tip: you can either pour the glaze over the ham or brush it on. I prefer to brush it on because it gives me more control over the coverage, ensuring every part of the ham gets coated evenly. If you're using a spiral-sliced ham, make sure to brush the glaze between the slices so that the flavor penetrates throughout the ham.

5.2 Baking Time: A Guide for Success

Now, here comes the part that might seem tricky: baking time. It depends on the size of your ham, so it's important to factor that in. As a general rule, allow about 15-20 minutes per pound of ham. But this is just a rough guideline. I always recommend checking the ham's internal temperature to be absolutely sure it's cooked through. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

5.3 Basting the Ham: Keeping it Moist and Delicious

While the ham is baking, you'll want to baste it every 30 minutes or so. This will help to keep the ham moist, preventing it from drying out, and give it that beautiful, glazed finish. Use the remaining glaze or even a bit of water or juice to baste the ham. You can also use a basting brush for a more precise application. This simple step ensures your ham stays juicy and develops that delectable glaze.

5.4 Checking for Doneness: Making Sure It's Perfectly Cooked

As the ham nears the end of its baking time, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the ham, away from any bones. If you're using a bone-in ham, you can also check for doneness by looking at the bone. If the bone is loose, it means the ham is fully cooked. Once the ham reaches 145°F (63°C), it's ready to be taken out of the oven.

(Part 6) Resting the Ham: Let It Settle and Redistribute Flavors

Don't be tempted to dig into the ham right away! Give it a chance to rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, making it even more tender and flavorful. While the ham is resting, take advantage of the time to prepare your side dishes. Maybe a creamy potato gratin, a delicious green bean casserole, or a classic macaroni and cheese. The possibilities are endless, and the aroma of your baking ham will inspire your creativity.

(Part 7) Carving the Ham: A Skill That Impresses

Now that your ham has had a chance to rest, it's time for the grand reveal! Carving a ham can seem a bit intimidating, but it's really not that hard. Just remember a few key points, and you'll be slicing up your ham like a pro in no time.

7.1 Carving a Spiral-Sliced Ham: Easy and Convenient

For spiral-sliced ham, it's incredibly simple. Just use a sharp knife to cut down between the slices. A carving knife is ideal because it has a long, thin blade that effortlessly glides through the ham. Simply cut between each slice, and you'll have perfectly cut pieces of ham ready to be served. It's really straightforward and convenient.

7.2 Carving a Bone-In Ham: A culinary adventure

Now, with a bone-in ham, it's a bit more of an adventure, but it's still manageable. The bone is your guide. You'll need to cut around the bone to release the slices. Start by cutting down the center of the ham, parallel to the bone. Then, cut slices perpendicular to the bone, following the curve of the bone. You can be creative and carve different shapes and sizes, depending on your preference. Just remember to always cut away from yourself and use a sharp knife for precise cuts.

(Part 8) Serving the Ham: A Moment to Celebrate

And there you have it, your beautiful, juicy oven-baked ham! Now it's time to serve it up. I like to arrange the ham on a platter and surround it with my favorite sides. Don't forget to have plenty of napkins on hand, as your guests will be tempted to go back for more. It's also a good idea to have a little extra glaze on the side, just in case anyone wants to add a little more sweetness and shine to their ham.

(Part 9) Leftovers: Delicious Possibilities

Leftovers? Don't worry, if you have any leftover ham, there's no need to feel guilty. It's actually a blessing, because there are so many delicious ways to use leftover ham. It's a versatile ingredient that can add a touch of flavor and protein to a variety of dishes.

9.1 ham sandwiches: A Classic Comfort

A classic ham sandwich is always a winner! Simply slice the leftover ham, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. You can use a variety of breads, from crusty sourdough to soft brioche, and add cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, mustard, and mayonnaise to create your ideal sandwich.

9.2 Ham Salad: A Light and Refreshing Option

Chop up the leftover ham and combine it with mayonnaise, mustard, onion, celery, and your favorite seasonings for a delicious and refreshing ham salad. Serve it on bread, crackers, or in lettuce wraps for a lighter meal. This is a great option for a quick lunch or dinner.

9.3 ham and cheese quiche: A Savory and Flavorful Treat

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, make a ham and cheese quiche. Combine the leftover ham with eggs, milk, cheese, and your favorite vegetables, bake it in a pie crust, and enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish. This is a perfect option for brunch or dinner.

9.4 ham soup: A Warm and Comforting Meal

Leftover ham can be transformed into a delicious and comforting soup. Simply add the ham to a pot of broth with your favorite vegetables and spices. You can use chicken broth, beef broth, or even vegetable broth, depending on your preference. This is a warm and satisfying meal that is perfect for a chilly day.

9.5 Storage Tips: Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store any leftover ham, make sure to keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to use frozen ham, thaw it in the fridge overnight before using. This ensures that it's safe to eat and retains its flavor and texture.

(Part 10) FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you might have some questions about this whole ham-baking process, so let's address a few common ones.

10.1 Can I use a different glaze?

Absolutely! The honey-mustard glaze is just a suggestion. Feel free to explore different flavors and experiment with your own glaze creations. There are so many delicious options available, like brown sugar glaze, pineapple glaze, or a simple maple syrup glaze. You can also add spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to your glaze for added warmth and complexity.

10.2 Can I bake a ham in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! A slow cooker is a great option for making a tender and flavorful ham. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. It typically takes about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The advantage of a slow cooker is that you don't have to monitor the ham as closely. Simply let it cook away until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

10.3 What are the best side dishes for ham?

Ham pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

  1. Creamy mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food that complements the savory flavors of ham.
  2. Green bean casserole: A creamy and cheesy side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your meal.
  3. sweet potato casserole: A sweet and savory side dish that contrasts beautifully with the salty flavors of ham.
  4. baked mac and cheese: A hearty and comforting side dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
  5. fruit salad: A fresh and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of ham.
  6. Bread, rolls, and crackers: A perfect accompaniment for serving with your ham and side dishes.

10.4 How do I know if the ham is cooked properly?

The best way to check if the ham is cooked properly is to use a meat thermometer. The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by looking at the bone. If the bone is loose, it means the ham is fully cooked.

10.5 How long can I store leftover ham?

You can store leftover ham in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze leftover ham for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw the ham in the fridge overnight before using.

(Part 11) Conclusion: A Delicious Culinary Adventure Awaits

There you have it, my complete guide to making delicious oven-baked ham. It's a dish that always impresses, whether you're serving it to family, friends, or a special someone. So, choose your favorite ham, get ready to create a masterpiece in your kitchen, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Happy baking!