Baked ham is a beloved favorite in many households, and for good reason! The tender, juicy meat and the caramelized brown sugar glaze make it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a delicious meal, a baked ham is always a hit.
While some may argue that turkey steals the show during festive meals, ham often wins the popular vote. Adding a brown sugar glaze takes this dish to the next level without overwhelming it with sweetness. The secret to a perfectly baked ham lies in achieving the right temperature without overcooking it.
How to Bake a Ham
When purchasing a ham, check if it is fully cooked or labeled as “cook before eating.” A fully cooked ham only needs to be heated to 140°F, while the latter requires the internal temperature to reach 160°F. Once you have your ham, preheat your oven and place it cut side down in a roasting pan.
Cover the ham with foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed, and brush it with the brown sugar glaze before it goes into the oven.
How Long to Cook a Ham
For the best flavor and a tender texture, opt for a bone-in fully cooked ham. This type of ham typically requires around 12-14 minutes of cooking per pound. So, if you have a 9-pound ham, it will take approximately 2 1/4 hours to cook to perfection.
To ensure precise cooking, it’s highly recommended to use a reliable meat thermometer. By monitoring the ham’s internal temperature, you can achieve flawless results every time. Investing in a thermometer is a small price to pay for consistently delicious meals.
How to Make Brown Sugar Glaze for Ham
The brown sugar glaze adds a burst of flavor to the ham, striking the perfect balance between sweet and savory. In this recipe, I use brown sugar and a hint of pineapple juice (orange juice works well too). To make the glaze stick to the ham beautifully, I recommend slightly thickening it. Dark brown sugar can add an even more robust flavor, although light brown sugar works perfectly fine.
Be cautious not to leave the glaze in the oven for too long as it can burn due to its high sugar content. Apply the glaze during the last 15 minutes of cooking and watch as it transforms into a gorgeous golden coating.
Before slicing your baked ham, allow it to rest for 15 minutes to preserve its juicy tenderness.
How Much Ham per Person
If you’re serving a bone-in ham, you’ll want to factor in approximately 3/4 pound of ham per person. If you’re hoping for leftovers, plan for a bit more. An 8-pound ham should comfortably feed around 9 people. Remember, ham bones also make a fantastic base for flavorful soups and casseroles, so don’t let them go to waste!
What to Serve With Glazed Ham
Complete your meal by pairing your beautiful brown sugar ham with some delicious side dishes. At our house, we often serve it for Christmas or Easter dinner alongside these favorite sides:
- Homemade Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Copy Cat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- The BEST Mashed Potatoes
- Fresh Green Bean Casserole
- Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
- Classic Deviled Eggs Recipe
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you can’t get enough of delicious ham, here are a couple more recipes you won’t want to miss:
- Crock Pot Ham
- Potatoes Au Gratin
Remember to choose a bone-in ham, follow the recommended cooking times, and keep an eye on the temperature for a perfectly cooked, mouthwatering ham. So, whether it’s a special occasion or you’re simply craving some comfort food, this baked ham recipe will never disappoint.
For more delightful recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Ekilove. Enjoy your ham feast, and happy cooking!
