When you're looking to enhance your meals, ham can be an impressive centerpiece, but not all recipes are created equal. You might find that the Classic Honey Glazed Ham strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and savory depth, while a Baked Ham With Pineapple adds a tropical flair. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, a Maple Mustard Glazed Ham offers an unexpected twist. Nevertheless, the real magic often lies in the comforting uses of leftovers. Curious about which recipes make the cut and how they can transform your dining experience?
Classic Honey Glazed Ham
A classic honey glazed ham is a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering or special occasion. The sweet and savory glaze caramelizes beautifully during roasting, creating a mouthwatering crust that envelops the tender, juicy ham.
This recipe is easy to follow and results in a stunning dish that will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform a basic ham into a gourmet experience that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Whole cloves (for studding the ham)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, and stud the intersections with whole cloves.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended and the sugar has dissolved.
Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush half of the glaze over the surface of the ham. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes, until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Extra Tips:
For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or pineapple juice to the glaze mixture.
Allow the ham to rest for about 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing; this helps retain the juices and guarantees every slice is moist and flavorful.
If you have leftovers, honey glazed ham also makes for delicious sandwiches or can be added to salads for a tasty twist!
Baked Ham With Pineapple
Baked ham with pineapple is a classic dish that combines the savory richness of ham with the sweet, tropical flavor of pineapple. This dish not only makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering but also fills your home with a delightful aroma while it bakes.
The sweetness of the pineapple glaze complements the saltiness of the ham, creating a perfect balance that will please any palate. Whether it's for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 can (20 ounces) sliced pineapple, drained
- Whole cloves (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, making shallow cuts about 1 inch apart. Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down.
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and honey to create a glaze. Brush half of the glaze over the ham, and then stud the ham with whole cloves if desired.
Place the pineapple slices over the ham and secure them with toothpicks. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the remaining glaze every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful ham, consider marinating the ham in the glaze overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
If you want a caramelized finish, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Pair your baked ham with side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal, and don't forget to save any leftovers for delicious sandwiches or salads the next day!
Ham and Cheese Casserole
Ham and Cheese Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of ham with the creamy richness of cheese, all baked into a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for using up leftover ham, this casserole is easy to prepare and makes for a great weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish.
With layers of tender pasta, hearty ham, and a cheesy sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional for topping)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced ham, 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and if using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for added crunch.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the mix.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist.
If you want to make this casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious Ham and Cheese Casserole!
Smoked Ham and Bean Soup
Smoked Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a satisfying meal. The smoky flavors from the ham combined with tender beans create a delightful blend that warms the soul.
This soup isn't only delicious but also easy to make, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it simmers. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that will please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they're softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced smoked ham, soaked navy beans, broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of hot sauce while the soup simmers.
If you're short on time, you can use canned beans instead of dried; just be sure to rinse them well and add them in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Enjoy experimenting with different types of beans or adding vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition!
Maple Mustard Glazed Ham
Maple Mustard Glazed Ham is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard, creating a flavorful glaze that improves the natural richness of the ham. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings, offering a beautifully caramelized exterior and a juicy interior that will impress your guests.
With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward cooking instructions, you can easily create a show-stopping centerpiece for your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
To prepare the Maple Mustard Glazed Ham, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan, cut side down.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined. Brush a generous portion of the glaze over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and develop a rich color. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
When cooking Maple Mustard Glazed Ham, it's important to choose a high-quality ham for the best flavor. A bone-in ham not only offers more taste but also provides a beautiful presentation.
Make sure to let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
For added flair, consider garnishing the ham with fresh herbs or orange slices for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious creation!