Best Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe – Easy, Juicy, and Crowd-Pleasing
Clove-studded roast dazzles with succulent texture and a glossy, sweet-savory crust.
Best Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe
A juicy, glossy, and flavorful ham is the centerpiece of many holiday tables, and with this easy five-ingredient honey-mustard glazed ham recipe from The Pioneer Woman, you’ll have a show-stopping main course with minimal fuss. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or a cozy family dinner, this ham is guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike.
Why This Recipe Works
This honey-mustard glazed ham recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious results. It uses just five ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. The combination of sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, and aromatic whole cloves creates a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Opting for a bone-in ham (not spiral-cut) ensures the meat stays extra moist and juicy during baking.
Ingredients
- 1 (12- to 15-pound) fully cooked bone-in ham
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a ham that’s juicy, caramelized, and full of flavor:
Preparing the Ham
- Preheat your oven to 325° Fahrenheit.
- Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. This allows the glaze to penetrate the meat and creates a beautiful presentation.
- Insert whole cloves into the center of each diamond. This not only adds flavor but also gives the ham a classic, festive look.
- Place the ham on a rack in a large roasting pan. Tent the ham loosely with aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking.
Baking the Ham
- Bake the ham until warmed through, about 2 hours. This step ensures the ham is heated evenly and retains its moisture.
- While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, honey, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Remove the ham from the oven. Carefully uncover and brush half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
- Return the ham to the oven, uncovered. Bake until the glaze looks glossy, about 20 minutes.
- Brush with the remaining glaze and continue baking until the glaze is just beginning to caramelize and the ham is richly golden, about 20 more minutes.
- Let the ham rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more succulent.
Tips for the Best Results
- Choose a bone-in ham. This type of ham is typically juicier and more flavorful than boneless or spiral-cut varieties.
- Don’t skimp on the glaze. Ensure you apply it evenly and let the final bake caramelize the sugars for that irresistible crust.
- Rest before carving. Allowing the ham to rest ensures tender, juicy slices and prevents drying out.
- Store leftovers properly. Refrigerate any remaining ham in an airtight container for up to four days. Ham also freezes well for future meals.
What to Serve with Honey-Mustard Glazed Ham
This glazed ham pairs beautifully with a variety of traditional side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes or scalloped potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes)
- Fresh rolls or cornbread
- Cranberry sauce or fresh fruit
| Side Dish | Best Pairing Notes |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Absorbs the glaze and balances the sweetness |
| Green Bean Casserole | Adds a creamy, savory contrast |
| Roasted Vegetables | Brightens the meal and adds texture |
| Cranberry Sauce | Offers a tart counterpoint to the sweet glaze |
Variations and Substitutions
Glaze Variations
- Add heat: Stir in a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Brown sugar glaze: Substitute brown sugar for honey and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangier, more caramelized finish.
- Orange-mustard glaze: Add the zest and juice of an orange to the glaze for a citrusy twist.
Ham Substitutions
- Spiral-cut ham: If you can’t find bone-in, a spiral-cut ham will still work, though it may not be as juicy. Brush the glaze between the slices for maximum flavor.
- Boneless half ham: Adjust the cooking time according to weight. Smaller hams may take less time to heat through.
Nutritional Considerations
Ham is a good source of protein, vitamins B6 and B12, iron, and zinc. However, it is also high in sodium and fat, so portion control is advised for those watching their intake. The glaze, primarily made of honey and mustard, adds sugars and calories but contributes to the overall flavor profile.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover ham in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Freeze: Wrap ham tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Place slices of ham in a baking dish, add a splash of water or broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a spiral-cut ham for this recipe?
- Yes, but bone-in hams are recommended for best juiciness and flavor. If using spiral-cut, brush the glaze between the slices.
- How do I prevent the ham from drying out?
- Keep the ham covered with foil during the initial baking, and let it rest before carving to retain moisture.
- Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the glaze up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before using.
- What if I can’t find whole cloves?
- You can use ground cloves sparingly in the glaze, but be aware the flavor will be more distributed rather than concentrated in spots.
- How do I know when the ham is done?
- The ham is fully cooked; you’re just reheating it. Bake until it’s heated through and the glaze is caramelized to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This honey-mustard glazed ham recipe from The Pioneer Woman is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering main dish that’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any family dinner. The sweet and tangy glaze, paired with juicy, succulent ham, is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to ham recipe for years to come.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a memorable, delicious ham that’s sure to earn a standing ovation at your table!
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