Imagine a ham so succulent, so perfectly glazed, that your dinner guests will be talking about it for months to come. Our Thyme Honey Baked Ham is not just another holiday recipe – it's a culinary masterpiece that transforms an ordinary ham into a show-stopping centerpiece. With a magical blend of sweet honey, aromatic thyme, and warm spices, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience from mundane to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 fully cooked ham (about 8 pounds)
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature allows the ham to heat through while developing a beautiful glaze.
- Prepare your baking dish by selecting a large, oven-safe roasting pan or baking dish that can accommodate the ham. If desired, you can line the pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Place the fully cooked ham in the center of the baking dish, cut side down. This helps to keep the meat moist during the cooking process.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, chopped fresh thyme, black pepper, and ground cloves. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Using a basting brush or a spoon, generously coat the surface of the ham with the honey-thyme mixture. Make sure to cover all exposed areas for an even glaze.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture during the initial cooking phase, preventing the ham from drying out.
- Place the ham in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining honey-thyme mixture. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and creates a sticky glaze.
- After 2 hours, remove the aluminum foil and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
- Once the ham is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful ham.
- Slice the ham into thick or thin pieces, as desired, and serve warm. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the baking dish over the slices for added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Thyme Honey Baked Ham with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Choose a high-quality, fully cooked ham for the best results. Look for a ham with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Temperature is key! Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for optimal safety and taste.
- Basting is crucial – don't skip the every-30-minute basting routine. This ensures a deep, caramelized glaze and prevents the ham from drying out.
- Let the ham rest after cooking. This 15-20 minute period allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing each slice is moist and flavorful.
- For extra presentation points, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. It adds a beautiful touch and reinforces the herb's flavor in the dish.
- If you prefer a more intense glaze, you can reduce the remaining honey-thyme mixture in a saucepan before drizzling over the sliced ham.
- Leftover ham? It's perfect for sandwiches, salads, and breakfast dishes for the next few days!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
