Glazed Baked Ham

This simple baked ham recipe, made with just four ingredients, is the perfect dish to become a holiday staple in your home.

Baking Instructions for Ham

Baking a ham at home is simpler than you might think. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, but here's a quick overview to get you started:

Ingredients for Baked Ham

To make the most delicious baked ham ever, you’ll need just four simple ingredients:

• Ham: You'll need the rump portion of a bone-in ham. If your ham is larger or smaller than 12 pounds, you'll need to make some adjustments.
• Cloves: Whole cloves add warmth and a certain depth of flavor.
• Sugar: Brown sugar lends more warmth and welcome sweetness.
• Water: Use about an inch of water. This isn't one-size-fits-all, as different roasting pans will need different amounts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Ham

Here's a quick summary of what to expect when baking a ham at home:

1. Insert cloves into the top of the ham and cover it with brown sugar.
2. Pour water into the roasting pan.
3. Roast in the preheated oven until the ham is fully cooked.

Baking Time for Ham

A 12-pound ham will take approximately 4.5 to 5 hours to cook at 350°F. For accuracy, check with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center (avoiding the bone) — it should read at least 160°F.

Ideal Sides for Baked Ham

Looking for tasty ideas to pair with your ham? We've got plenty of options. Check out our list of 19 Best Side Dishes to Pair with Ham. Here's a sneak peek:

• Mom's Scalloped Potatoes
• Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
• Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad

How to Store Leftover Baked Ham

Keep leftover baked ham in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat, use the microwave or the oven.

Can Baked Ham Be Frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze baked ham. Simply wrap the leftovers in storage wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight.

Dinogo Community Feedback and Praise

"This was fantastic and super easy!" shares Indysev. "I left out the cloves since my family isn't fond of them, but the ham turned out so moist and flavorful!"

"I made this for Christmas and it was a huge success!" says deepali. "I really appreciated how simple it was, and we barely had any leftovers to store!"

"This was absolutely delicious," raves Cindy Sassack. "The entire family loved it. We skipped the cloves and used brown sugar with pineapple slices instead. It was so moist and tasty!"

Contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients List

• 1 (12-pound) bone-in ham, rump portion

• ½ cup whole cloves

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 4 cups water, or as needed

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ham in a large roasting pan and insert cloves into the top, spaced 1 to 2 inches apart.

Cover the top of the ham with a generous layer of brown sugar.

Add enough water to the bottom of the roasting pan to create a 1-inch layer, then cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 4 ½ to 5 hours. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center (without touching the bone); it should register at least 160°F (72°C).

Allow the ham to rest for about 20 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Tip

Nutritional Information (per serving)