Honey Baked Beef Ham is a deliciously sweet and savory centerpiece that takes your meal to the next level. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or family gatherings, this recipe brings together tender beef ham with a sticky, flavorful glaze that is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a Honey Baked Beef Ham. Not only is it visually stunning with its glazed exterior, but the combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Baking it with the right glaze enhances the savory nature of the beef while balancing it with sweetness from honey and sugar. Plus, this dish can serve a crowd, making it ideal for celebrations and feasts. By preparing this ham, you also create an opportunity for fabulous leftovers, allowing you to enjoy the taste for days to come.
How to Make Honey Baked Beef Ham
Ingredients
To make this delightful Honey Baked Beef Ham, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 half spiral cut beef ham (7-8 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Honey Baked Beef Ham:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for gently cooking the ham, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
- Place the beef ham in a roasting pan. It’s crucial to use a pan with enough space to let the juices flow, allowing for even cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, granulated sugar, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, paprika, ginger, and allspice. This glaze will enhance the flavors significantly, making the ham juicy and delicious.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. Scoring not only makes the ham beautiful but also allows the glaze to penetrate and flavor the meat effectively.
- Coat the scored ham with the prepared glaze. Make sure to cover all visible surfaces; this will help create a sticky, caramelized coating as it bakes.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting it every 30 minutes with the drippings from the pan.
- After the initial roasting period, remove the foil and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This step will give the ham a lovely caramelized crust.
- Once it’s done, let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in every bite being full of flavor.
Pro Tips for Success Honey Baked Beef Ham
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is critical for ensuring that your ham is cooked perfectly and safe to eat.
- Baste Often: Don’t skip the basting—this adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the ham to rest after cooking helps lock in the juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
- Experiment with the Glaze: Feel free to tweak the spice mix based on your family preferences. A touch of orange zest or maple syrup could offer a nice twist.
- Keep it Covered: Covering the ham initially prevents it from drying out and helps develop that luscious glaze.
- Leftover Uses: Be creative with leftovers! They can be used in sandwiches, casseroles, or even added to salads for a tasty boost.
Flavor Variations Honey Baked Beef Ham
While the classic Honey Baked Beef Ham is spectacular on its own, consider these flavor variations to mix things up:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat.
- Maple Twist: Substitute half of the honey with maple syrup for a deeper flavor profile.
- Citrus Zest: Stir in some orange or lemon zest into the glaze to add a refreshing citrus element.
- Herbal Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic experience.
- Peachy Goodness: Use peach preserves instead of some of the honey for a fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with beef.
Serving Suggestions Honey Baked Beef Ham
Honey Baked Beef Ham is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Classic Roast Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil and herbs are a great complement to the ham.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes balance the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
- Green Bean Almondine: Sauteed green beans with sliced almonds add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor that pairs brilliantly.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce can cut through the sweetness and provides a delightful contrast.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls make the perfect side for soaking up any juices or glaze remaining on the plate.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Honey Baked Beef Ham
To ensure the best quality and safety when storing your Honey Baked Beef Ham, follow these guidelines:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy your ham later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to use frozen ham, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: Reheat slices gently in the oven covered with foil at a low temperature to keep the meat moist, or use a microwave for quick reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|————–|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 1 slice | 250 | 12g | 30g | 10g | 0g | 600mg |
FAQ About Honey Baked Beef Ham
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe specifically uses beef ham for its unique flavor, you can easily substitute it with smoked turkey or a pork ham if you prefer. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as different meats may require different roasting times.
How do I know when my ham is properly cooked?
To ensure that your Honey Baked Beef Ham is cooked safely, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for the meat to be safe to eat. Additionally, let it rest for 15 minutes to allow juices to settle.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, preparing the glaze a day ahead can enhance the flavors. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a stir before applying it to the ham.
What’s the best way to slice the ham?
For beautifully sliced ham, use a sharp carving knife. Slice against the grain to ensure tender pieces. Spiral-cut hams should already be pre-scored, making them easier to handle.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for baking, you can adapt it to a slow cooker. Place the ham in the slow cooker, coat it with glaze, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Remember to baste occasionally to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Making Honey Baked Beef Ham is not just about creating a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family around the table. With its delicious glaze and tender meat, it’s a recipe that invites laughter, storytelling, and togetherness. Whether for a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to leave your guests delighted and satisfied. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the process of crafting this delightful centerpiece that’s truly worth the effort!
Print
Honey Baked Beef Ham
- Total Time: 165 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A deliciously sweet and savory centerpiece perfect for special occasions, featuring tender beef ham with a sticky glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 half spiral cut beef ham (7–8 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the beef ham in a roasting pan.
- In a bowl, mix together melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, granulated sugar, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, paprika, ginger, and allspice.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern.
- Coat the scored ham with the prepared glaze.
- Cover the ham with aluminum foil and roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- After the initial roasting period, remove the foil and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for perfect cooking and allow the ham to rest after cooking to retain its juices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 150 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
