Baked Ham with Sweet Gravy

Name: Baked Ham with Sweet Gravy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8 pound) cooked bone-in ham; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1 (6 ounce) can of apple juice; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup milk

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By AprilPublished Jun 2, 2024

Are you craving a delicious and savory meal that will satisfy your taste buds?

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Prep: 10 min
Cook: 1 hr 30 min
Total: 1 hr 50 min
Servings: 16

Method

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
Place the ham, cut-side down, into a large roasting pan.
Evenly press brown sugar onto the ham.
Pour apple juice into the pan.
Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil.
Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the ham to check if it has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (62 degrees C).
Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before transferring it to a serving plate.
Pour the remaining pan juices into a saucepan.
In a jar with a lid, combine flour and milk, and shake until the mixture is blended.
Bring the pan juices to a boil.
Slowly whisk the flour mixture into the saucepan and cook until the gravy thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and savory meal that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than baked ham with sweet gravy! This mouthwatering dish is perfect for special occasions or even a simple family dinner. Let's dive into the details and learn how to create this delectable masterpiece.

Preparing the Perfect Baked Ham

Before we get started, let's talk about the star of the show â€“ the ham. Choosing the right ham is crucial to achieving a flavorful and tender result. Opt for a bone-in ham that is fully cooked and has a nice layer of fat. This will ensure a juicy and succulent texture.

To prepare the ham, begin by preheating your oven to the recommended temperature. Place the ham, cut side down, on a roasting rack in a shallow pan. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked ham.

Adding Flavorful Seasonings

Now it's time to elevate the flavors of your baked ham. You can keep it simple with a classic combination of brown sugar and mustard glaze, or you can experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Prepare the glaze by mixing the desired seasonings with brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Generously brush the glaze over the ham, ensuring that every inch is coated. This will create a beautiful caramelized crust as it bakes.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Once your ham is seasoned and glazed to perfection, it's time to pop it into the oven. The key to achieving a tender and moist ham is a slow and steady cooking process. Bake the ham at the recommended temperature and allow it to cook for the specified time according to its weight.

During the cooking process, baste the ham with the pan drippings every 20 minutes or so. This will keep the meat moist and infuse it with the delicious flavors of the glaze.

Creating a Sweet Gravy

No baked ham is complete without a luscious gravy to accompany it. The sweet gravy adds an extra layer of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Here's how you can whip up a delicious sweet gravy in no time.

Start by collecting the pan drippings from the baked ham. Place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat and add a tablespoon of flour. Stir the mixture until the flour is well combined and begins to thicken. Gradually pour in a mixture of broth, water, or apple juice, stirring constantly until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.

In Conclusion

Baked ham with sweet gravy is a delightful dish that will impress your family and friends. With its juicy and flavorful meat, complemented by a luscious sweet gravy, this meal is perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a mouthwatering baked ham that will leave everyone wanting more!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a boneless ham for this recipe?: While a boneless ham will work, using a bone-in ham adds more flavor and ensures a tender result.
How long should I cook the ham?: The cooking time depends on the weight of the ham. Refer to the packaging or recipe for specific guidelines.
Can I use different glaze flavors?: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different glaze flavors, such as pineapple, honey mustard, or even a spicy glaze.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?: Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and simply reheat it when serving.
What can I serve with baked ham and sweet gravy?: Baked ham pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I freeze the leftovers?: Absolutely! Simply place the leftover ham in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for later use.
How long will the leftover ham stay fresh in the refrigerator?: Leftover ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I use the sweet gravy for other dishes?: Yes, the sweet gravy can be used as a delicious accompaniment for other roasted meats or even poured over mashed potatoes.