Thanksgiving Ham: Grandma’s Divine 2025 Recipe

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. There’s just something so special about gathering with loved ones, sharing a delicious meal, and creating lasting memories. And at the heart of our Thanksgiving feast is the mighty Thanksgiving Ham. Growing up, I can still remember the mouthwatering aroma that would fill the house as my grandma’s Thanksgiving Ham roasted to perfection in the oven. It was the centerpiece of our table, surrounded by an array of tantalizing side dishes and patiently awaited by all of us kids. I’d watch eagerly as she’d carefully slice into that golden-brown exterior, revealing the juicy, flavorful meat inside. It was pure magic, and it’s a tradition I’ve carried on in my own home.

Why This Thanksgiving Ham Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Thanksgiving Ham

This Thanksgiving Ham recipe is truly a game-changer. It’s the product of years of perfecting the technique, and I can say with confidence that it will become your new go-to. The secret lies in the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, as well as a unique method that ensures the ham remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this Thanksgiving Ham long after the last crumb has been devoured.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

– Whole bone-in ham – Look for a high-quality, spiral-sliced ham that’s around 8-10 pounds. This will feed a crowd and ensure you have plenty of leftovers.
– Brown sugar – The key to that caramelized, glazed exterior. Go for dark brown sugar for maximum flavor.
– Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness.
– Honey – Contributes another layer of sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully.
– Cloves – Warm, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the ham.
– Pineapple juice – Keeps the ham moist and introduces a subtle tropical note.

Step-by-Step Thanksgiving Ham Instructions

Preparing Your Thanksgiving Ham

Cooking a Thanksgiving Ham doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe is straightforward and comes together in just a few simple steps. You’ll need about 3-4 hours total, including the baking time, and the only equipment required is a roasting pan and a meat thermometer. Let’s get started!

1- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the Thanksgiving Ham from its packaging and place it in a large roasting pan, fat side up.
2- Use a sharp knife to score the ham in a crosshatch pattern, cutting through the fat but not into the meat. This will help the glaze penetrate and create that beautiful caramelized crust.
3- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and ground cloves until well combined. Generously brush this glaze all over the surface of the ham, making sure to get into the crevices created by the scoring.
4- Pour the pineapple juice into the bottom of the roasting pan, being careful not to wash away the glaze on top of the ham.
5- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 2-2.5 hours, basting with the pan juices every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
6- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to caramelize and create a beautiful shiny crust. Once the ham reaches 145°F, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Pro Tips for Success

– Don’t be afraid to get creative with the glaze! Try adding a splash of apple cider, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a bit of orange zest.
– Keep a close eye on the ham towards the end to prevent the glaze from burning. If it’s browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil.
– Let the Thanksgiving Ham rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a perfectly moist and flavorful ham.

Serving and Storing Your Thanksgiving Ham

Perfect Pairings for Thanksgiving Ham

Thanksgiving Ham is the ultimate centerpiece for your holiday feast, but it shines even brighter when complemented by the right side dishes. I love serving it alongside classic favorites like creamy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, roasted Brussels sprouts, and buttery dinner rolls. And don’t forget the cranberry sauce – it’s the perfect tangy-sweet contrast to the rich, savory ham.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about Thanksgiving Ham is that it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat. Simply let the leftover ham cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve it again, simply pop it in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes per pound.

You can also prepare the Thanksgiving Ham a day or two in advance. Assemble the glaze, score the ham, and place it in the roasting pan. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This will save you a ton of time on the big day!

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Thanksgiving Ham

Creative Thanksgiving Ham Variations

While this recipe is already a showstopper, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on Thanksgiving Ham. Try swapping out the pineapple juice for apple cider or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Or experiment with the spices in the glaze – a touch of ginger, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of cayenne can really elevate the dish.

Making Thanksgiving Ham Diet-Friendly

For those with dietary restrictions, don’t worry – Thanksgiving Ham can be easily adapted. To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free Dijon mustard. For a low-carb version, replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. And for a plant-based take, you can even use a ham-style seitan or jackfruit roast in place of the traditional ham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a pre-cooked ham for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works great with a pre-cooked, spiral-sliced ham. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as pre-cooked hams will require less time in the oven.

Q: How long should I bake the Thanksgiving Ham?
A: The total baking time for this Thanksgiving Ham recipe is 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Remember to baste the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes for maximum moisture and flavor.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the glaze up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a quick stir before brushing it onto the ham.

Q: How much Thanksgiving Ham should I plan for per person?
A: As a general rule, plan for about 1/2 pound of ham per person. For a group of 8-10 people, an 8-10 pound ham should be plenty, with some leftovers.

Q: What should I do if the glaze starts to burn?
A: If the glaze is browning too quickly, simply loosely tent the ham with aluminum foil to prevent further caramelization. You can also reduce the oven temperature by 25°F if needed.

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Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma and flavor of a perfectly-cooked Thanksgiving Ham. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a new holiday tradition in your household. With its irresistible sweet-and-savory glaze, juicy interior, and show-stopping presentation, this Thanksgiving Ham is guaranteed to be the star of your feast. So why not give it a try this year? I promise it will be a decision you won’t regret. Enjoy, and happy Thanksgiving!