How To Bake A 4 Lbs Ham With Pineapple

Delicious and Easy: Baking a 4 Lbs Ham with Pineapple

Are you looking for a mouthwatering dish to serve at your next family gathering or holiday feast? Baking a 4 lbs ham with pineapple is a classic and delicious option that is sure to impress your guests. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the combination of savory ham and sweet pineapple creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to bake a 4 lbs ham with pineapple, ensuring that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 lbs ham
• 1 can of pineapple rings
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice

Step 1: Preparing the Ham

Before you begin, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, making sure to remove any packaging or netting. If the ham has a layer of skin, score it with a sharp knife in a crisscross pattern to help the flavors penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Adding the Pineapple Glaze

Next, it’s time to prepare the pineapple glaze. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, and pineapple juice. This flavorful glaze will add a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess to the ham.

Step 3: Applying the Glaze

Using a basting brush, generously coat the ham with the pineapple glaze, making sure to cover the entire surface. The glaze will caramelize as the ham bakes, creating a beautiful golden crust and infusing the meat with incredible flavor.

Step 4: Adding the Pineapple Rings

Now, it’s time to adorn the ham with pineapple rings. Simply place the pineapple rings on top of the glazed ham, securing them in place with toothpicks if necessary. The sweet and juicy pineapple will complement the savory ham, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Step 5: Baking the Ham

Cover the roasting pan with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the ham for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Basting the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes will help keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once the ham is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice of ham is tender and succulent.

Serving Your Baked Ham with Pineapple

Now that your 4 lbs ham with pineapple is beautifully baked and ready to serve, it’s time to carve and enjoy! Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal or as a delicious Sunday dinner, this flavorful dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Baking a 4 lbs ham with pineapple is a simple yet impressive way to elevate your cooking game. The combination of tender ham and sweet, tangy pineapple creates a flavor experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, next time you’re in the mood for a show-stopping dish, give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a new family favorite!