How To Bake Ham In A Roaster Pan

Delicious and Easy: Baking Ham in a Roaster Pan

Are you looking for a simple and delicious way to prepare ham for your next family gathering or holiday meal? Baking ham in a roaster pan is a fantastic option that yields juicy, flavorful results. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this method is easy to master and will leave your guests asking for seconds. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to bake a mouthwatering ham in a roaster pan.

Choosing the Right Ham

Before you start baking, it’s important to select the right ham for your recipe. There are various types of ham available, including bone-in, boneless, and spiral-cut. For baking in a roaster pan, a bone-in ham is an excellent choice as it tends to be juicier and more flavorful. When purchasing your ham, consider the size of your roaster pan to ensure a proper fit.

Preparing the Ham

Once you have your ham, it’s time to prepare it for baking. Follow these simple steps to get your ham ready for the roaster pan:

1. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature based on the size of your ham.
2. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it in the roaster pan, flat side down.
3. Score the surface of the ham with a sharp knife to create a diamond pattern. This will allow the glaze to penetrate the meat and add flavor.
4. If desired, insert whole cloves into the scored intersections for an extra burst of flavor.

Creating a Flavorful Glaze

A delicious glaze is the key to a perfectly baked ham. Here’s a simple recipe for a classic ham glaze:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once the glaze is ready, generously brush it over the surface of the ham, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.

Baking the Ham

With the ham prepared and glazed, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Cover the roaster pan with a lid or aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent the glaze from burning. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake according to the recommended time based on the size of your ham. Basting the ham with the pan juices every 30 minutes will help keep it moist and flavorful.

Checking for Doneness

After the recommended baking time has elapsed, it’s important to ensure that the ham is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 140°F for a fully cooked ham. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Serving and Enjoying

Now that your ham is perfectly baked, it’s time to carve and serve it to your eager guests. The flavorful glaze will have created a beautiful caramelized crust, and the meat will be tender and juicy. Whether you’re serving it as the main course for a holiday feast or using the leftovers for sandwiches and omelets, your baked ham is sure to be a hit!

Baking ham in a roaster pan is a simple and rewarding cooking method that yields impressive results. With the right ham, a flavorful glaze, and careful attention to baking, you can create a memorable dish that will have everyone asking for your recipe. So, next time you’re planning a special meal, consider baking a delicious ham in a roaster pan for a truly satisfying dining experience.