How To Cook Ham And Potatoes In The Oven

Cooking ham and potatoes in the oven is a classic dish that combines the savory flavors of juicy ham with the comforting taste of roasted potatoes. This method is straightforward, requiring minimal preparation for a meal that's both delicious and satisfying. Whether you're preparing a family dinner or a special occasion feast, mastering the art of baking ham alongside potatoes ensures a hearty dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. In this guide, we'll walk through the essential steps to achieve perfectly cooked ham and potatoes, highlighting tips to enhance flavor and ensure a successful outcome every time.

Gather Your Ingredients for Oven-Baked Ham and Potatoes

• 1 large ham (about 5-7 pounds), pre-cooked
• 4 pounds of potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Essential Tools for Baking Ham and Potatoes

• Oven: For baking both ham and potatoes.
• Roasting pan: Large enough to accommodate the ham.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the ham during part of the cooking process, preventing it from drying out.
• Baking sheet: For spreading out the potatoes in a single layer.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To line the baking sheet, ensuring potatoes don't stick.
• Knife: For slicing or dicing the potatoes.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: To toss the potatoes with oil and seasonings.
• Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring seasonings.
• Spatula or tongs: Useful for turning potatoes halfway through baking for even cooking.

The Delicious Reasons for Baking Ham and Potatoes Together

Cooking ham and potatoes in the oven is a time-honored tradition that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory dish that's both satisfying and nourishing. It's a simple yet effective way to prepare a hearty meal for family gatherings or special occasions.

Using the oven for ham and potatoes ensures even cooking and a delightful crispiness to the potatoes, while the ham remains juicy and tender. This technique also frees up stovetop space, making meal preparation more manageable and less chaotic, especially during busy holiday seasons or when hosting large dinners.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Oven-Baked Delight

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your ham and potatoes cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Ham

• Take your ham out of its packaging. If it's pre-cooked, you'll just be warming it through and adding flavor.

Step 3: Score Ham

• With a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern. This allows flavors to penetrate more deeply.

Step 4: Season Ham

• Rub the ham with your chosen seasonings. Popular options include brown sugar, honey, mustard, and cloves.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

• Wash and cube potatoes into uniform pieces. Smaller pieces mean quicker cooking.

Step 6: Season Potatoes

• Toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Rosemary and garlic work well.

Step 7: Arrange in Baking Dish

• Place the seasoned ham in the center of a large baking dish. Surround it with the seasoned potatoes.

Step 8: Add Liquids (Optional)

• For extra moisture, add a little water, broth, or apple juice to the bottom of the dish. This creates steam that helps cook the ham and potatoes, keeping them moist.

Step 9: Cover with Foil

• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking.

Step 10: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven. Cooking times vary depending on the size of your ham. Generally, allow about 15 minutes per pound for pre-cooked hams. Potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 11: Uncover and Glaze

• About 20 minutes before the end of cooking, remove the foil. Apply a glaze to the ham if using. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for a crispy finish on the potatoes and to caramelize the ham's glaze.

Step 12: Check Doneness

• Ensure the ham is heated through to the center and the potatoes are golden and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the ham reaches a safe internal temperature.

Step 13: Rest Before Serving

• Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, making the ham more moist and flavorful.

Step 14: Serve

• Serve the ham and potatoes together. Enjoy your meal!

A Tasty Farewell

Cooking ham and potatoes in the oven is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your kitchen. With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and a sprinkle of love, you've got yourself a dish that's sure to impress. Remember, the secret lies in the preparation – marinating the ham, slicing the potatoes just right, and finding that perfect balance of spices. Whether it's a holiday feast or a cozy dinner for two, this dish has got you covered. So, go ahead, give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds. Cooking is an art, and with dishes like these, you're painting with flavors.