19 Delicious Fresh Ham Recipes for Special Occasions

Special occasions call for showstopping meals, and nothing impresses quite like a perfectly cooked fresh ham. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a Sunday supper, or just craving something hearty and delicious, we’ve rounded up 19 mouthwatering recipes that will make your next gathering unforgettable. From classic glazed hams to creative twists, these dishes are sure to wow your guests—let’s dig in!

Herb-Crusted Fresh Ham with Garlic Butter

Feast your eyes on this showstopper: a juicy, herb-crusted fresh ham slathered in garlic butter that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. No fancy skills needed—just bold flavors and a crave-worthy crunch.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 (10-12 lb) fresh ham, skin on
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the herb crust:
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 tbsp chopped rosemary
  • 2 tbsp chopped thyme
  • 1 tbsp chopped sage
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• For the garlic butter:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pat the ham dry with paper towels—this helps the crust stick.
2. Rub the ham all over with olive oil. Place it skin-side up in a roasting pan.
3. Roast for 2 hours. Tip: Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices for extra moisture.
4. While the ham roasts, mix breadcrumbs, parsley, rosemary, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper in a bowl for the crust.
5. In another bowl, mash together butter, garlic, and salt for the garlic butter.
6. After 2 hours, remove the ham from the oven. Increase oven temperature to 425°F.
7. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the ham. Pack the herb crust on top.
8. Return to the oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.
9. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Tip: Resting ensures juicy, tender meat.

Golden and crackling on the outside, succulent and garlicky within—this ham is a textural dream. Serve it sliced thick on a platter with roasted veggies, or pile it high on crusty bread for next-level sandwiches.

Maple-Glazed Fresh Ham with Pineapple Slices

Score big at your next dinner with this showstopper. Sweet, smoky, and juicy—this ham’s got it all, and pineapple slices add a tropical twist.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 1 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
• For the pineapple slices:
  • 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Tip: Warm the mixture slightly for easier brushing.
3. Brush half of the glaze over the ham, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover loosely with foil.
4. Roast for 2 hours, then remove foil and brush with remaining glaze. Tip: Baste every 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
5. After 3 hours total, increase oven to 375°F. Arrange pineapple slices around the ham, brush with melted butter.
6. Roast for another 30 minutes until the ham is golden and pineapple is caramelized. Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the ham reaches 145°F.
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

You’ll love the crispy, caramelized edges against the tender ham. Serve slices with pineapple on top for a picture-perfect plate that’s as delicious as it looks.

Slow-Roasted Fresh Ham with Rosemary and Thyme

Picture this: a succulent, slow-roasted fresh ham, its crust crackling with rosemary and thyme, filling your kitchen with aromas that’ll have neighbors knocking.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
• For the herb rub:
  • 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up beautifully.
2. Rub the ham all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Tip: Letting the ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting ensures even cooking.
3. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to create the herb rub.
4. Massage the herb rub all over the ham, pressing gently to adhere. Tip: For extra flavor, make small incisions in the ham and stuff with herb mixture.
5. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast in the preheated oven for about 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Tip: Baste the ham with its juices every hour to keep it moist.
6. Let the ham rest for 20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Buttery and tender, this ham pulls apart with ease, each slice infused with the earthy tones of rosemary and thyme. Serve it atop a rustic bread with a dollop of mustard for a sandwich that steals the show.

Honey-Mustard Glazed Fresh Ham

Transform your dinner into a showstopper with this Honey-Mustard Glazed Fresh Ham. **Juicy**, **flavor-packed**, and **unforgettably glossy**, it’s the centerpiece your table deserves.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs), skin-on
  • 2 cups water
• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, skin side up. Pour 2 cups of water into the pan.
2. Roast the ham for 2 hours, uncovered. This slow roast ensures the meat stays tender.
3. While the ham roasts, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl for the glaze.
4. After 2 hours, brush half of the glaze over the ham. Return to the oven for 30 minutes.
5. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and roast for another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.

Velvety from the honey-mustard glaze and perfectly pink inside, this ham pairs brilliantly with roasted veggies or a crisp salad. **Slice it thick** for a hearty meal or **thin** for elegant sandwiches.

Spiced Fresh Ham with Apple Cider Reduction

Get ready to **elevate** your dinner game with a dish that’s **bold** in flavor and **simple** in execution. This spiced fresh ham, glazed with an apple cider reduction, is a **showstopper** that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 (8-10 lb) fresh ham
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
• For the apple cider reduction:
  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp ground ginger

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Rub the fresh ham with olive oil, then evenly coat with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
4. While the ham roasts, combine apple cider, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ginger in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and thickens to a syrup consistency, about 15-20 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the ham with the apple cider reduction every 10 minutes for a sticky, caramelized glaze. Tip: Reserve some reduction for serving.
7. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this ham is **unforgettable**. Serve it with the extra reduction on the side for dipping or drizzle over slices for an extra flavor punch.

Brown Sugar and Clove Fresh Ham Roast

Absolutely no one does holiday feasts like a Brown Sugar and Clove Fresh Ham Roast—juicy, fragrant, and unapologetically bold.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham roast (about 10 lbs)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cloves
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F—this low and slow temp ensures the ham stays tender.
2. Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, to help the flavors penetrate.
3. Rub the ham all over with 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp ground cloves, 1 tbsp salt, and 1 tbsp black pepper. Tip: Wear gloves to avoid sticky hands.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fatty side up, and roast for 2.5 hours. Tip: Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices to keep it moist.
5. While the ham roasts, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, and 2 tbsp Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
6. After 2.5 hours, brush the ham with the glaze and increase the oven temp to 425°F. Roast for another 15 minutes until the glaze is caramelized. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.
7. Let the ham rest for 20 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Perfectly balanced between sweet and spicy, this ham boasts a sticky glaze and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it sliced thin on warm biscuits for a next-level sandwich.

Orange and Ginger Glazed Fresh Ham

Unleash a flavor bomb with this Orange and Ginger Glazed Fresh Ham—juicy, sticky, and packed with zing. Perfect for turning any dinner into a headline act.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 cups orange juice
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp grated ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a large roasting pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups orange juice, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Pour over the ham.
3. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 2 hours. Tip: Basting every 30 minutes keeps it moist.
4. While the ham bakes, combine brown sugar, 1/2 cup orange juice, chopped ginger, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning.
5. After 2 hours, remove the foil. Brush the ham with the glaze and increase the oven to 375°F.
6. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes, glazing every 10 minutes. Tip: Watch closely to avoid over-browning.
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Flaunt that glossy, caramelized crust and tender meat that falls apart at the touch. Serve it sliced over a bed of roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory knockout.

Smoked Fresh Ham with Cherry Wood Chips

Zesty and bold, this smoked fresh ham is your next weekend showstopper. Cherry wood chips add a sweet, smoky depth that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the brine:
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 4 bay leaves
• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 cups cherry wood chips
• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then cool completely to make the brine.
2. Submerge the fresh ham in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 24 hours. Tip: Use a weight to keep the ham fully submerged.
3. Remove the ham from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Soak cherry wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
5. Place the ham in the smoker, add the wood chips to the coals, and smoke for 6 hours. Tip: Maintain a consistent temperature for even cooking.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
7. After 6 hours, brush the ham with the glaze and continue smoking for another 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Tip: Baste every 30 minutes for a sticky, caramelized crust.
8. Remove the ham from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Velvety and rich, the ham’s smoky sweetness pairs perfectly with sharp mustard or a tangy slaw. Serve it thickly sliced on a platter, or shred for next-level sandwiches.

Pineapple and Brown Sugar Fresh Ham

Just when you thought ham couldn’t get any better, we’re tossing pineapple and brown sugar into the mix. This isn’t your grandma’s holiday ham—it’s a sticky, sweet, and slightly tangy masterpiece that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
• For serving:
  • 1 pineapple, sliced into rings

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place the ham in a large roasting pan, fat side up.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves. Rub this mixture all over the ham.
3. Cover the ham loosely with foil and bake for 2 hours. Tip: Basting every 30 minutes keeps it juicy.
4. While the ham bakes, make the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. After 2 hours, remove the foil. Brush the ham with half the glaze and arrange pineapple rings on top. Bake uncovered for another 30 minutes.
6. Brush with remaining glaze and bake for 10 more minutes until caramelized. Tip: Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.

All that’s left is to slice and serve. The ham’s crust is a crackly sugar shell, giving way to tender, flavorful meat. Try serving it with a side of grilled pineapple rings for an extra punch of sweetness.

Garlic and Herb Marinated Fresh Ham

Kickstart your culinary adventure with this Garlic and Herb Marinated Fresh Ham—**juicy, flavorful, and downright irresistible**. Perfect for those who crave a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)

Instructions

1. **Whisk together** olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl to create the marinade.
2. **Place the fresh ham** in a large resealable bag or container, then **pour the marinade over it**, ensuring it’s fully coated. **Tip:** Massage the marinade into the ham for deeper flavor penetration.
3. **Seal the bag or container** and **refrigerate for at least 12 hours**, turning occasionally. **Tip:** Marinating overnight maximizes flavor.
4. **Preheat your oven** to 325°F (163°C) and **place the ham** on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. **Roast the ham** for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). **Tip:** Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
6. **Let the ham rest** for 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

**Lusciously tender** with a crispy herb crust, this ham is a showstopper. **Slice it thick** for a hearty main or thin for sandwiches that’ll steal the spotlight at any picnic.

Rosemary and Lemon Infused Fresh Ham

Yield to the zesty allure of this Rosemary and Lemon Infused Fresh Ham—it’s a showstopper that marries bold flavors with effortless elegance.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham’s skin in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the ham, ensuring it gets into the scores.
5. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up.
6. Roast for 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
7. While the ham roasts, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for the glaze.
8. After 2.5 hours, brush the ham with half the glaze.
9. Continue roasting for another 30 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze.
10. Roast for a final 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the skin is crispy.
11. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Relish the crispy skin and juicy interior, where the rosemary’s piney notes and lemon’s brightness shine. Serve it sliced thin on a platter, or pile it high on sandwiches with a swipe of extra glaze.

Apple Cider Brined Fresh Ham

Zesty flavors meet juicy perfection in this Apple Cider Brined Fresh Ham. **Brine** it, **roast** it, and **glaze** it for a show-stopping centerpiece that’s bursting with autumnal vibes.

Ingredients

• For the brine:
  • 1 gallon apple cider
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp whole black peppercorns
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. **Combine** all brine ingredients in a large pot. **Bring** to a boil, then **cool** completely.
2. **Submerge** the ham in the brine. **Refrigerate** for 24 hours, turning once.
3. **Preheat** oven to 325°F. **Remove** ham from brine; **pat** dry. **Rub** with olive oil.
4. **Roast** on a rack in a roasting pan for 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. **Meanwhile, simmer** glaze ingredients in a saucepan until reduced by half, about 15 minutes.
6. **Brush** ham with glaze every 15 minutes during the last hour of roasting.
7. **Rest** for 20 minutes before **carving**.

Perfectly **balanced** between sweet and savory, this ham boasts a **crisp** exterior and **tender** interior. **Slice** it thick for sandwiches or **serve** alongside roasted root veggies for a hearty meal.

Pomegranate Glazed Fresh Ham with Fresh Herbs

Unleash a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as bold in flavor as it is in presentation. This pomegranate-glazed fresh ham, studded with fresh herbs, turns any dinner into a festive feast.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 (10-12 lb) fresh ham, skin on
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup pomegranate juice
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pat the ham dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely.
2. Rub the ham all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place on a rack in a roasting pan.
3. Roast for 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Tip: Baste the ham with its own juices every 30 minutes for extra moisture.
4. While the ham roasts, combine pomegranate juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, and thyme in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes until thickened. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.
5. After 2.5 hours, brush the ham with half the glaze. Increase oven temperature to 400°F and roast for another 15 minutes.
6. Remove the ham from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and let rest for 15 minutes before carving. Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham juicier.

Juicy and aromatic, this ham boasts a sticky-sweet crust with a hint of tang. Serve it sliced on a platter garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds and herbs for a pop of color.

Molasses and Mustard Crusted Fresh Ham

Nothing beats the bold, tangy-sweet punch of molasses and mustard crusted fresh ham. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to pull off.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 (10-12 lb) fresh ham
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the crust:
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham’s skin in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
3. Rub the ham all over with olive oil to help the crust adhere.
4. In a bowl, whisk together molasses, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth. Tip: For extra depth, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before applying.
5. Generously coat the ham with the molasses-mustard mixture, getting into the scores.
6. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up.
7. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Tip: Baste every 30 minutes with pan juices for a glossy finish.
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before carving. Tip: Tent with foil to keep warm without steaming the crust.

The crust caramelizes into a sticky, crackling shell, while the ham stays juicy inside. Slice it thick for a hearty plate or thin for sliders with a kick.

Citrus-Marinated Fresh Ham with Fresh Thyme

Revolutionize your dinner game with this zesty, herb-packed fresh ham that’s all about bold flavors and juicy tenderness. Perfect for those who crave a dish that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• For the marinade:
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
• For the ham:
  • 5 lbs fresh ham
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, fresh thyme leaves, minced garlic, 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the fresh ham in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ham, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, turning occasionally.
3. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove the ham from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve the marinade.
4. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ham on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast the ham, basting every 30 minutes with reserved marinade, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, about 2-2.5 hours.
6. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.

Yield slices that are bursting with citrusy brightness and the earthy punch of thyme. Serve it up with a side of roasted veggies or slice thin for next-level sandwiches.

Balsamic Glazed Fresh Ham with Caramelized Onions

Bold flavors meet in this balsamic glazed fresh ham with caramelized onions—transform your dinner into a gourmet experience with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• For the caramelized onions:
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Rub the fresh ham with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and roast for 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. While the ham roasts, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.
5. In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Tip: Low and slow is key for perfect caramelization.
6. Brush the ham with half of the balsamic glaze during the last 30 minutes of roasting.
7. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Tip: Resting ensures juicy, tender meat.
8. Serve the ham sliced, topped with caramelized onions and the remaining glaze on the side.

Glazed to perfection, this ham boasts a sticky-sweet crust with melt-in-your-mouth onions. Try serving it over a bed of creamy polenta for a twist on tradition.

Fresh Ham Roast with Honey and Dijon Mustard

Bold flavors meet in this Fresh Ham Roast with Honey and Dijon Mustard—juicy, sweet, and tangy all at once. Perfect for impressing at dinner or spicing up your meal prep.

Ingredients

• For the glaze:
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
• For the ham:
  • 1 (5-6 lb) fresh ham roast
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Pat the ham roast dry with paper towels to ensure the glaze sticks better.
3. Rub the ham all over with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up, and roast for 2 hours.
5. While the ham roasts, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl for the glaze.
6. After 2 hours, brush half of the glaze over the ham and continue roasting for another 30 minutes.
7. Brush the remaining glaze over the ham and roast for a final 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Unbelievable how the honey caramelizes into a sticky-sweet crust, while the Dijon adds a sharp contrast. Serve thick slices with a side of roasted veggies or shred for next-level sandwiches.

Juniper Berry and Bay Leaf Fresh Ham

Transform your dinner with this Juniper Berry and Bay Leaf Fresh Ham—**bold** flavors, **minimal** effort. **Trust** us, your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp juniper berries, crushed
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cups water
• For the glaze:
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham’s surface in a diamond pattern for maximum flavor penetration.
3. Rub the crushed juniper berries and bay leaves all over the ham.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan, add water to the bottom, and cover tightly with foil.
5. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. While the ham roasts, mix brown sugar and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves—**tip**: this creates a tangy base for your glaze.
7. Remove the ham from the oven, uncover, and brush with the brown sugar mixture.
8. Increase oven temperature to 425°F and return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for 15 minutes to caramelize.
9. Mix honey and Dijon mustard for the glaze—**tip**: warm the honey slightly for easier mixing.
10. Brush the ham with the glaze and roast for another 5 minutes.
11. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing—**tip**: resting ensures juicy, tender meat.

Zesty and aromatic, this ham boasts a crispy, caramelized exterior with a succulent interior. Serve it sliced over a bed of roasted vegetables or alongside a sharp cheddar for a contrast in flavors.

Fresh Ham with a Spicy Chili and Brown Sugar Glaze

Make your taste buds dance with this Fresh Ham slathered in a fiery-sweet glaze that’s pure magic. Perfect for shaking up your dinner routine.

Ingredients

• For the ham:
  • 1 fresh ham (about 10 lbs)
  • 2 cups water
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chili powder
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the fresh ham in a large roasting pan and add 2 cups of water to the bottom.
3. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil and roast for 4 hours.
4. While the ham roasts, mix 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup chili powder, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp garlic powder in a bowl to make the glaze. Tip: For a smoother glaze, warm the mixture slightly to dissolve the sugar.
5. After 4 hours, remove the ham from the oven and carefully take off the foil.
6. Brush the ham generously with the glaze. Tip: Use a silicone brush for easy application and cleanup.
7. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F and return the ham to the oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent the glaze from burning.
8. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Juicy inside with a sticky, spicy-sweet crust, this ham is a showstopper. Serve it sliced thin on a platter or piled high on sandwiches for a next-level lunch.

Conclusion

With 19 mouthwatering fresh ham recipes, you’re sure to find the perfect dish for your next special occasion! Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these recipes bring flavor and creativity to the table. Give them a try, then let us know which one was your favorite—and don’t forget to share this roundup with fellow food lovers on Pinterest. Happy cooking!