Best Baked Ham For Thanksgiving (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a delicious main dish to serve for Thanksgiving dinner, consider baking a ham. With its salty and sweet glaze, a baked ham is a classic holiday recipe that never goes out of style. But with so many options out there, how can you choose the best one for your table?
First and foremost, consider the size of your gathering. You’ll want to purchase a ham that is large enough to feed everyone, but not so large that you’ll be eating leftovers for weeks. Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ham. Look for a product that is free of preservatives, artificial colors, and added hormones. It’s also important to decide on the type of ham you want to serve. Do you prefer a classic spiral-cut ham or would you like something more unique?
When it comes to selecting the best baked ham for Thanksgiving, there are a few questions to consider. Do you want a traditional or modern recipe? Are you looking for a moist and tender ham or one with a crispy exterior? Would you rather go for a pre-cooked ham or cook it yourself? Do you want to stick to a specific dietary requirement like gluten-free or organic? Answering these questions can help you narrow down your search and find the perfect baked ham to impress your guests this Thanksgiving.
10 Best Baked Ham For Thanksgiving
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This product is ideal for those who want a delicious, honey glazed ham with a smoky flavor as the main dish for their meal.
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Ideal for breakfast or as a snack, its biscuit cuts and blue ridge mountain curing give it a unique taste.
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It is ideal for those looking for a flavorful, bone-in ham that has been cured in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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The product is ideal for serving 14-16 people during holiday gatherings and events.
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Ideal for holiday gatherings or events with 16-18 guests looking for a delicious ham option.
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The product is ideal for holiday meals or special occasions where guests are looking for a variety of meats.
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Ideal for holiday celebrations, family gatherings and special occasions as a delicious and easy-to-prepare main dish.
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It is ideal for those who want high-quality country ham from the Blue Ridge Mountains in multiple convenient packages.
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Ideal for quick, delicious and hassle-free meals without compromising on quality or taste.
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It is ideal for adding flavor to meals and can be used in a variety of recipes.
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1. Burgers' Smokehouse Honey Glazed Hickory Smoked City Ham (7 To 8.5 Lbs.)
Introducing the Fully Cooked and Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham with Honey Glaze – a delectable addition to your holiday table!
This ham boasts a convenient spiral sliced design, making serving a breeze. The secret to its moist and succulent texture? It's cured with a special recipe sweet brine solution, resulting in a flavor that is sure to impress your guests.
Ready to serve straight out of the package, this ham is fully cooked and hickory smoked to perfection. The honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavor of the ham.
In just about an hour, you can have a traditional holiday meal on your table by adding our gourmet side dishes and desserts. This ham is the ultimate in convenience, without sacrificing quality or taste.
Impress your family and friends with the Fully Cooked and Hickory Smoked Sweet City Ham with Honey Glaze – a delicious centerpiece for your next holiday gathering.
2. Rays Country Ham – 1.5 Lb. / 3-8 Oz. Packs – Biscuit Cuts – Blue Ridge Mountain Cured
Ray's Country Ham Biscuit Cuts are a beloved Southern comfort food made from high-quality cuts of ham, perfectly portioned to match up with biscuits. Ray Goad, the original pioneer of fast food breakfast, served his famous Country Ham Biscuits, and now you can enjoy that same traditional flavor with your family for breakfast or special occasions.
The best country ham is cured naturally with salt, sugar, and spices, harkening back to the methods used on family farms in Appalachia before electricity and refrigeration. Ray's Country Ham Biscuit Cuts are made with premium quality ham that is dry-cured and naturally aged to create a distinctive taste that can only be described as Country Ham.
Sharing good food is a way of showing you care, and Ray's Country Ham Biscuit Cuts are sure to make you a hero at family picnics, potlucks with friends, or the office. Surprise your loved ones with the authentic taste of Country Ham Biscuits, made with Ray's original recipe.
While homemade buttermilk biscuits are always a great option, Ray's recommends frozen biscuits found in your local market as a quick and easy alternative. Some of the best choices are Pillsbury Grands Southern Homestyle Buttermilk Biscuits, Mary B's Buttermilk Biscuits, and Walmart's Great Value Frozen Buttermilk Biscuits.
3. Rays Country Ham – 16 Lb. – Whole Bone-In Country Ham – Blue Ridge Mountain Cured
Introducing Carolina Country Ham – a delicious, artisanal meat that is unlike any other. This ham is cured using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of our family. The USDA requires that Country Ham be cured in salt and air-dried until it has lost 18 percent of its weight in water and contains 4 percent salt. As we gently age our hams with ambient temperatures matching the annual seasons, the once humble ham becomes what can only be called a Country Ham, with the addictive taste, aroma, and texture like no other.
Our ham is aged using the salt and dry curing method that harks back to a time before electricity, where food was preserved on family farms in the Blue Ridge Mountains. During the aging process, a benign mold may appear on the ham, which is typical and expected. The mold can be easily removed by scrubbing the ham with water and a brush. If you love Country Ham, you will find the saltiness is intense and just right. If you are new to Country Ham and don't like strong salty tastes, this Ham might not be for you.
Those who grew up eating Country Ham give us five-star reviews and tell us that they have "finally found it." But our story also attracts those who are expecting their Mother's City Ham, and we are just as disappointed as they are when they don't like it. Bon Appétit Magazine says it best: "To Southerners and pork devotees, Country Ham is legendary: an exquisite dry-cured artisanal meat rivaling prosciutto in its rosy-hued perfection." A taste from another place in time, this ham is truly unique.
If you're looking for a special gift for your friends and family, look no further than Carolina Country Ham. Sharing good food is our way of showing we care, and our ham is sure to bring back memories of home for those who have relocated and miss the familiar tastes and aromas. Our Whole Bone-in Ray’s aged dry-cured Country Ham is a wonderful way to surprise your loved ones.
To ensure you get the most out of your ham, we include an "owner's manual" with each purchase. From the day your ham arrives from our farms, we have followed the traditional artisanal methods for curing hams that our family has used for nearly 75 years! We care so much about our hams that we want to make sure you know how to care for them and the different ways in which you can prepare them to be enjoyed.
4. Honey Glazed Spiral Sliced Gourmet Holiday Ham 7.5-8.5 Pounds Serves 14-16.
For over 30 years, The Holiday Ham Company has been providing families across the country with mouth-watering hams that are perfect for any occasion. Their fully-cooked, spiral-cut hams are glazed with honey and smoked for over 30 hours with hickory embers, resulting in a delectable and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.
The Holiday Ham Company has been recognized by three national magazines as having the Best Ham, making them a trusted and reputable source for premium quality hams. Their low-salt option is perfect for those who are health-conscious and looking for a delicious yet healthy alternative.
Orders placed by May 29th will be promptly delivered by June 2nd, making it easy and convenient for customers to receive their hams in a timely manner. Regardless of the size of your family, The Holiday Ham Company's hams are designed to serve all, making them the perfect choice for any gathering or dinner party.
5. Honey Glazed Spiral Sliced Holiday Ham. 8-9 Pounds. Serves 16-18.
For over 30 years, The Holiday Ham Company has been providing families all across the country with the finest quality hams. Our hams have been awarded the title of Best Ham by three different national magazines, and for good reason! Our Honey Glazed and Spiral Sliced ham is a true delight for the taste buds.
Our hams are low in salt, with only 800 mg per 3 oz serving, which is 35% less sodium than our competitors. This means that you can enjoy our delicious ham without worrying about your salt intake.
Our fully-cooked, spiral-cut hams come with a beautiful honey glaze on top. They are perfectly smoked with hickory embers for over 30 hours to give them their unique flavor. You won't want to miss out on this mouth-watering perfection!
Our hams are perfect for a dinner party or holiday celebrations with your family and friends. We guarantee that our hams will serve families of all sizes and leave your guests wanting more.
If you place your order by Monday, May 29th, you can expect your delicious ham to be delivered by Friday, June 2nd. Don't wait any longer to experience the savory taste of our award-winning ham. Order now and taste the difference for yourself!
6. Honey Glazed Holiday Ham And Smoked Turkey Breast Combo.
For over 30 years, The Holiday Ham Company has been a beloved provider of delicious, fully-cooked hams that are perfect for dinner parties or holiday celebrations. In fact, the company has been recognized as the Best Ham by three different national magazines. The exquisite Holiday Ham weighs 7 to 8 pounds and is spiral-cut with a gorgeous honey glaze on top. The hams are expertly smoked with hickory embers for over 30 hours, resulting in a mouth-watering flavor and tender texture that is sure to delight your taste buds.
In addition to the Holiday Ham, the company also offers a fantastic Smoked Turkey Breast that weighs 3.5 to 4 pounds. This turkey breast is also fully-cooked and smoked to perfection, making it a wonderful option for those who prefer poultry to ham.
If you're interested in ordering from The Holiday Ham Company, be sure to place your order by Monday, May 29th, to ensure delivery by Friday, June 2nd. With their long-standing reputation for quality and deliciousness, you can trust that your meal will be a hit with family and friends.
7. Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham + Seasoning (Spiral Sliced Ham And Omaha Steaks Seasoning)
Introducing the Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham, the perfect solution to a stress-free holiday meal. This premium ham weighs 8 pounds and is slow-cooked and smoked for a full 24 hours, producing a succulent and flavorful meat that will be a hit with friends and family alike.
One of the standout features of the Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham is its delicious torch-glazed brown sugar crust, which adds a sweet and savory touch to the meat. This ham is spiral-sliced for easy serving, and it takes the effort out of creating a memorable holiday centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Omaha Steaks takes pride in its products, and the Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham is no exception. Each ham is flash-frozen and individually vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness, ensuring that every slice is as delicious as the first. Simply thaw the ham in the refrigerator, unwrap it, and cook it in the oven for a delicious and effortless meal.
This pack contains one 8-pound Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham, which is perfect for feeding a large family or group of friends. With its premium quality, delicious taste, and easy preparation, the Omaha Steaks Spiral Sliced Ham is an excellent choice for any holiday meal or special occasion.
8. Rays Country Ham – 2 1/4 Lb. / 3-12 Oz. Packs – Blue Ridge Mountain Cured
Experience the rich and authentic taste of natural air-dried Country Hams, cured for generations on the family farms of Appalachia with Ray's Restaurants original style. As a food service pioneer, Ray Goad was the first to serve his famous Country Ham Biscuits in a fast food restaurant.
Surprise your friends and family with a thoughtful gift of Ray's Country Ham, and share the joy of good food with those who matter most. With a legacy of 75 years in the traditional artisanal craft of curing premium quality Country Ham, Ray's is the go-to brand for those who know how real Country Ham tastes.
Each package of Ray's Country Ham includes center slice and end cuts, carefully selected to provide you with the most premium quality product. Ray's Country Ham is a cut above the rest, and is not to be confused with other processed ham brands claiming to be Country Ham.
Indulge in the unique and delicious taste of Ray's Country Ham and experience a taste from another place in time.
9. Fully Cooked Smoked Ham Meal From Kansas City Steaks
Introducing a delicious and convenient meal package that will satisfy any food lover's craving. The package consists of a fully cooked Spiral Sliced Ham, Mac and Cheese Casserole, and a Mississippi Mud Cake.
The Spiral Sliced Ham is hickory smoked, honey glazed and bone-in for superior flavor. Weighing between 7.25 – 8.5 lbs, this ham is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a family gathering, holiday feast or a simple dinner. The ham is fully cooked, which makes it easy to prepare and serve.
The package also includes a 32 oz Mac and Cheese Casserole, a classic comfort food that will definitely be a crowd-pleaser. The casserole is carefully prepared with the perfect blend of cheeses, creating a creamy and delicious dish that will leave everyone wanting more.
For dessert, the package comes with a 7" Mississippi Mud Cake, a southern favorite. The cake is rich and decadent, with layers of chocolate cake, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream, topped with a generous amount of chocolate chips. It's the perfect ending to a perfect meal.
But that's not all, the package also includes a FREE Kansas City Steak Book, filled with expert cooking instructions, grilling times and tips, recipes and more. This book will definitely be a great addition to any cooking enthusiast's collection.
10. Petite Country Ham 3-4 Pounds
Indulge in the savory, mouth-watering taste of Virginia's Finest salt-cured Virginia Country Ham, a top-of-the-line product that promises to exceed your expectations. This ham is a perfect balance of saltiness and sweetness, and its texture is firm yet tender. It is a great alternative to Smithfield or Edwards brands, and you'll relish every bite of it.
This boneless ham weighs between 3-4 lbs and is already cooked, so it's ready to be served right away. It can be shipped to your doorstep with ease and has a decent shelf life of 10 days without refrigeration, 8 weeks if refrigerated, and 6+ months if frozen. You can enjoy this ham on its own or pair it with cheese, sandwiches, biscuits, soups, salads, pastas, omelettes, and potatoes. The possibilities are endless.
This salt-dry cured ham is locally sourced, and its petite size makes it a perfect fit for Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year's, and as an everyday meal. If you are unable to find a whole ham, you can consider buying Virginia Gourmet Country Ham Slices, which are equally delicious.
If you plan to serve this ham for Christmas, we recommend placing your order before December 6th to ensure it arrives on time. This ham makes a wonderful gift for all occasions and is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Try Virginia's Finest salt-cured Virginia Country Ham today and experience the taste of perfection.
Best Baked Ham For Thanksgiving FAQs
Can I freeze leftover Thanksgiving ham?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Thanksgiving ham. Freezing ham is a great way to extend its shelf life and preserve its flavor and texture for later use. To freeze leftover ham, you should slice it into portions and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped ham slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and label it with the date. Frozen ham can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer, but it is best to consume it within the first month for optimal flavor and quality. When you are ready to use the frozen ham, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave if you are in a hurry. Once thawed, you can use it in a variety of dishes such as soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and salads.
Can I prepare my Thanksgiving ham the night before?
Yes, you can definitely prepare your Thanksgiving ham the night before. In fact, preparing your ham ahead of time may actually improve its flavor. You can either cook the ham completely and then reheat it on Thanksgiving Day or you can partially cook it and finish it off the next day. If you choose to fully cook the ham, make sure to let it cool to room temperature before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator. When it's time to serve, simply reheat the ham in the oven or microwave until it's heated through. If you decide to partially cook the ham, follow the instructions on the packaging, and then finish the cooking process on Thanksgiving Day. Whichever method you choose, make sure to handle the ham properly to ensure it stays safe to eat and retains its delicious flavor.
How can I repurpose leftover Thanksgiving ham in other dishes?
There are several ways to repurpose leftover Thanksgiving ham in other dishes. One of the easiest is to chop the ham and add it to scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast. Another idea is to use the ham in a creamy pasta dish, such as a carbonara or alfredo sauce. You could also make a ham and cheese quiche, or add it to a vegetable soup for added flavor and protein. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even make a ham and pineapple pizza or a Cuban sandwich. Whatever you decide to do with your leftover ham, be sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to use it. By doing so, you can stretch your Thanksgiving leftovers into several delicious meals.
How do I choose the best ham for Thanksgiving?
Choosing the best ham for Thanksgiving can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the various types of hams available. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect ham for your Thanksgiving feast.
Firstly, you need to consider the type of ham you want. There are two main types of ham: city ham and country ham. City ham is the most popular type and is typically brined and smoked. Country ham, on the other hand, is dry-cured and aged for several months.
Secondly, consider the cut of the ham. The most common cuts are the shank and butt portions. The shank is leaner and easier to carve, while the butt is juicier and more flavorful.
Thirdly, consider the size of the ham. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about ½ pound of ham per person. If you are serving a large group, you may want to consider getting a bone-in ham as they tend to be more flavorful.
Lastly, consider the brand and quality of the ham. Look for hams that are labeled as “fully cooked” or “ready-to-eat” as they are easier to prepare. Also, choose hams from reputable brands and avoid those with added water or fillers.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best ham for your Thanksgiving feast that will satisfy your guests' taste buds while also being easy to prepare.
How long should I let my Thanksgiving ham rest before carving it?
After removing your Thanksgiving ham from the oven, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before carving it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that your ham is moist and tender.
The length of time you should let your ham rest depends on its size. As a general rule, for every pound of ham, you should let it rest for 10-15 minutes. So, if you have a 10-pound ham, you should let it rest for at least 1 hour and 40 minutes.
During this resting period, you can cover the ham with foil to keep it warm. Once the resting period is over, you can begin carving your ham. Remember to carve against the grain to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Overall, letting your Thanksgiving ham rest for an adequate amount of time is crucial to achieving a delicious and moist final product.
Should I cook my ham covered or uncovered for Thanksgiving?
The answer to this question depends on the type of ham you are cooking and your personal preference. If you are cooking a pre-cooked ham, it is recommended to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out while heating. You may also want to add some liquid, such as water or apple juice, to the bottom of the pan to help keep the ham moist.
On the other hand, if you are cooking a fresh ham, you may want to leave it uncovered to allow the skin to crisp up and develop a golden brown color. Be sure to check the temperature regularly to ensure that the ham is cooked all the way through.
Ultimately, the decision to cook your ham covered or uncovered will come down to your personal preference and the type of ham you are cooking. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully and use a meat thermometer to ensure that your ham is safe to eat.
What are some delicious side dishes to serve with a baked ham for Thanksgiving?
There are a variety of delicious side dishes that can be served with baked ham for Thanksgiving. One classic option is sweet potatoes. Whether mashed, roasted, or in a casserole, sweet potatoes complement the saltiness of the ham and add a touch of sweetness to the meal.
Another popular side dish is green beans, whether sautéed, roasted, or in a casserole. Adding almonds or bacon can give them an extra crunch and flavor.
Stuffing is also a great option, as the savory flavors pair well with the ham. Cornbread stuffing, sausage stuffing, or traditional bread stuffing are all delicious options.
For something a little different, consider serving a fall-inspired salad with mixed greens, apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette dressing. Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and beets can also be a colorful and tasty addition to the meal.
Overall, the key is to balance the flavors and textures of the side dishes with the baked ham, creating a well-rounded and satisfying Thanksgiving meal.
What are the best ingredients to use for a Thanksgiving ham glaze?
When it comes to preparing a Thanksgiving ham, the glaze is just as important as the ham itself. A good glaze can add a delicious layer of flavor to the ham and make it the star of the dinner table. There are many ingredients that can be used for a ham glaze, but some of the best ones include brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, and pineapple juice.
Brown sugar and honey are great choices for adding sweetness to the glaze. They caramelize nicely when baked, giving the ham a beautiful shiny finish. Mustard is another essential ingredient that adds a tangy flavor to the glaze. Cloves are often paired with ham because they complement its smoky flavor, and they also add a warm and spicy note to the glaze. Finally, pineapple juice is an excellent choice for adding a tropical twist to the ham. It also helps to tenderize the meat while giving it a subtle sweetness.
In conclusion, the best ingredients for a Thanksgiving ham glaze are brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, and pineapple juice. However, feel free to experiment with other ingredients that you may like and create your own unique glaze recipe.
What is the best type of ham to bake for Thanksgiving?
When it comes to baking ham for Thanksgiving, there are several types of ham that you can choose from. However, the best type of ham to bake for Thanksgiving depends on your personal preference and the size of your gathering. If you prefer a sweet and tender ham, then a honey-glazed ham or a spiral-cut ham with a brown sugar glaze might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a savory and smoky flavor, then a smoked ham or a country-style ham might be a better option. It's also important to consider the size of your gathering when choosing a ham. A bone-in ham is ideal for larger gatherings, while a boneless ham is more suitable for smaller gatherings. Ultimately, the best type of ham to bake for Thanksgiving is the one that suits your taste and your needs.
What is the perfect temperature to bake a Thanksgiving ham?
The perfect temperature to bake a Thanksgiving ham depends on the weight and type of ham being used. Generally, for a fully cooked ham, the recommended temperature is 325°F (162°C). For an uncooked ham, the temperature should be increased to 350°F (177°C). The cooking time also varies depending on the weight of the ham. A rule of thumb is to allow for approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound of ham. However, it is always important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ham reaches 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham, or 160°F (71°C) for an uncooked ham. This will ensure that your Thanksgiving ham is cooked to perfection and is safe to eat. Additionally, allow the ham to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to ensure the juices are distributed evenly throughout the meat.
