Baked Ham

This holiday-perfect baked ham recipe, made with just four ingredients, will quickly become a tradition in your household.

How to Bake a Ham

Baking a ham at home is easier than you think. You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

Baked Ham Ingredients

You'll need just four ingredients to make the best baked ham of your life:

• Ham: You'll need the rump portion of a bone-in ham. If your ham is larger or smaller than 12 pounds, you'll need to make some adjustments.
• Cloves: Whole cloves add warmth and a certain depth of flavor.
• Sugar: Brown sugar lends more warmth and welcome sweetness.
• Water: Use about an inch of water. This isn't one-size-fits-all, as different roasting pans will need different amounts.

How to Cook Ham In the Oven

Here's a very brief overview of what you can expect when you bake a ham at home:

1. Press cloves into the top of the ham. Pack with brown sugar.
2. Add water to the roasting pan.
3. Bake in the preheated oven until the ham is done.

How Long to Bake Ham

A 12-pound ham should be done after about 4.5 to 5 hours in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center (not touching the bone) should read at least 160 degrees F.

What to Serve With Baked Ham

Looking for some delicious serving inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Check out our collection of 19 Best Side Dishes to Serve With Ham. Here’s a preview of what you’ll find:

• Mom’s Scalloped Potatoes
• Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
• Marinated Black-Eyed Pea Salad

How to Store Baked Ham

Store the leftover baked ham in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat the ham in the microwave or in the oven.

Can You Freeze Baked Ham?

Yes, you can freeze baked ham. Wrap the leftovers in storage wrap, then wrap them again in foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Cookdap Community Tips and Praise

“Very good and very easy,” raves Indysev. “I skipped the cloves as my family doesn’t care for them. The ham was very moist and delicious!”

“I did this recipe for Christmas and it was a big hit,” according to deepali. “I love how easy it was, and that we hardly had leftovers to keep.”

“This was sooo good,” says Cindy Sassack. “The whole family loved it. We skipped the cloves, using brown sugar with pineapple slices instead. It was incredibly moist.”