Looking for the best ham recipe for your next family dinner or holiday feast? With so many tasty options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
That’s why I set out to test Allrecipes’ most popular ham recipes—you know, the ones with glowing reviews and mouthwatering photos.
After spending a weekend in my kitchen (and eating more harm than I care to admit), I’ve rounded up my thoughts to help you pick your new go-to ham dish!
Why Try Allrecipes’ Most Popular Ham Recipes?
Ever notice how ham shows up at all the best gatherings? Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, or just Sunday supper, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
But not all hams are created equal—there’s a world of difference between a bland, rubbery ham and one that’s juicy, flavorful, and begging for seconds.
If you want to impress your guests, knowing the best ham recipes is essential. I figured testing the top-rated ham recipes on Allrecipes would take out some of the guesswork.
After all, if thousands of home cooks love them, there must be something special, right?
How I Tested—And Ate—My Way Through Ham Heaven
Before diving into the results, let me quickly share my process.
- Picked the highest-rated ham recipes from Allrecipes, focusing on those with hundreds (or thousands!) of reviews.
- Gathered all ingredients, sticking as closely to the recipes as possible for a fair test.
- Invited family over for a taste test—because what’s more fun than sharing good food?
I focused on ease of prep (nobody wants to slave away), flavor, texture, and, of course, which ones had us reaching for seconds (and leftovers!).
The Top 5 Allrecipes Ham Recipes—Put to the Test
Ready for the contenders? Here’s how each recipe stacked up in my kitchen.
Brown Sugar and Pineapple Glazed Ham
Let’s start with a classic. This recipe promised a sweet, sticky glaze—think honey-baked ham vibes—using just brown sugar, pineapple juice, and mustard. It came together in minutes and made my kitchen smell amazing as it roasts.
- Pros: Super easy, foolproof, and familiar flavors.
- Cons: Some said it leaned a tad too sweet, especially if you’re not a pineapple fan.
Verdict: Perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a classic holiday ham with minimal fuss. My mom wanted seconds!
Honey-Glazed Ham
This contender brought a simple, beautiful sheen to the table. The glaze mixed honey, brown sugar, cloves, and Dijon mustard. Prep was a breeze—just whisk, pour, and bake. The honey made the edges caramelize so perfectly, I almost ate the crust before slicing.
- Pros: That caramelized exterior is next level. Great for leftover ham sandwiches, too.
- Cons: A touch sweeter than the others. The honey can burn if your oven is too hot, so be careful.
Verdict: A dreamy choice for those who like their ham on the sweeter side, with a show-stopping glaze.
Maple Glazed Ham
If you’ve ever poured maple syrup on your breakfast sausage, you’ll understand the appeal of this one. With maple syrup, brown sugar, and a bit of mustard, this glaze landed somewhere between classic and surprising. It was a hit during our brunch test!
- Pros: Real maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness.
- Cons: The flavor is unique—if you’re not a maple lover, it might not be for you.
Verdict: The ideal pick for brunch lovers or anyone wanting to change up the usual ham routine.
Mustard and Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
This recipe keeps it simple—just Dijon mustard and brown sugar. No pineapple, no honey, just a punch of tang and a bit of sweetness. I loved how the mustard helped cut the richness of the ham—a perfect balance.
- Pros: Tangy and not as sweet. Comes together fast with pantry staples.
- Cons: If you like your ham sweeter, you might want to add a splash of honey.
Verdict: A great everyday ham. Think: weeknight dinner that feels special.
Chef John’s Honey-Glazed Ham
Last but not least, I tried Chef John’s take, which had a special touch—a cider vinegar and honey glaze with warm spices and a generous rub of dry mustard. The ham baked up picture-perfect, and the flavors were bold and balanced.
- Pros: Tons of flavor, thanks to the vinegar and spices. The crust is sticky and savory.
- Cons: A few extra steps, but nothing complicated. Worth it!
Verdict: Great for foodies or anyone wanting a ham with a little extra pizzazz.
And the Winner Is…
This was a tough call! All these hams had fans in my family, and every single recipe is solid. But if we had to pick just one?
Chef John’s Honey-Glazed Ham took the crown. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory was unbeatable.
The finish was glossy, the slices stayed juicy, and it made for delicious leftovers the next day (hello, ham sandwiches!).
Even my picky nephew went back for more. For special occasions—or when you want everyone at the table to swoon—this recipe is a game changer.
Tips for Making the Best Ham at Home
Making juicy, flavorful ham isn’t hard—but a few tricks can make a big difference. Here’s what I learned during my ham marathon:
- Let the ham sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking—this helps it cook evenly.
- Baste often! Glaze the ham several times as it bakes for a beautiful, sticky finish.
- Don’t overcook. Heat until warm (about 140°F internal temp for pre-cooked ham). Too long in the oven and it will dry out.
- Try a spiral-sliced ham for easier serving and prettier presentation.
- Play with flavors. Prefer a little heat? Add cayenne or black pepper to your glaze for a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Ham
Can I make these ham recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Most glazes can be mixed and spread a day ahead. Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave.
What’s the best ham to buy for roasting?
A fully cooked, bone-in spiral ham is the easiest for beginners and gives you tender, juicy slices every time.
How do I store leftover ham?
Leftover ham will keep for 3-5 days covered in the fridge. It also freezes beautifully! Try it in scrambled eggs, fried rice, or soup.
Final Thoughts—Which Ham Recipe Will You Try Next?
If you’re looking for the best ham recipe to impress at your next dinner, you honestly can’t go wrong with any of Allrecipes’ top picks.
Whether you love a classic brown sugar glaze, crave a touch of maple, or want to try Chef John’s special twist, there’s a recipe here for every palate.
Why not try a few and host your own ham taste-off?
So, which ham recipe will you bake up first? Have a favorite glaze trick or family tradition? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear your go-to ham secrets!
Happy cooking, and may your next ham be the star of the show!
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