If you’re looking for a delicious alternative to turkey this Thanksgiving, ham is an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing choice. A holiday ham can be glazed with brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, pineapple, mustard, bourbon-style flavors, or savory herbs to create a beautiful centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

These 21 Easy Thanksgiving Ham Recipes include classic glazed ham, honey mustard ham, maple ham, pineapple-glazed ham, garlic herb ham, slow-cooker ham, ham steaks, and creative leftover ideas.

Each recipe includes ingredients and step-by-step instructions, making this collection perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a cozy holiday dinner.

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Why Ham Is Perfect for Thanksgiving

Ham can be easier to prepare than a whole turkey because many holiday hams are already fully cooked and simply need to be reheated and glazed.

It’s also versatile. You can choose:

• Spiral-sliced ham
• Bone-in ham
• Boneless ham
• Ham steaks
• Ham portions
• Leftover cooked ham

A sweet glaze creates a traditional holiday flavor, while savory herbs and garlic give ham a more dinner-style profile.

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1. Classic Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

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This classic brown sugar ham is simple, festive, and perfect for a Thanksgiving centerpiece.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked ham, about 6–8 pounds
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ cup water or broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place ham cut-side down in a roasting pan.
3. Cover tightly with foil.
4. Warm according to the package instructions.
5. Meanwhile, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon, orange juice, cinnamon, and cloves.
6. Remove the foil near the end of heating.
7. Brush the ham generously with glaze.
8. Return to the oven uncovered.
9. Brush with more glaze as it caramelizes.
10. Heat the ham to the temperature recommended on its packaging.
11. Rest for 10–15 minutes.
12. Slice and serve.

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2. Honey Glazed Thanksgiving Ham

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Honey creates a beautiful glossy finish and balances the salty flavor of ham.

Ingredients

• 6–8 pound fully cooked ham
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Heat according to package directions.
5. Combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves.
6. Remove foil near the end.
7. Brush ham with glaze.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Apply another layer of glaze before serving.
10. Rest and slice.

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3. Maple Glazed Ham

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Maple syrup gives this ham a cozy fall flavor that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 6–8 pound cooked ham
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover tightly with foil.
4. Warm according to package instructions.
5. Mix maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar, cinnamon, and pepper.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush glaze over the ham.
8. Continue baking uncovered.
9. Brush again with glaze during the final portion.
10. Rest before slicing.

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4. Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham

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Pineapple adds sweetness and acidity that pair beautifully with savory ham.

Ingredients

• 6–8 pound cooked ham
• 1 can pineapple rings
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Maraschino cherries, optional

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package directions.
5. Combine brown sugar, pineapple juice, Dijon, and honey.
6. Remove foil.
7. Arrange pineapple rings around the ham.
8. Brush ham with glaze.
9. Continue heating uncovered.
10. Brush with more glaze before serving.
11. Add cherries if desired.
12. Rest and slice.

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5. Garlic Herb Ham

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Not every Thanksgiving ham needs to be sweet. Garlic and fresh herbs create a savory alternative.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• 4 tablespoons softened butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup broth

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Mix butter, garlic, herbs, and pepper.
4. Rub mixture over the ham.
5. Pour broth into the bottom of the pan.
6. Cover with foil.
7. Warm according to package instructions.
8. Remove foil near the end.
9. Baste with pan juices.
10. Continue heating uncovered.
11. Rest before slicing.

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6. Honey Mustard Ham

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Honey and Dijon mustard create a sweet and tangy glaze.

Ingredients

• 6–8 pound cooked ham
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting dish.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Heat according to the ham package instructions.
5. Mix honey, Dijon, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, and pepper.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush generously with glaze.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Apply additional glaze near the end.
10. Rest and slice.

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7. Apple Cider Glazed Ham

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Apple cider brings a warm autumn flavor that’s ideal for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 6–8 pound cooked ham
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Add ½ cup cider to the bottom of the pan.
4. Cover with foil.
5. Warm according to package directions.
6. Simmer remaining cider with brown sugar, Dijon, honey, cinnamon, and cloves.
7. Cook until slightly reduced.
8. Remove foil.
9. Brush glaze over ham.
10. Continue heating uncovered.
11. Brush again before serving.
12. Rest and slice.

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8. Orange Glazed Ham

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Orange juice and zest add bright citrus flavor to this holiday ham.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Heat according to package directions.
5. Mix orange juice, zest, brown sugar, honey, Dijon, and cinnamon.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush with orange glaze.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Brush with glaze again.
10. Rest before slicing.

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9. Slow Cooker Brown Sugar Ham

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A slow cooker is convenient when the oven is filled with Thanksgiving side dishes.

Ingredients

• 5–7 pound cooked ham
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup honey
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Sprinkle half the brown sugar into the slow cooker.
2. Place ham inside.
3. Pour pineapple juice around it.
4. Mix remaining brown sugar with honey and Dijon.
5. Spread mixture over ham.
6. Cover and cook on low until thoroughly heated.
7. Spoon juices over the ham periodically if practical.
8. Transfer to a baking dish if you want a caramelized exterior.
9. Broil briefly while watching carefully.
10. Rest and slice.

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10. Balsamic Glazed Ham

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Balsamic vinegar adds tanginess that keeps the glaze from becoming overly sweet.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon rosemary
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package instructions.
5. Combine brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, rosemary, and pepper.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush glaze over ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Brush again during the final portion.
10. Rest before carving.

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11. Brown Sugar Bourbon-Style Glazed Ham

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This rich glaze combines brown sugar, mustard, and warm spices. For an alcohol-free version, simply replace bourbon with apple juice or additional broth.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup apple juice
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package directions.
5. Combine all glaze ingredients.
6. Simmer briefly until smooth.
7. Remove foil.
8. Brush ham generously.
9. Continue heating uncovered.
10. Brush again before serving.

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12. Peach Glazed Ham

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Peach preserves make an easy glaze with a sweet, fruity flavor.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup peach preserves
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover and warm according to package directions.
4. Mix peach preserves, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar, cinnamon, and pepper.
5. Remove foil.
6. Brush glaze over ham.
7. Continue heating uncovered.
8. Brush again near the end.
9. Rest for 10–15 minutes.
10. Slice and serve.

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13. Cranberry Glazed Ham

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Cranberries make this ham especially appropriate for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon thyme

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package directions.
5. Combine cranberry sauce, brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon, and thyme.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush cranberry glaze over the ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Add another layer of glaze.
10. Rest before slicing.

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14. Peach Dijon Ham

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Peach and Dijon create a sweet-and-tangy glaze that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 5–6 pound cooked ham
• ½ cup peach preserves
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon thyme

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting dish.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package instructions.
5. Mix preserves, Dijon, honey, vinegar, and thyme.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush glaze over the ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Brush with glaze once more.
10. Rest and slice.

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15. Smoked Paprika Ham

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Smoked paprika adds depth and a subtle smoky flavor.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package directions.
5. Mix all glaze ingredients.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush glaze over ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Brush again before serving.
10. Rest and slice.

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16. Rosemary Garlic Ham

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If you prefer savory flavors, this rosemary garlic ham is a great alternative to a sugary glaze.

Ingredients

• 5–6 pound cooked ham
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Mix butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and pepper.
3. Place ham in a roasting pan.
4. Spread herb butter over the surface.
5. Add broth to the pan.
6. Cover with foil.
7. Heat according to package instructions.
8. Remove foil.
9. Baste with pan juices.
10. Continue heating until thoroughly hot.
11. Rest before slicing.

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17. Apple Butter Glazed Ham

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Apple butter provides concentrated apple flavor and pairs wonderfully with salty ham.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup apple butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Warm according to package directions.
5. Mix apple butter, brown sugar, Dijon, vinegar, and cinnamon.
6. Remove foil.
7. Brush glaze over the ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Apply another coat before serving.
10. Rest and slice.

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18. Pineapple Honey Ham

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This recipe combines two classic ham flavors: pineapple and honey.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Pineapple rings

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Add pineapple juice to the pan.
4. Cover ham with foil.
5. Warm according to package instructions.
6. Combine honey, brown sugar, and Dijon.
7. Remove foil.
8. Brush ham with glaze.
9. Arrange pineapple rings on top.
10. Continue heating uncovered.
11. Brush with additional glaze.
12. Rest and serve.

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19. Mustard Herb Ham

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A mustard-based glaze is perfect if you prefer a less-sweet holiday ham.

Ingredients

• 6-pound cooked ham
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon rosemary
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Place ham in a roasting pan.
3. Cover with foil.
4. Heat according to package directions.
5. Mix both mustards, honey, olive oil, herbs, and pepper.
6. Remove foil.
7. Spread mustard mixture over ham.
8. Continue heating uncovered.
9. Brush again before serving.
10. Rest and slice.

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20. Ham Steaks With Maple Butter

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Ham steaks are ideal for a small Thanksgiving meal because you don’t need to prepare an entire holiday ham.

Ingredients

• 2 ham steaks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add butter.
3. Place ham steaks in the skillet.
4. Cook until lightly browned on both sides.
5. Mix maple syrup and Dijon.
6. Pour glaze over the ham.
7. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
8. Sprinkle with thyme and pepper.
9. Serve immediately.

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21. Leftover Thanksgiving Ham and Potato Casserole

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Don’t let leftover ham go to waste. Turn it into a comforting casserole for the next day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked ham, chopped
• 3 cups cooked or thinly sliced potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a small casserole dish.
3. Layer potatoes and chopped ham.
4. Mix sour cream, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture over the potatoes.
6. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
7. Add breadcrumbs.
8. Dot with butter.
9. Bake until hot and bubbling.
10. Continue until the top is golden.
11. Rest for 5–10 minutes.
12. Serve warm.

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How to Choose the Right Thanksgiving Ham

There are several types of ham available, and each works slightly differently.

Spiral-Sliced Ham

A convenient option because it’s already sliced. It’s especially good for serving a crowd.

Bone-In Ham

The bone adds flavor and can be saved for soup or beans after the meal.

Boneless Ham

Easy to carve and portion, making it convenient for smaller gatherings.

Ham Steaks

Excellent for two to four people because you don’t need to prepare a large roast.

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How Much Ham Do You Need?

As a general planning guide:

Ham Type	Approximate Amount
Boneless ham	¼–⅓ lb per person
Bone-in ham	⅓–½ lb per person
Ham with substantial leftovers	½ lb+ per person
Ham steaks	1 per person

The exact amount depends on the ham’s bone-to-meat ratio, appetite, and how many side dishes you’re serving.

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How to Glaze a Thanksgiving Ham

For the best glaze, don’t add it too early.

Step 1: Warm the Ham

Most fully cooked hams should first be heated according to their package directions.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

Combine your chosen ingredients:

• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Maple syrup
• Mustard
• Fruit juice
• Spices

Step 3: Add the Glaze Near the End

Brush the glaze over the ham during the final portion of heating.

Step 4: Caramelize

Return the ham to the oven uncovered so the glaze can become glossy and lightly caramelized.

Step 5: Rest

Allow the ham to rest briefly before slicing.

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Best Thanksgiving Ham Glaze Combinations

Classic

Brown sugar + honey + Dijon + cloves

Fall-Inspired

Maple syrup + brown sugar + cinnamon + Dijon

Fruity

Pineapple juice + brown sugar + honey

Citrus

Orange juice + orange zest + honey + mustard

Tangy

Balsamic vinegar + brown sugar + Dijon

Savory

Garlic + rosemary + thyme + butter

Thanksgiving-Inspired

Cranberry sauce + orange juice + brown sugar + Dijon

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Thanksgiving Side Dishes for Ham

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Ham pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory sides.

Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes
• Scalloped potatoes
• Roasted potatoes
• Sweet potato casserole

Vegetables

• Green beans
• Brussels sprouts
• Roasted carrots
• Creamed spinach
• Corn casserole

Classic Thanksgiving Sides

• Stuffing
• Cranberry sauce
• Dinner rolls
• Mac and cheese
• Gravy

Fresh Sides

• Apple salad
• Green salad
• Cranberry walnut salad
• Roasted vegetable salad

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What to Do With Leftover Thanksgiving Ham

One of the biggest benefits of making ham is the leftovers. Here are some easy ideas:

Ham and Egg Breakfast

Dice ham and cook it with scrambled eggs and cheese.

Ham Sandwiches

Layer ham with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mustard.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Add sliced ham and cheese to small rolls and bake until warm.

Ham Potato Soup

Use leftover ham with potatoes, carrots, onions, and broth.

Ham Mac and Cheese

Fold diced ham into creamy macaroni and cheese.

Ham Fried Rice

Add chopped ham to fried rice with vegetables and eggs.

Ham and Bean Soup

The ham bone can add wonderful flavor to bean soup if you’re using a bone-in ham.

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How to Store Leftover Ham

Refrigerate leftover ham promptly in shallow airtight containers or tightly wrapped storage.

Use refrigerated leftovers within 3–4 days.

For longer storage, freeze the ham in freezer-safe packaging.

If you have a ham bone, refrigerate or freeze it promptly and use it for soups or beans.

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How to Reheat Ham Without Drying It Out

The key is gentle reheating.

Oven Method

1. Place ham in a baking dish.
2. Add a little broth, water, or juice.
3. Cover tightly with foil.
4. Heat gently until thoroughly warmed.

Skillet Method

For slices:

1. Heat a skillet over low to medium heat.
2. Add a small amount of water or broth.
3. Add ham.
4. Cover.
5. Warm gently.

Avoid prolonged high heat because it can make ham dry and tough.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is ham a good alternative to turkey for Thanksgiving?

Yes. Ham is a popular holiday centerpiece and can be easier to prepare, particularly when using a fully cooked ham.

What is the best ham for Thanksgiving?

That depends on your preferences. Spiral-sliced ham is convenient, bone-in ham is flavorful and useful for leftovers, and boneless ham is easy to carve.

Do I need to cook a fully cooked ham?

A fully cooked ham generally needs to be reheated according to the package instructions, rather than cooked from raw. Always check the product label because preparation instructions vary.

When should I add the glaze?

For many glazed ham recipes, adding the glaze during the final portion of reheating helps prevent the sugars from burning.

Can I make ham ahead of time?

Yes. Ham can be prepared ahead and gently reheated before dinner. Keep it properly refrigerated and avoid overcooking during reheating.

How do I keep ham moist?

Cover the ham while initially reheating it and add a little broth, water, or juice to the pan. Apply sugary glaze later in the process.

Can I use a spiral ham?

Yes. Spiral ham works particularly well with these glaze recipes because the glaze can work its way between the slices.

Can I make Thanksgiving ham in a slow cooker?

Yes, provided the ham fits safely in the slow cooker and you follow the product’s heating instructions. A slow cooker can be especially useful when oven space is limited.

What can I do with a leftover ham bone?

Use it to add flavor to bean soup, split-pea soup, vegetable soup, or other long-simmered dishes.

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Easy Thanksgiving Ham Menu

For a complete Thanksgiving dinner centered around ham, try this combination:

Main

Classic Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Side 1

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Side 2

Green Bean Casserole

Side 3

Sweet Potato Casserole

Side 4

Cranberry Orange Sauce

Bread

Soft Dinner Rolls

Dessert

Pumpkin Pie

This menu gives you the classic Thanksgiving flavors while making ham the star of the table.

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Final Thoughts

These 21 Easy Thanksgiving Ham Recipes offer plenty of ways to create a delicious holiday centerpiece without complicated preparation. Whether you prefer a classic brown sugar glaze, honey mustard, maple syrup, pineapple, cranberry, apple cider, or savory garlic and herbs, there’s a ham recipe here for every Thanksgiving table.

For a traditional holiday flavor, try the Classic Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. If you love fall flavors, the Maple Glazed Ham or Apple Cider Glazed Ham is a wonderful choice. For something fruity, try Pineapple Brown Sugar Ham or Cranberry Glazed Ham.

And if you’re only cooking for a few people, Ham Steaks With Maple Butter are a simple way to enjoy Thanksgiving ham without preparing a large roast.

Serve your ham with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and warm dinner rolls for a cozy holiday feast.

Save these 21 Thanksgiving Ham Recipes for your holiday menu and share them with someone planning Thanksgiving dinner! 🐖🍂🦃