The holiday season is just around the corner, and Christmas dinner is one of the most anticipated meals of the year. If you’re planning to serve ham as the centerpiece of your festive feast, you’re in for a treat. A succulent ham can be a show-stopping dish that brings warmth and comfort to your holiday table. Whether you prefer a classic glazed ham or want to try something a bit more adventurous, we have gathered a selection of delicious recipes to help you make the most of your holiday ham.
1. Classic Glazed Ham
Let’s start with the quintessential holiday dish – the classic glazed ham. This recipe combines the smoky richness of ham with a sweet and tangy glaze, creating a mouthwatering centerpiece for your Christmas table. To prepare this dish, you’ll need a fully cooked ham, cloves, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, and pineapple juice. Score the ham in a diamond pattern and stud it with cloves. Mix the glaze ingredients together and brush it over the ham. Bake the ham according to package instructions, basting it with the glaze occasionally. The result? A beautifully caramelized, flavorful ham that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
2. Pineapple-Glazed Ham
If you’re looking to add a tropical twist to your Christmas ham, a pineapple glaze is the way to go. This recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory ham, creating a harmonious flavor combination. Start by scoring the ham and securing pineapple rings onto the surface using toothpicks. Mix together pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and ground cloves to make the glaze. Brush the glaze generously over the ham and bake until golden and glazed. The result is a ham with a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
3. Bourbon-Glazed Ham
For those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their Christmas feast, a bourbon-glazed ham is an excellent choice. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly boozy glaze, creating a luxurious and indulgent dish. To prepare this recipe, you’ll need a bone-in ham, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, bourbon, and ground cloves. Mix the glaze ingredients together and brush it over the ham. Bake the ham until it reaches the desired level of caramelization and the glaze has formed a sticky crust. The aroma of bourbon wafting through your kitchen will make your Christmas celebration even more memorable.
4. Ham and Cheese Quiche
If you have leftover ham from your Christmas feast, why not repurpose it into a delicious and comforting ham and cheese quiche? This recipe is perfect for a lazy Christmas morning brunch or a light dinner during the holiday season. Combine diced ham, shredded cheese, eggs, milk, and seasonings in a pie crust, and bake until golden and set. The result is a quiche with a flaky crust, creamy filling, and bursts of savory ham and melted cheese. Serve it warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a fresh salad, for a satisfying and versatile dish that will please the whole family.
5. Ham and Potato Soup
Warm up your Christmas with a hearty ham and potato soup. This comforting dish is ideal for using up leftover ham and creating a nourishing meal during the winter season. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and chopped ham. Simmer until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Finish with a touch of cream, chopped fresh herbs, and seasonings. This soup is a bowl of pure comfort, with tender chunks of ham, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful broth. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying Christmas meal.
6. Ham and Swiss Sliders
If you’re hosting a casual Christmas gathering or need a quick and easy dish for a potluck, ham and Swiss sliders are a crowd-pleasing option. These mini sandwiches are made with Hawaiian rolls, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, and a tangy Dijon mustard glaze. Assemble the sliders, brush the glaze over the tops, and bake until the cheese is melted and the rolls are golden brown. The result is a tray of delicious, bite-sized sandwiches that are perfect for sharing. These sliders are sure to disappear quickly, so make a double batch to satisfy all your hungry guests.
7. Ham and Broccoli Casserole
Elevate your leftover ham with a comforting and flavorful ham and broccoli casserole. This recipe combines diced ham, cooked broccoli, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. Mix the ingredients together, pour into a baking dish, and top with breadcrumbs and more cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden. The casserole emerges from the oven with a creamy, cheesy sauce, tender ham, and vibrant broccoli. It’s a satisfying and wholesome dish that is guaranteed to please the whole family.
8. Ham and Gruyère Stuffed Mushrooms
Impress your guests with elegant and flavorful ham and Gruyère stuffed mushrooms. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for holiday parties or as a pre-dinner snack. Remove the stems from button mushrooms and stuff them with a mixture of diced ham, Gruyère cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly. The combination of earthy mushrooms, salty ham, and creamy cheese creates a delectable bite that will have your guests reaching for more.
Conclusion
When it comes to Christmas dinner, ham is a classic choice that never fails to impress. From the traditional glazed ham to creative and delicious recipes using leftover ham, there are plenty of ways to make your holiday feast extra special. Whether you opt for a sweet pineapple glaze, a sophisticated bourbon glaze, or explore dishes like quiche, soup, sliders, casseroles, or stuffed mushrooms, your Christmas ham will shine as the star of the table. Embrace the festive spirit, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of a ham-filled Christmas celebration.
