Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake: A Must-Try Delight!

Introduction to Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

Every time I think about the perfect centerpiece for a holiday gathering, the first thing that comes to mind is the Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake. This dish not only impresses my family and friends, but it also gets them talking about how delicious it is!

When life gets busy, I know I can count on this recipe to be a quick solution that looks and tastes gourmet. The sweet and tangy glaze melts into the juicy, spiral-cut ham, creating a delightful experience that warms the heart. Trust me, it’s a must-try delight!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

This Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake is the answer to your busy weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, saving you precious time without skimping on flavor. The combination of sweet orange and savory ham creates a taste sensation that will leave everyone craving more. Plus, the stunning presentation will make you feel like a culinary hero in your own home, bringing joy to every table!

Ingredients for Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and with this Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake, each component plays a vital role in making this dish unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Spiral-sliced bone-in ham: The star of the show! Choose a hunk of ham that’s juicy and holds the flavor well. Look for one with even slicing for easy serving.
• Navel orange: This adds a fresh burst of citrus flavor. No need to peel it—just thinly slice for that beautiful zing.
• Garlic: I love adding sliced garlic for a savory punch. It balances perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze.
• Fresh rosemary: Its aromatic flavor infuses the ham with a delightful herbaceous note. Feel free to use dried rosemary in a pinch.
• Orange marmalade: This sweet spread brings the glaze to life. It adds texture and sweetness in one delicious scoop!
• Light brown sugar: A must for that caramelization effect. Brown sugar provides a deeper flavor profile than regular sugar.
• Honey: This natural sweetener rounds out the glaze with a hint of floral notes that blend beautifully.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a touch of tanginess! If you prefer a milder flavor, yellow mustard works just as well.
• Freshly grated orange zest: This enhances the dish with intense orange flavor. Always zest the orange before juicing for the best results!
• Freshly squeezed orange juice: Keep it real with freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor. Store-bought can be too sweet!

Find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of this article, where you can also print the recipe for your convenience. Happy cooking!

How to Make Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

Creating this beautiful Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a stunning dish ready to impress your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!

Preheat and Prepare the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 163°C. While that’s warming up, grab a large roasting pan and line it with aluminum foil. This little trick makes cleanup a breeze!

Next, place a roasting rack inside the pan. This helps the heat circulate, ensuring even cooking. Tuck the slices of navel orange, garlic, and rosemary between the ham slices. This’ll infuse flavor into every bite!

Now, position the ham cut side down on the rack. This keeps the juices locked in during baking, making it succulent and flavorful.

Bake the Ham

Once everything’s set, cover the ham loosely with foil. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes. This slow roasting gives the ham time to develop that irresistible flavor.

Try not to peek—keeping the oven door closed helps maintain that perfect temperature!

Make the Orange Glaze

During the last 15 minutes of the initial baking, it’s time to whip up the orange glaze. In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, orange zest, and freshly squeezed orange juice.

Whisk this mixture over medium-low heat until it’s smooth and the sugar dissolves. The aroma will have you dreaming of tropical sunsets!

Apply the Glaze

Remove the foil from the ham, exposing its beautiful surface. Generously brush the glaze all over the ham. Don’t be shy here; your ham deserves all that deliciousness!

Make sure to get it in between the slices for maximum flavor. It’s like giving your ham a spa treatment!

Finish Baking

Return the ham to the oven, but this time, keep it uncovered. Bake for an additional 45 minutes. Remember to brush with more glaze halfway through. As it bakes, it will turn caramelized and glossy—just glorious to behold!

Rest and Serve

Once it’s beautifully browned, remove the ham from the oven. Tent it loosely with foil and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes. Patience pays off here; resting allows the juices to redistribute for that juicy bite.

Finally, transfer your masterpiece to a serving platter. Slice around the bone for easy serving, and savor the reactions when everyone digs in!

Tips for Success

• Always let the ham rest before slicing; it retains those delicious juices.
• For even more flavor, marinate the ham overnight with the glaze ingredients.
• Keep an eye on the glaze; if it starts to burn, reduce the oven temperature.
• Experiment with herbs like thyme or sage for a unique twist!
• Don’t skip the foil cover during the first baking—this helps keep the ham moist.

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan: Large enough to hold the ham; a broiler pan works too!
• Roasting rack: Essential for even cooking; you can use oven-safe wire racks as an alternative.
• Aluminum foil: Helpful for easy cleanup and keeping the ham moist.
• Small saucepan: For making the orange glaze; a skillet can also do the job!
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the glaze; a fork works in a pinch.

Variations of Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a zesty twist that balances the sweetness.
• Pineapple Addition: Throw in some pineapple slices with the orange for extra tropical flair and sweetness.
• Herb Swap: Try using fresh thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different, yet equally delicious, herbal touch.
• Maple Glaze: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that’s equally scrumptious.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, particularly the Dijon mustard, are gluten-free for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions for Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes to balance the sweetness of the ham.
• Serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful, nutritious side.
• A fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• For drinks, try a crisp white wine or sparkling cider for a festive touch.
• Garnish with additional orange slices and rosemary sprigs for an elegant presentation!

FAQs about Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake

Can I make the Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before glazing the ham.

How do I store leftovers from the Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep it juicy!

Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap out the spiral-sliced ham for a bone-in ham or even a pre-cooked ham. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Orange Glazed Spiral Ham?

This ham pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh salad. A nice wine or cider elevates the meal!

Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

The Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake is gluten-free, but always check labels on ingredients like Dijon mustard to be sure they meet dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on the joy that the Orange Glazed Spiral Ham Bake brings to the table, I can’t help but smile. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness, laughter, and warmth. The aroma wafting through the kitchen creates an inviting atmosphere that your loved ones will cherish.

Every slice reveals the delightful caramelization that brings so much flavor to each bite. Whether it’s a festive occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this dish allows me to express my love in delicious bites that leave lasting memories. Happy cooking!

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