If you are searching for a dish that brings together the perfect harmony of tangy, savory, and herbaceous flavors, the Mustard Herb Ham Recipe is exactly what your menu needs. This baked ham is generously coated with a luscious mustard and herb glaze that creates a delightful crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. Perfectly suited for holidays or any special dinner gathering, this recipe transforms a simple ham into a memorable centerpiece that your guests will rave about time and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large, pale pink ham slice with a visible bone sits on the left side of a white marbled surface. Around the ham are small glass bowls containing different ingredients: chopped dark green herbs at the top, smooth yellow mustard to the right, coarse brown mustard at the bottom left, and a small bowl with a golden brown liquid below the mustard. Three peeled garlic cloves and fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme are arranged between the bowls and ham. The overall setup is neat, highlighting the raw ham and fresh ingredients used for cooking. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Mustard Herb Ham Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to enhance the flavor, texture, and aroma of the dish. These easy-to-find staples come together to make a savory yet slightly sweet glaze that complements the rich, smoky notes of the ham.

Fully cooked ham (about 2–3 kg): Provides a hearty and flavorful base ideal for glazing.
Dijon mustard (1/4 cup): Adds sharpness and creaminess, forming the foundation of the glaze.
Whole grain mustard (2 tablespoons): Offers texture and a subtle popping bite to elevate the mustard flavor.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Balances the tanginess with just the right hint of natural sweetness.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps to loosen the glaze for easy brushing and adds smoothness.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses an earthy and slightly minty aroma that pairs beautifully with ham.
Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Brings piney, woody notes that deepen the herbaceous profile.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.

How to Make Mustard Herb Ham Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), which sets the perfect temperature to slowly warm your ham while allowing the glaze to caramelize beautifully. Place the fully cooked ham in a roasting pan, making sure it’s positioned comfortably so the glaze can be spread evenly without mess.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until you get a smooth, fragrant glaze that smells both sweet and herbaceous. This mixture is the star of the Mustard Herb Ham Recipe and will work magic on your ham.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

Brush the mustard and herb glaze liberally and evenly all over the surface of the ham. Don’t be shy here—the glaze forms a delicious outer layer that locks in moisture and flavor. Cover the ham loosely with foil to prevent the glaze from burning during the initial baking phase.

Step 4: Bake and Baste

Bake the covered ham for 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, bring the ham out every 20 minutes or so to baste it with extra glaze pooled in the pan. This step keeps the surface moist and helps the flavors intensify and meld perfectly.

Step 5: Caramelize the Glaze

Remove the foil and increase the heat slightly if needed, baking the ham uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This finishing touch allows the glaze to caramelize and form a golden, slightly crispy coating that tastes irresistible.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once out of the oven, let your ham rest for about 10 minutes. This crucial step lets the juices redistribute so your slices stay moist and flavorful. Then slice and serve warm for a luscious experience of the Mustard Herb Ham Recipe.

How to Serve Mustard Herb Ham Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a cooked ham with a golden-brown, slightly crispy outer layer covered in herbs and spices, featuring a few small green parsley pieces on top. The ham is sliced, revealing several tender, juicy layers inside with a pinkish color. The slices lay stacked in front of the larger main piece, showing the contrast between the browned edges and the inside meat. Some fresh green parsley is visible at the bottom edge, and the whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To complement your ham, consider fresh garnishes such as sprigs of rosemary or thyme that echo the herbs in the glaze. Thin slices of orange or pineapple also brighten the plate visually and add a pop of refreshing sweetness that pairs deliciously with the mustard glaze.

Side Dishes

Classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or honey-glazed carrots bring rich textures and soft flavors that round out the meal. For a lighter contrast, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing pairing that cuts through the richness of the ham.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Mustard Herb Ham Recipe into a show-stopping feast by slicing the ham into thick, chunky pieces and letting guests help themselves as part of a buffet-style meal. Alternatively, arrange slices on a large wooden board surrounded by seasonal fruits and nuts for a rustic, inviting display that encourages sharing and savoring.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to maintain moisture and prevent it from absorbing other refrigerator odors. Reheat gently to preserve the flavor and tenderness.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Mustard Herb Ham Recipe for longer, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Properly wrapped ham can stay frozen for up to 2 months without significant loss of texture or flavor.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slices in a low oven at 160°C (325°F), covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, warming gently in a pan with a splash of broth or water can help you preserve the delicious glaze and tender texture.

FAQs

Can I use a raw ham for this Mustard Herb Ham Recipe?

This recipe calls for a fully cooked ham, which makes preparation easier and ensures the glaze perfectly complements the meat without overcooking. If you use a raw ham, additional cooking time will be necessary, and you should adjust the steps accordingly.

What if I don’t have both Dijon and whole grain mustard?

Using both types of mustard adds complexity and texture, but if you only have one, the recipe will still turn out well. Dijon mustard alone provides smooth tanginess, whereas whole grain offers a bolder, crunchier bite.

Is it possible to add cloves or other spices to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding whole cloves studded into the ham or a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a warm, festive aroma that complements the mustard and herbs wonderfully.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

The mustard herb glaze can be mixed up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just stir it well before using to reincorporate any separated ingredients for a smooth brushing experience.

How do I ensure the ham stays juicy and does not dry out?

Covering the ham with foil during the initial baking phase, basting regularly, and resting the ham after cooking all contribute to maintaining moisture and tenderness in the meat.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Mustard Herb Ham Recipe that makes every occasion feel a bit more festive and every bite more satisfying. Its blend of tangy mustard, fragrant herbs, and gentle sweetness creates a flavor profile that is effortlessly comforting yet impressive. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a weekend family dinner. It’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites that feeds both body and soul.

Mustard Herb Ham Recipe

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3.8 from 80 reviews

Author: Amelia
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

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Description

A flavorful baked ham coated in a tangy mustard and herb glaze, creating a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Ideal for holidays or special dinners.

Ingredients

Ham

1 fully cooked ham (about 2–3 kg)

Mustard Herb Glaze

1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the ham evenly.
Prepare the Ham: Place the fully cooked ham in a roasting pan to catch drippings and allow for even heat distribution.
Make the Glaze: In a bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper to create a tangy and aromatic glaze.
Apply the Glaze: Brush the mustard herb glaze evenly over the surface of the ham to cover it thoroughly with flavor.
Bake Covered: Cover the ham loosely with foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices and glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
Caramelize the Glaze: Remove the foil and continue baking the ham for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and develop a beautiful golden crust.
Rest and Serve: Remove the ham from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices, then slice and serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is heated through to a safe internal temperature of 60°C (140°F) for fully cooked ham.
Add whole cloves to the ham before baking for an additional layer of aromatic flavor if desired.
Let the ham rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing to keep it moist and tender.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American