If you want a show-stopping centerpiece for your next special occasion, this Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a tender, fully cooked ham luxuriously coated in a tangy mustard and herb glaze that perfectly balances savory depth with a touch of natural sweetness. Every bite delivers a fragrant burst from thyme and rosemary, while honey adds just the right hint of caramelized magic. It’s an ideal dish for holidays or any time you want to impress your loved ones with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large pink ham with a visible bone takes up most of the left side, showing smooth and slightly fibrous texture with light marbling. Above the ham is a small clear glass bowl with bright green chopped herbs. To the right of the bowl are three light beige garlic cloves and a small bundle of dark green rosemary and thyme sprigs. On the right side, there are three small white bowls: one with smooth yellow mustard, one with a rich brown liquid honey, and one with grainy brown mustard seeds. All items are arranged on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the unforgettable flavor and appealing texture of this Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe. From the creamy Dijon mustard that brings a smooth tang, to the herbs that infuse wonderful aromas, every element counts.

Fully cooked ham (about 2–3 kg): The star of the show; opt for a quality ham with a bit of fat for juiciness.
Dijon mustard (1/4 cup): Adds a silky texture and sharp, sophisticated tang to the glaze.
Whole grain mustard (2 tablespoons): Offers a delightful pop and texture contrast with its grainy seeds.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Provides natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps bind the glaze ingredients and keeps the ham moist.
Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses subtle earthiness and warmth throughout the ham.
Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant pine-like aroma that complements the ham perfectly.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a gentle kick that rounds out the flavors without overpowering them.

How to Make Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature allows the ham to heat evenly without drying out. Place your fully cooked ham in a roasting pan, fat side up, so it can baste itself during cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of the recipe — the combination of tangy, sweet, and herbal notes will elevate your ham to new heights.

Step 3: Glaze the Ham

Brush the glaze generously and evenly all over the surface of the ham. Coating it thoroughly ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Cover the roasting pan loosely with foil to keep the moisture in while allowing some steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake and Baste

Bake the ham in your preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours. During this time, every 20 to 30 minutes, baste the ham with the pan juices and extra glaze if you have any left. This keeps the ham extra moist and helps build layers of flavor.

Step 5: Final Caramelization

Once the covered baking time is complete, remove the foil and put the ham back in the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, giving the outer layer a gorgeous golden crust that adds both visual appeal and a touch of sweetness.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Take the ham out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy slices every time.

How to Serve Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe

A close-up view of a roasted ham with several thin slices cut and arranged in front. The ham's outer layer is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and scattered herbs, while the inside is light pink and tender. The slices have a glossy surface with hints of seasoning and small bits of herbs. Some green parsley leaves lay next to the ham on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme or thin slices of lemon can brighten the presentation and complement the fragrant herbs in the glaze. Adding some whole grain mustard on the side is also a fantastic way for guests to add an extra punch of flavor.

Side Dishes

This ham pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant green bean almondine. For a lighter touch, a crisp apple and fennel slaw offers a refreshing balance to the rich meat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the sliced ham on a large wooden cutting board surrounded by bowls of mustard, honey mustard sauce, and pickled vegetables for a rustic, interactive platter. Or create individual mini ham sliders with crusty rolls and tangy slaw — perfect for casual gatherings or brunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap the ham tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Proper storage helps maintain the moisture and prevents the glaze from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice the ham and individually wrap servings in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen ham will keep well for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm slices in a covered pan over low heat or in the oven at 160°C (325°F), brushing with a little extra glaze or broth to keep it juicy. Avoid high heat reheating, which can dry out the ham and dull the vibrant mustard herb glaze.

FAQs

Can I use a half ham or ham steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! The glaze and cooking method work well for smaller cuts too. Adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid overcooking — typically about 30 to 45 minutes for a ham steak, just until heated through and caramelized.

Do I need to score the ham before glazing?

Scoring the ham is optional. Some like to score a diamond pattern to help the glaze penetrate and create a decorative effect, but the glaze will still be deliciously flavorful without scoring.

Can I add cloves or other spices to the glaze?

Yes, adding whole cloves studded into the ham or incorporating spices like cinnamon or allspice can add warmth and complexity. Just be careful with strong spices so they don’t overpower the mustard and herbs.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, as long as you ensure your Dijon mustard and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to be safe, especially with processed condiments.

How far in advance can I prepare the ham?

You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to glaze and bake the ham on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite dishes to make whenever family or friends gather. It’s straightforward yet feels incredibly special thanks to the vibrant glaze that turns an ordinary ham into a flavorful masterpiece. If you’re searching for an easy way to wow your guests and fill your home with an irresistible aroma, give this recipe a try — you won’t regret it!

Mustard Herb Baked Ham Recipe

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3.9 from 47 reviews

Author: Alice
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. This dish is ideal for holidays or special dinners, featuring a tender, juicy ham with a caramelized crust from the baked glaze.

Ingredients

Ham

1 fully cooked ham (about 2–3 kg)

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 Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the ham evenly.
Prepare Ham: Place the fully cooked ham in a roasting pan, ensuring it’s stable for even heat distribution.
Make Glaze: In a bowl, combine Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, flavorful glaze.
Apply Glaze: Brush the mustard-herb glaze evenly over the entire surface of the ham, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
Initial Baking: Loosely cover the ham with foil to prevent drying, then bake it in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with the pan juices or additional glaze to keep it moist.
Caramelize Glaze: Remove the foil and continue baking the ham for an additional 15–20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, creating a beautiful golden crust.
Rest and Serve: Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and makes for easier slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is properly heated to an internal temperature of at least 60°C (140°F).
Adding whole cloves stuck into the ham before glazing adds extra aromatic flavor if desired.
Letting the ham rest before slicing allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful serving.

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