Name: Apricot-Glazed Turkey with Roasted Veggies You’ll Adore
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 8-10 lbs Fully cooked bone-in ham (Use boneless ham for faster cooking.); 1 cup Apricot preserves (Can substitute with peach preserves if needed.); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (Yellow mustard can work in a pinch.); 2 tablespoons Brown sugar (Light or dark brown sugar is acceptable.); 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar (Substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used, just adjust to taste.)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen was undeniably enchanting—a fragrant reminder that something special was happening. I was preparing an Apricot Glazed Ham, a dish that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory notes for a festive feast that never fails to impress. This quick and easy recipe is perfect not only for the holiday table but also for any gathering where comfort food reigns supreme. The beautiful glaze caramelizes in the oven, transforming an ordinary ham into a showstopper that’s sure to delight family and friends alike. Plus, with minimal effort required, you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones instead of sweating over the stove. So, are you ready to elevate your next meal with this mouthwatering masterpiece?

Why is Apricot Glazed Ham So Irresistible?

Sweet, Tangy Glaze: The apricot preserves create a luscious, sticky coating that beautifully contrasts the savory ham, making each bite a flavorful delight.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, this recipe allows you to whip up a stunning dish without spending hours in the kitchen, freeing you to savor precious moments.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual Sunday dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests and become their new favorite.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside dishes like Sweet Potato Casserole or Herb and Apple Stuffing for a delightful spread that leaves everyone raving.
Stunning Presentation: The glossy finish of the glaze enhances the visual appeal, making your table look as inviting as the flavors taste. Get ready to shine at your next meal!

Apricot Glazed Ham Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!

For the Ham

Fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 lbs) – Main protein; provides a juicy base. Use boneless ham for faster cooking.

For the Glaze

Apricot preserves (1 cup) – Sweetness; forms the essence of the glaze. Can substitute with peach preserves if needed.
Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons) – Adds tang; contrasts the sweetness for balanced flavor. Yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons) – Sweetness; enhances caramelization during baking. Light or dark brown sugar is acceptable.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Acidity; helps balance the flavors in the glaze. Substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if unavailable.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon) – Aromatic; enhances the savory profile of the ham. Fresh minced garlic can be used, just adjust to taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apricot-Glazed Ham with Roasted Veggies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a large roasting pan and position the fully cooked bone-in ham, cut side down, in the center. This setup will create a cozy environment for the ham to heat through evenly, ensuring that each slice will be juicy and delicious.

Step 2: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during the initial baking phase. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 ½ hours. You’ll know it’s time to remove the foil when the ham is heated through and starts to emanate a warm, inviting aroma throughout your kitchen.

Step 3: Prepare the Apricot Glaze
While the ham is baking, turn your attention to the glaze. In a small saucepan, mix together the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened, around 5-7 minutes. This glaze adds a beautiful layer of flavor to your apricot glazed ham.

Step 4: Glaze the Ham
Once the initial baking time has elapsed, carefully remove the ham from the oven. Brush a generous layer of the warm apricot glaze over the surface of the ham, ensuring that it is well-coated. Return the ham to the oven uncovered, and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes for that glossy finish.

Step 5: Let it Rest
When the timer goes off, your apricot glazed ham will be beautifully caramelized and fragrant. From the oven, take it out and let the ham rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is essential, as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice retains its moist, tender qualities.

Step 6: Serve with Extra Glaze
After the ham has rested, slice it into the desired thickness and serve it warm. For an added touch, drizzle extra glaze over the slices before serving. This final step not only enhances the flavor but also presents your apricot glazed ham as an inviting centerpiece that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your apricot glazed ham ahead of time makes meal planning a breeze! You can cook the fully cooked ham up to 24 hours in advance, simply following the baking instructions until the glazing step. After baking, allow the ham to cool, then loosely wrap it in foil and refrigerate. The apricot glaze can also be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the ham in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 30 minutes, brushing it with the glaze halfway through. This ensures your apricot glazed ham stays just as delicious and juicy, delighting your guests with minimal last-minute work!

What to Serve with Apricot Glazed Ham

The delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes this dish a perfect centerpiece for any festive table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smoothness of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the sticky glaze, creating a harmony of textures to enjoy.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the ham, giving your plate an elegant touch with vibrant color and nutrients.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits will brighten the table and complement the honeyed notes of the apricot glaze delightfully.
Herb and Apple Stuffing: This savory side dish brings aromatic herbs and hearty apples, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your festive feast.
Green Bean Almondine: The crunchy almonds add a delightful texture contrast and a satisfying nutty flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
Glazed Carrots: Slightly sweet, these tender veggies echo the glaze on the ham, making each bite a flavor-filled experience.
Red Wine: A smooth, medium-bodied red wine complements the savory aspects of the dish, enhancing your dining experience with its rich flavor.
Pumpkin Pie: To finish off the meal, this classic dessert’s spices and sweetness create a comforting end that resonates with the festive spirit.

How to Store and Freeze Apricot Glazed Ham

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact and the ham stays juicy for your next meal.

Freezer: If you have larger quantities, slice the ham and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, thaw the ham overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 325°F (163°C). Cover with foil to maintain moisture and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Versatility: Leftover apricot glazed ham can be added to sandwiches, salads, or casseroles, making it a delightful option for quick weeknight meals.

Expert Tips for Apricot Glazed Ham

Score the Fat: Scoring the fat in a diamond pattern allows the glaze to penetrate better, enhancing flavor and creating a visually appealing dish.
Use Foil Wisely: Loosely covering the ham with foil during the first baking phase helps preserve moisture, preventing it from drying out.
Resting is Crucial: Let the ham rest after baking for at least 10 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to remain tender.
Baste Frequently: Don’t skip basting! Reapplying the apricot glaze at 15-minute intervals is key to achieving that luscious, sticky finish everyone loves.
Make It Your Own: Experiment with fruit preserves or spices in your glaze to customize your apricot glazed ham for every occasion.

Apricot Glazed Ham Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this apricot glazed ham recipe to suit your taste—let your creativity shine as you make it your own!

Peach Glaze: Swap apricot preserves with peach preserves for a delightful change in flavor. The sweet notes of peach create a lovely harmony with the savory ham.
Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the glaze for a refreshing citrus kick. It brightens the overall profile; the sweet tang adds an inviting depth to your dish.
Heat It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the glaze for an exciting spicy twist. This adds just the right amount of heat to contrast the sweet notes, making each bite even more memorable.
Spice It Up: Mix in a teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon to the glaze to introduce warm, aromatic flavors. These spices are unexpected yet create a cozy, festive vibe.
Garlic Punch: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust garlic flavor. Fresh garlic can make the glaze shine brighter, adding aromatic depth to your ham.
Brown Sugar Alternative: Try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a less processed sweetness. This swap will provide a slight caramel flavor while being a great alternative for health-conscious diners.
Vegan-Friendly: For a vegan version, replace ham with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. This delicious alternative ensures everyone can enjoy the festive flavors.
Mustard Variations: If you’re out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work in a pinch for a slightly different tang. The flavor remains bold and complements the sweet glaze perfectly.

By exploring these variations, you can make a truly unique apricot glazed ham that suits your preferences and impresses everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Apricot Glazed Ham Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ham?
Choosing the perfect ham is essential. Look for a fully cooked bone-in ham weighing between 8-10 lbs, which allows for optimal flavor and juiciness. If you’re tight on time, feel free to select a boneless ham, as it cooks faster and is easier to slice. Check for quality labels and freshness, and avoid any hams that show signs of spoilage, like dark spots or a slippery texture.

How should I store leftovers from my apricot glazed ham?
Absolutely! To store your leftover apricot glazed ham, place the pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for up to 5 days. Ensure that the ham is cooled to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation inside the container, which could compromise quality.

Can I freeze apricot glazed ham?
Yes, you can freeze apricot glazed ham! I recommend slicing the leftover ham and spreading the slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually first. Once they’re solid (after about 1-2 hours), transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This method allows you to take out only the amount you need later. Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

What if my ham is dry after baking?
If your apricot glazed ham turns out dry, don’t panic! Here are some quick fixes: For an immediate solution, you can drizzle the slices with warm broth or a bit of the leftover glaze to add moisture. In the future, ensure you’re covering the ham with foil during the initial baking phase to help retain moisture. Also, remember to let it rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute inside, resulting in a juicier ham.

Are there any dietary considerations when serving ham?
When serving apricot glazed ham, be mindful of guests with dietary restrictions. While this dish can be enjoyed by most, ensure you have alternatives for those with food allergies. For example, the glaze contains sugar and mustard, which may affect certain diets. You can easily adjust the recipe by using sugar substitutes or gluten-free mustard if necessary. Always check with guests about their preferences before serving!

How long can I keep apricot glazed ham in the refrigerator?
Your apricot glazed ham can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 5 days if kept in an airtight container. Make sure it’s cooled before storing, and check for any off smells or changes in texture before enjoying the leftovers. For even longer storage, freezing is a great option!