There’s something about a perfectly glazed ham at the center of the Thanksgiving table that feels like tradition and indulgence all in one.
Sure, turkey usually gets the spotlight—but let’s be honest, ham brings the flavor. It’s glossy, juicy, and just the right mix of sweet and savory.
Over the years, I’ve learned that a well-cooked ham can do more than just feed a crowd—it anchors the whole meal, creating that cozy, celebratory mood we look forward to all season long.
1. Classic Honey-Baked Ham
Sticky, golden, and sweet with that caramelized crust we all love—this honey-baked ham is a Thanksgiving legend. The honey glaze seeps into every slice, balancing the saltiness of the meat with just the right touch of sugar.
I love brushing the glaze over the ham several times while baking; it builds layers of flavor and that gorgeous lacquered finish. Serve it with roasted carrots or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
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2. Orange Balsamic-Glazed Ham
This one brings brightness to your holiday spread. The citrus from the orange cuts through the richness of the ham, while balsamic vinegar adds depth and a touch of tang. It’s elegant but still easy to make—just whisk, brush, and bake.
The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving each slice that perfect glossy sheen. Add a sprinkle of orange zest on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
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3. Mustard Bourbon Gingersnap Ham
This one’s a flavor powerhouse. The glaze mixes mustard’s sharpness, bourbon’s warmth, and crushed gingersnaps for a sweet-spicy crust that’s downright addictive. It’s bold and aromatic—exactly what a festive table needs.
Gingersnaps add this incredible texture and depth. Serve it with scalloped potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts.
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4. Bourbon-Glazed Ham
If you want your Thanksgiving dinner to smell amazing before guests even walk in, this bourbon-glazed ham is it. The glaze mixes bourbon, brown sugar, and a touch of molasses, coating the ham in a smoky-sweet shine.
As it bakes, the glaze turns sticky and caramelized, giving every bite a melt-in-your-mouth feel. I sometimes use leftover glaze on roasted veggies—it’s too good to waste.
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5. Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham
Simple, classic, and always a hit. This recipe combines brown sugar’s sweetness with the tang of mustard for that perfect flavor balance. The glaze bakes into a sticky crust that clings to each slice, making it irresistible.
It’s the kind of dish that looks fancy but requires minimal effort. Add a touch of apple cider vinegar for a little brightness.
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6. Maple-Syrup Glazed Ham
Rich, silky maple syrup gives this ham a subtle sweetness that feels cozy and comforting. It’s that perfect mix of smoky and sweet, with a golden glaze that makes it shine on the table.
The syrup thickens in the oven, soaking into the meat and adding depth to every bite. I love pairing this with roasted sweet potatoes.
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7. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
A true retro classic that still holds up today. The combination of brown sugar and pineapple creates a glaze that’s sticky, sweet, and full of nostalgia.
The pineapple rings caramelize beautifully as the ham bakes, turning golden and tender. It’s simple, cheerful, and perfect for Thanksgiving.
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8. Hawaiian Ham Sliders
Soft rolls stuffed with slices of sweet glazed ham, melted cheese, and a buttery honey-mustard topping—these sliders are bite-sized happiness. They’re great for leftovers the next day, too.
The combination of savory ham and sweet Hawaiian rolls is pure comfort. Brush the tops with garlic butter before baking for an extra hit of flavor.
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9. Crockpot Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
Low effort, big payoff. This crockpot ham simmers all day in a blend of brown sugar, honey, and pineapple juice, making it fall-apart tender and deeply flavorful.
The best part? You can set it and forget it, freeing up your oven for sides and pies. It’s the best Thanksgiving dinner recipe for when you’re simply too busy to be slaving away in the kitchen for hours.
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10. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Creamy, cheesy, and cozy—this dish is comfort in a casserole. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with diced ham, cream, and melted cheese create a rich, hearty bake that pairs perfectly with your main roast.
It’s also an excellent way to use leftover ham the next day. You can also add a sprinkle of nutmeg for warmth.
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Let Your Thanksgiving Ham Shine
The best part about ham is that it’s nearly impossible to mess up—and even better, it only gets more flavorful with time. Whether you’re team honey, maple, or bourbon glaze, these recipes prove that ham can easily outshine turkey when done right.
It’s versatile enough for a grand holiday centerpiece or an easy leftover transformation the next day. Every slice feels like a little celebration—sweet, savory, and nostalgic all at once.
So this Thanksgiving, let your ham take the spotlight. Fire up the oven, grab your glaze, and make something everyone will talk about long after dinner’s done.
Featured image credit: @omnivorescookbook
