spiral ham glaze recipe
The Best spiral ham glaze recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile—it works for a family meal, a potluck, or even just a quick lunch when you need something hearty. The glaze is made with just a few pantry staples, so it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that leftover ham from a holiday spread or a weekend barbecue. And honestly, the health benefits are pretty nice too. The whole-grain bread used for the glaze adds fiber, and the lean protein from the ham keeps things balanced. It’s a dish that’s satisfying without being overwhelming, making it perfect for everyday eating or special occasions alike.

Creamy Garlic Tomato Spiral Ham Glaze
A rich, savory glaze that transforms spiral ham into a restaurant-quality dish with every bite. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a side for grilled meats.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 (8–10 oz) spiral ham
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the spiral ham in a single layer until lightly browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. -
2
Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes. -
3
Lower heat to medium-low, add heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. -
4
Remove from heat, stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper. For a smoother glaze, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. -
5
Return the ham to the skillet, spooning the glaze over it. Cook for 2–3 minutes more to absorb the sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Tomato Spiral Ham Glaze Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Tomato Spiral Ham Glaze
1. How long does the spiral ham glaze take to prepare?
The glaze itself takes about 20 minutes to prepare, but the total cooking time depends on your ham. After baking the ham, simmering the glaze adds roughly 15–20 minutes. If you’re using a slow cooker, the glaze can reduce to a thicker consistency in 2–3 hours on low.
2. Can I make this glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze ingredients separately and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Combine them just before cooking the ham to keep it fresh and flavorful. If using a slow cooker, simmer the glaze for the full reduced time to ensure it thickens properly.
3. What if my ham isn’t spiral-cut?
No problem! If your ham isn’t spiral-cut, you can still use it—just cut it into thick slices before glazing. For even browning, place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation. The glaze will caramelize beautifully on the surface.
4. Can I adjust the sweetness level in the glaze?
Absolutely. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the brown sugar by half (or omit it entirely) and increase the honey or maple syrup slightly. For a tangier flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of cinnamon. Taste as you go!
