When the hustle and bustle of the holiday season begins, I often find myself in search of the perfect centerpiece that marries ease with flavor. That’s when I stumbled upon my beloved Instant Pot Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze—an absolute game-changer for festive gatherings. With its sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully, this dish not only saves oven space but also delivers mouthwatering taste with minimal effort.
Picture this: a juicy spiral ham, tender and fragrant, infused with a delightful blend of orange juice, honey, and spicy brown mustard. Each slice melts in your mouth, leaving a citrusy aroma that fills the kitchen and brings loved ones together around the table. Whether hosting a cozy dinner or a grand holiday feast, this quick-recipe ham ensures that you can spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this delectable holiday staple that’s bound to impress!
Why is Instant Pot Ham a Must-Try?
Effortless Preparation: This Instant Pot Ham recipe simplifies your holiday cooking, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort – perfect for busy hosts.
Savory Sweetness: The luscious honey-mustard glaze adds a delightful balance of flavors, creating a dish that’s both sweet and savory.
Impressive Presentation: Your guests will be wowed by the beautifully glazed exterior and juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the ham.
Cook Once, Enjoy Later: Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches or casseroles, ensuring you savor every bite long after the feast.
Space-Saving Solution: Free up your oven for other dishes while this centerpiece cooks perfectly in your Instant Pot. Enjoy a stress-free holiday with this amazing dish!
Instant Pot Ham Ingredients
For the Glaze
- Orange Juice – Adds bright acidity to balance sweetness; can substitute with grapefruit juice for a unique twist.
- Honey – Provides sweetness and helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- Spicy Brown Mustard – Delivers a kick of heat; regular Dijon mustard can be used for a milder flavor.
For the Ham
- (6- to 8-lb.) Cooked Bone-in Spiral Ham – The show-stopping centerpiece that’s pre-cooked, ready to heat and flavor.
Enjoying this Instant Pot Ham makes holiday festivities effortless and delightful!
How to Make Instant Pot Ham
-
Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine the orange juice, honey, and spicy brown mustard. Whisk until smooth. This delightful mixture will coat your ham and create a gorgeous caramelized finish.
-
Set Up the Instant Pot: Place the spiral ham in the pot, making sure it’s trimmed if necessary to fit. Pour the honey-mustard glaze evenly over the ham, ensuring every inch is covered for rich flavor.
-
Cook: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
-
Finish the Sauce: Open the pot and check if you want to reduce any remaining glaze to thicken it a bit more. Serve this scrumptious sauce alongside the ham for added flavor with each slice.
Optional: Garnish slices with fresh herbs for an added pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Instant Pot Ham
Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot Ham in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It will keep the flavors intact and remain juicy for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Frozen ham can last up to 2 months without losing its moistness.
Reheating: Thaw frozen ham overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm slices gently in the microwave or oven covered with foil to retain moisture, ensuring a delicious meal every time.
Airtight Storage: If you have a large amount, consider dividing it into smaller portions. This way, you can enjoy the ham later without having to thaw the entire batch.
Make Ahead Options
The Instant Pot Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts wanting to ease holiday stress! You can prepare the glaze (orange juice, honey, and spicy brown mustard) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can place the spiral ham in the Instant Pot without the glaze and cover it for up to 3 days before cooking, which allows flavors to deepen while preventing drying out. When you’re ready to serve, pour the prepared glaze over the ham, cook it in the Instant Pot, and enjoy the same delicious results as if you made it fresh! This way, you’ll save time and still impress your guests with your fabulous cooking!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze?
When planning a meal around this delectable ham, consider a variety of sides that enhance its sweet and savory flavors.
-
Blistered Sugar Snap Peas: These crunchy peas add a fresh and vibrant contrast that brightens the plate. Their slight sweetness pairs beautifully with the honey-mustard glaze.
-
Fluffy Potato Rolls: Soft and warm, these rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze left on your plate. They create a comforting, homey vibe for any gathering.
-
Crispy Smashed Potatoes: With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, these potatoes are a delightful textural counterpoint to the tender ham, adding heartiness to the meal.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty, earthy flavor to the table, complementing the ham’s sweetness while offering a nutritious boost.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the ham, making each bite feel light and enjoyable.
-
Homemade Apple Sauce: The fruity sweetness of apple sauce lends a delightful contrast to the savory ham, enhancing its flavors and adding nostalgia to the meal.
-
Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink choice brings a cheerful note to your meal, while its sweetness pairs exceptionally well with the honey-mustard glaze.
-
Pumpkin Pie Bars: For dessert, these bars offer a seasonal touch with their spiced flavor profile, rounding out your meal with a comforting, sweet finish.
Embrace the joy of creating a memorable dining experience by pairing your Instant Pot Ham with these delicious options!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Ham
-
Perfect Pressure: Ensure the Instant Pot is at least 6 quarts to fit the entire ham comfortably while cooking.
-
Trim Wisely: If your ham is too large, consider trimming excess meat. This helps close the lid securely and ensures even cooking.
-
Rest for Easier Slicing: Allow the ham to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain juices for a more flavorful bite.
-
Taste the Glaze: Adjust the glaze to your liking! If desired, add more honey for sweetness or mustard for a spicier kick to enhance the overall flavors of your Instant Pot Ham.
-
Avoid Overcooking: Follow the cooking time closely; overcooking may dry out the ham. Trust the natural pressure release to maintain tenderness.
Instant Pot Ham Variations
Customize your Instant Pot Ham to create new, exciting flavors that suit your taste buds and occasion!
-
Spicy Twist: Swap in hot honey for an extra kick that elevates the glaze, making each bite a flavorful surprise.
-
Fruity Delight: Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist that beautifully complements the ham’s savory notes.
-
Herby Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic finish that adds depth to the dish.
-
Maple Magic: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a deliciously sweet and unique glaze that enhances the ham’s natural flavors.
-
Citrus Burst: Use a mix of orange and lemon juice to brighten the glaze, creating a zesty layer that refreshes each slice of ham.
-
Bourbon Boost: A splash of bourbon in the glaze adds a rich, smoky flavor that transforms this classic recipe into a gourmet experience.
-
BBQ Brush: Brush the ham with your favorite BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking for a satisfying, smoky flavor that jazzes things up.
-
Savory Bacon: Add crumbled crispy bacon on top before serving for a crunchy texture that takes your ham to the next level.
Each variation invites you to explore creative combinations, ensuring your Instant Pot Ham is always a delightful centerpiece that captures the spirit of the season!
Instant Pot Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your cooked bone-in spiral ham, look for one that is well-marbled with just a hint of fat for added flavor and moisture. A ham weighing between 6 to 8 pounds is perfect for fitting into most 6-quart Instant Pots. Avoid hams with dark spots or an excessively dry appearance, as these can indicate poor quality.
What is the best way to store leftovers from my Instant Pot Ham?
Very! To maintain the flavor and moisture, store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer duration, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag—this allows you to enjoy your delicious ham later. Stored this way, it can last for up to 2 months in the freezer without losing its quality.
Can I freeze my leftover Instant Pot Ham and how?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to enjoy your ham later. First, allow the ham to cool completely, then slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and to add an extra layer of protection and prevent freezer burn, place these wrapped slices into a freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date for easy reference; frozen ham is best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal taste.
What should I do if my Instant Pot Ham comes out dry or tough?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If you find your ham is a bit on the dry side, try adding a splash of broth or water next time before cooking to help maintain moisture. Also, ensure the natural pressure release time is adhered to, as this allows the meat to relax and redistributes the juices. When reheating, consider adding a bit of glaze or moisture to keep it juicy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this ham recipe?
Yes, very! If you have gluten allergies, be sure to check the mustard and any glaze ingredients for hidden gluten. For those with sugar concerns, you can swap regular honey with a sugar-free alternative, and use a sugar-free mustard if desired. Always consult with your guests about food allergies to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
Can pets enjoy the leftover ham?
While they might love the smell, be cautious! Ham is high in salt and can be tough on a pet’s digestive system. If you want to share, give them only a small amount of unseasoned meat and consult with your vet first. Always prioritize their health and safety!
Instant Pot Ham with Honey-Mustard Glaze for Effortless Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the orange juice, honey, and spicy brown mustard. Whisk until smooth.
- Place the spiral ham in the pot, pour the honey-mustard glaze evenly over the ham.
- Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
- Open the pot and check if you want to reduce any remaining glaze to thicken.