There is something wonderfully comforting and delightfully festive about the Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe. This all-in-one meal lets you savor a perfectly baked boneless spiral ham paired with tender asparagus and the savory touch of prosciutto, all roasted together on a single pan. The ease of layering flavors — from the brown sugar’s sweetness to the fresh herbs’ aroma — ensures every bite is rich and wholesome, making holiday gatherings feel warm and effortlessly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, combining simple pantry staples and fresh accents to create a dinner that is bursting with flavor, perfect texture, and vibrant colors. The balance of sweet, savory, and herbal notes comes together beautifully on the sheet pan.
- ¾ cup milk (170 grams, warm 100-110°F): The warm milk activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough if you want to serve this with fresh rolls or bread on the side.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (6 grams): Essential for any homemade bread accompaniment, bringing that wonderful rise and texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams, divided): Butter adds richness both in the dough and brushed over the ham for a glossy finish.
- 1 large egg (100 grams): Adds moisture and helps with the dough’s structure for those wishing to make a side bread.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 grams): The base for any bread, perfect if you want to pair this meal with fresh homemade bread to mop up those delicious pan juices.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (3 grams): Balances all flavors while seasoning the dough and other components perfectly.
- 4 pound boneless spiral ham: The star of the dish, naturally juicy and flavorful, spiral cut for perfect serving slices.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds that classic caramelized sweetness on top of the ham’s natural savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme: This herb infuses a subtle earthiness that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic: Garlic introduces a fragrant depth that complements both ham and asparagus.
- 3 ounces thinly-sliced prosciutto (about 8 pieces): Adds a crispy, salty accent around the asparagus, elevating the veggie component.
- ½ pound asparagus (woody ends trimmed): Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast and beautiful green color to the plate.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil: To lightly coat the asparagus, ensuring it roasts tender and flavorful.
How to Make Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ham and Brown Sugar Glaze
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place your boneless spiral ham on the sheet pan. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, minced fresh thyme, and garlic. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the ham, pressing gently to coat the top. This glaze will caramelize in the oven, giving your ham a beautiful golden crust packed with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus and Prosciutto
Trim the woody ends off your asparagus and place the stalks alongside the ham on the same sheet pan. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Then, take the prosciutto slices and drape them over or around the asparagus, which will crisp up nicely alongside the ham as it roasts, adding a savory and slightly crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the juicy meat.
Step 3: Roast Everything Together
Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for about 60 minutes. The ham should be heated through and the sugar glaze a caramelized golden brown. Meanwhile, the asparagus will soften and the prosciutto will crisp up. Keep an eye on the tray to ensure even cooking and adjust the position if necessary to prevent the prosciutto from burning.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once the roasting time is complete, remove the sheet pan from the oven and let the ham rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender and juicy. The asparagus and prosciutto will be hot and ready to serve, making your Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe an easy yet impressive centerpiece for your holiday table.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme over the ham and asparagus adds a lovely pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. For a festive touch, consider adding thin slices of orange or lemon around the plate to brighten the presentation and add a hint of citrus fragrance.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls (which the yeast and flour ingredients can be used for!). A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the ham without overpowering the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this meal straight from the sheet pan is casual and charming, perfect for a cozy family gathering. For a fancier dinner, transfer the ham to a carving platter surrounded by the roasted asparagus and prosciutto bundles. Adding edible flowers or pomegranate seeds can elevate the look for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap leftover ham and vegetables tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover ham slices and roasted asparagus separately in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to press out excess air to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, these will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then, warm in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, covering with foil to keep the ham moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to retain tenderness without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a bone-in ham for the Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in ham, but cooking times may need to be adjusted slightly. Bone-in hams generally require a bit longer to heat through, so keep an eye on the internal temperature and adjust as needed.
Is it possible to substitute asparagus with another vegetable?
Absolutely! Green beans, Brussels sprouts, or roasted carrots all work wonderfully as alternatives and add their unique textures and flavors to complement the ham.
Do I need to add fresh herbs, or can I use dried?
Fresh herbs like thyme really brighten up the dish, but if you only have dried, use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. The flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare this dish fully ahead of time?
While you can prepare the glaze and trim the vegetables a day ahead, it’s best to roast the ham and vegetables the same day to maintain freshness and optimal texture.
What should the internal temperature of the ham be when done?
The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham when reheating. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your ham is warm and safe without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Christmas Ham Dinner Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to celebrate the season because it combines ease with festive flavors and a beautiful presentation. Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner or a cozy holiday gathering, this meal is sure to bring smiles and warm hearts around your table. Give it a try and make your Christmas dinner both delicious and delightfully stress-free!
