Paula Deen’s ham recipes have become legendary in Southern cooking circles, and for good reason. The celebrity chef’s approach to preparing ham combines traditional techniques with her signature touch of indulgence, creating dishes that have graced holiday tables across America for years.
Known for her unapologetically rich cooking style, Paula Deen transforms ordinary ham into extraordinary centerpieces that embody the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine. Her recipes don’t just feed families—they create memories around the dinner table.
The Secret Behind Paula Deen’s Ham Success
Paula Deen’s ham preparations stand out because of her attention to glazing and seasoning. Her most popular recipe features a brown sugar and pineapple glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking, creating a sweet and savory crust that contrasts perfectly with the salty meat underneath.
The key lies in her glazing technique. Rather than applying glaze once, Deen recommends multiple applications throughout the cooking process. This builds layers of flavor and creates that signature glossy finish that makes her hams so visually appealing.
Popular Paula Deen Ham Recipes
Honey Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
This recipe combines honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for a glaze that’s both sweet and tangy. Paula recommends scoring the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Pineapple Upside-Down Ham
Taking inspiration from the classic dessert, this creative recipe incorporates pineapple rings and maraschino cherries directly onto the ham’s surface. The fruit juices mingle with the ham drippings to create a naturally sweet glaze.
Cola-Glazed Ham
One of Paula’s more unconventional approaches uses cola as a base for the glaze. The soda’s sweetness and acidity help tenderize the meat while creating a unique flavor profile that surprises and delights guests.
Tips for Perfect Paula Deen-Style Ham
Start with a quality spiral-cut ham for the best results. Paula often emphasizes that good ingredients make all the difference, and this applies especially to the main protein.
Temperature control is crucial. Cook your ham at 325°F and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. This prevents overcooking while ensuring food safety.
Don’t skip the resting period. After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Paula Deen typically serves her ham alongside classic Southern sides like mac and cheese, green bean casserole, and cornbread. The rich, sweet flavors of her glazed ham pair beautifully with these comfort food staples.
For beverages, consider sweet tea or a light white wine that won’t compete with the ham’s bold flavors. The sweetness in both the drink and the glaze creates a harmonious combination.
Bring Southern Hospitality to Your Kitchen
Paula Deen’s ham recipes offer more than just cooking instructions—they provide a pathway to creating the kind of memorable meals that bring families together. Her generous use of sweet glazes and attention to presentation reflect the Southern tradition of making guests feel welcomed and cherished.
Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a special Sunday dinner, incorporating Paula Deen’s ham techniques will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. The combination of traditional methods with her signature flair creates dishes that honor Southern cooking traditions while adding your personal touch to the table.
