Brown Bag Baked Ham

My Simple, Surprisingly Delicious Brown Bag Baked Ham

As a busy working mom, time in the kitchen is a precious commodity. I'm always looking for recipes that are quick, easy, and deliver big on flavor without requiring hours of prep and slaving over a hot stove. This Brown Bag Baked Ham is my absolute go-to for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a simple Sunday brunch. It’s unbelievably simple, yet the result is a juicy, tender ham that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No basting, no glazing, no complicated techniques – just a paper bag, an oven, and a perfectly delicious ham. The paper bag creates a sort of self-basting effect, keeping the ham moist and tender while allowing it to cook evenly. I discovered this method quite by accident, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer. I used to dread preparing ham, anticipating the hours of work and the potential for a dry, disappointing result. This method completely eliminated those fears.

I’ve used this recipe countless times for various occasions. It's been a lifesaver during busy work weeks when I need a quick and satisfying meal, and it's also impressed guests at several gatherings. The ease of preparation allows me to spend more time with my family and less time stressing over dinner. And the cleanup? Minimal! The paper bag does most of the work for you!

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your ham, ensuring it’s cooked perfectly every time. And because it's so simple, I can easily incorporate it into a larger meal plan. I often serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. The ham itself is incredibly flavourful, so you don't need a lot of extra fuss to make it a memorable meal.

Seriously, this is a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. The unexpected deliciousness of this simple method will impress your family and friends. It's the perfect example of how sometimes the easiest recipes are the most rewarding. Give it a try – you won't be disappointed!

Tips and Variations:

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme inside the bag before cooking.
• Experiment with different types of ham. A bone-in ham will generally be more flavorful and juicy.
• If you prefer a sweeter ham, you can brush it with a little honey or maple syrup after removing it from the bag.
• Leftover ham is great in sandwiches, salads, or quiches. It’s also amazing the next day cold, so don't feel the need to make a huge meal!

This Brown Bag Baked Ham recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simplicity in the kitchen. It's a recipe that celebrates the ease of cooking and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. So, give it a try and experience the magic for yourself!

Step-by-step

• Place oven racks in the lowest and highest positions then preheat oven to 325 degrees.
• Place a cooling rack on top of a 9x13" baking dish then set aside.
• Cut the handles off a paper grocery bag then place the ham inside.
• Roll the opening of the bag down then press the bag around the ham and place on top of the cooling rack.
• Bake for 18 minutes per pound (so for a 2lb ham bake for 36 minutes).
• Remove ham from bag, slice and serve.