The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (2024)

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By Elena

Dec 13, 2022, Updated Mar 11, 2024

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The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy). Perfectly seasoned with herbs, spices, and a hint of brown sugar, this makes for the juiciest ham roast with a delightfully crispy outer layer.

This is a beautiful holiday ham recipe (Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter). Serve it for special occasions, or make it a family dinner night favorite! Serve with roasted potatoes and a beautiful salad. For leftovers, try Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta.

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (1)

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)

This easy ham roast recipe is the best way to cook fresh ham. Fresh ham is, for the money, the most delicious cut of pork available.

There is something to love for everyone in this recipe: the crackle fat crust on the outer layer and the herby, salty, and sweet with a slight orange aroma to the tender fresh ham meat.

We cook it low and slow to break down the tough parts of the ham and make it super tender. The meat is cooked to perfection. Some pink is in the center, juicy and yielding slightly to the touch!

This beautiful fresh ham roast inevitably leads to applause and awe from everyone at your special gathering.

You will also love these recipes Seared T-Bone Steak Recipe and Roasted Beef Tenderloin!

Table of Contents

  • The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)
  • Simple Ingredients
  • What is a Fresh Ham Roast
  • Where to Buy a Fresh Ham
  • How to Make The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)
  • Variations
  • Pan Gravy
  • Equipment for Easy Ham Roast
  • Storage
  • Top Tips
  • Fresh Ham FAQs
  • What to Serve with Fresh Ham Roast
  • The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)

Simple Ingredients

The star of the show is the fresh ham roast. The other ingredients are simple and only highlight the flavor of the delicious ham meat.

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (2)
  • Fresh ham (not precooked or cured)

Rub

  • Kosher salt
  • Brown sugar
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh thyme
  • Fresh Rosemary

Cooking Liquid

  • Cold Water
  • White wine

Oranges for cooking (optional)

See the recipe card for quantities.

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What is a Fresh Ham Roast

A ham roast is not pre-cooked like a typical precooked ham variety, spiral-cut ham, ham steaks, country ham, city ham, or cured ham.

A fresh ham roast is raw ham called “fresh” since it is uncured, uncooked, and unsmoked. Fresh ham is not processed in any way. You can compare it to other varieties of roasts, such as rump roast and pork shoulder roast.

Ham roasts are very tender and come from a leaner cut of pork. Ham roast comes from the hind leg of the pork with a nice fat layer.

Where to Buy a Fresh Ham

You can buy fresh ham in almost any grocery store. If you don’t see it out where you see all the other meat ask the grocer if they have some in the back, or they can order it for you. You can request bone-in ham (more flavor, in my opinion) or boneless ham.

Suppose you want to make this for a special occasion or serve it for Easter dinner or another holiday meal. In that case, I suggest ordering it in advance from grocery stores since everyone is running to buy a fresh ham or other ham roast variety.

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How to Make The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)

This fresh ham roast is so easy to make. The hardest part is remembering to baste it during the cooking process.

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Place a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 425 degrees F. Score ham in a diamond pattern (crisis cross) of ½-inch-deep cuts about 1½ inches apart.

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (6)

In a small bowl, combine salt, brown sugar, pepper, and thyme, pinching the thyme until it becomes fragrant. Pat mixture all over the ham and into scores on the ham roast.

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Place orange slices on the bottom of a roasting rack in a large roasting pan (this step is optional and only if using oranges). Place ham fat side on the rack on the bed of orange slices. Pour water and white wine into the bottom of the pan.

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Roast for ½ an hour at 425 degrees F.
Turn the heat down to 300 degrees F. We want to cook it low and slowly to tenderize the meat. If needed, add water to the pan to keep pan juices from burning.

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Bake until a meat thermometer is pressed into the thickest part of the ham and the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees*, about 3-31/2 hours. The top will be nice and golden brown, and the interior will be tender.

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Tent the fresh ham roast with aluminum foil and let the roast rest for 30-45 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife. Save pan drippings to make pan gravy, or spoon over the meat.

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Variations

The next time you try this fresh ham roast recipe, you can try these variations.

  • Spices – if you want to add more traditional American flavors to this fresh ham roast, try adding cloves to the spice rub.
  • Sweet – you can add more brown sugar to make it sweeter or even a bit of maple syrup to make it a maple spice glaze. Alternatively, you can use honey to make a honey glaze. A little soy sauce to the honey glaze would add a nice touch. I love this fresh ham more savory than sweet, but you can customize it as you, please.
  • Pineapple Juice – add instead of the wine for a sweeter sauce.
  • Whole Cloves – poke in the outer layer of the skin for added taste.
  • Cooking Liquid – for the cooking liquid, you can use beer, cider, stock, or all water.
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Pan Gravy

If you wish to make pan gravy, degrease the pan juices, thicken with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of flour and add a bit of stock.

You can also pair this ham with our Brown Sugar Ham Glaze!

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Equipment for Easy Ham Roast

Storage

If you have leftovers store the sliced ham in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Enjoy the leftover ham in sandwiches with our focaccia bread. You can also use the leftovers to make Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta (with White Sauce) or this Bean Soup with Ham.

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Top Tips

  • Let your fresh ham roast come to room temperature on the counterbefore roasting in the oven. The roast will be largely overcooked around the outside, with only a tiny ring of perfectly cooked meat in the very center if it is cooked straight from the fridge. Take it out a couple of hours before cooking for the best results.
  • Keep an eye on your fresh ham while it cooks:During the roast, be sure that the liquid in the bottom of the pan doesn’t dry out (add more water if needed).
  • Let it rest!The resting time is crucial for flavor. Be patient; let it rest; you’ll be happy you did when you cut into your succulent fresh ham roast.
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Fresh Ham FAQs

Is fresh ham the same as a pork roast?

In short, no, it is not. Ham is made from the hind legs of the pork, and the pork shoulder corresponds to the front legs of the pig.

Is a fresh ham roast the same as a cured ham?

No, it is not the same as your “standard ham.” A fresh ham isan uncured leg of pork. Fresh ham will have the term “fresh” in the product’s title. The term fresh signifies that the product has not been cured in any process. Fresh ham is also not pre-cooked. It is raw ham.

How long should you cook a fresh ham?

For fresh, unsmoked ham,a bone-in whole leg cooks for 22-26 minutes per pound. A boneless whole leg cooks for 24-28 minutes per pound. Half the bone-in cut cooks for 35-40 minutes per pound. The internal temperature of the baked ham should reach 150-160 °F(with a 30-minute rest time- at least). Cook in an oven set no lower than 300 °F.

How do I know my ham roast is done cooking?

A general rule for cooking fresh ham is to remember that the ham roast will have carryover cooking. This means the meat continues to rise in temperature as the roast rests (about 10º). This means that you will take it out when it is about 10º below your desired doneness based on this chart.
The Final Temperature (after resting) for Medium Done ham is: 150º F
– This means you take it out at around 140º F
– After letting it rest for about 30 minutes, it will reach 150º F

The BEST way to check for doneness is to use an instant-readthermometer. This will ensure that it is cooked perfectly, no matter the size of your fresh ham roast.

What to Serve with Fresh Ham Roast

Cut your fresh ham roast into thin slices, or thick slices depending on your preference, and serve with a side of good quality dijon mustard. Here are a few delicious side ideas to consider when serving this outstanding meat dish.

Green beans,Brussels sprouts,Creamy Cauliflower Bake,Crispy Potatoes,Italian Mashed Potatoes, orEasy Green Beans and Pinenuts. Make sure to get somecrusty bread or rolls for the sauce. You can also pair it with this Fresh Cranberry Relish!

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The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (17)

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy)

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The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy). Perfectly seasoned with herbs, spices, and a hint of brown sugar this makes for the juiciest ham roast with a delightfully crispy outer layer. This is a wonderful holiday ham recipe (Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter). Serve it for any special occasion, or make it a family dinner night favorite! Serve with roasted potatoes and a beautiful salad.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

UnitsScale

  • 1 10-pound fresh ham bone-in or bone less (not precooked or cured)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 34 oranges, cut into 1-inch slices
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, minced
  • 2 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 cup white wine

Instructions

  1. Place a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 425 degrees F. Leave the fat layer on the ham. Score ham in a diamond pattern (crisis cross) of ½-inch-deep cuts about 1½ inches apart.
  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, brown sugar, pepper, and thyme, pinching the thyme until it becomes fragrant. Pat mixture all over the ham and into scores on the ham roast.
  3. Place orange slices on the bottom of a roasting rack that is in a large roasting pan. Place ham fat-side up on the bed of orange slices on the rack. Pour water and white wine into the bottom of the pan.
  4. Roast for ½ an hour at 425 degrees F.
  5. Turn the heat down to 300 degrees F. We want to cook it low and slowly to tenderize the meat. Add water to the pan, if needed, to keep pan juices from burning.
  6. Bake until a meat thermometer is pressed into the thickest part of the ham and the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees, about 3- 3 1/2 hours (see notes). The top will be nice and golden brown, and the interior will be tender.
  7. Tent the fresh ham roast with aluminum foil and let the roast rest for 30-45 minutes before slicing with a sharp knife. Save pan drippings to make pan gravy, or spoon over the meat.

Notes

*For food safety, ensure your ham reaches at least 150-160 degrees F. If you cook a bigger ham roast, you may need to increase the cooking time. Get a Good Meat Thermometer here.

How do I know my ham roast is done cooking?

For fresh, unsmoked ham,a bone-in whole leg cooks for 22-26 minutes per pound. A boneless whole leg cooks for 24-28 minutes per pound. Half the bone-in cut cooks for 35-40 minutes per pound.

A general rule for cooking fresh ham is to remember that the ham roast will have carryover cooking. This means the meat continues to rise in temperature as the roast rests (about 10º). This means that you will take it out when it is about 10º below your desired doneness based on this chart.
The Final Temperature (after resting) for Medium Done ham is: 150º F
– This means you take it out at around 140º F
– After letting it rest for about 30 minutes, it will reach 150º F

The BEST way to check for doneness is to use an instant-readthermometer. This will ensure that it is cooked perfectly, no matter the size of your fresh ham roast.

Pan Gravy

If you wish to make pan gravy, degrease the pan juices, thicken with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of flour and add a bit of stock.

Variations

  • Spices – if you want to add more traditional American flavors to this fresh ham roast, try adding cloves, to the spice rub.
  • Sweet – you can add more brown sugar to make it sweeter or even a bit of maple syrup to make it a maple spice glaze. Alternatively, you can use honey to make a honey glaze. Even a little soy sauce to the honey glaze would add a nice touch. I love this fresh ham more savory than sweet, but you can customize it as you please.
  • Cooking Liquid – for the cooking liquid you can use beer, cider, stock, or all water.

Storage

If you have leftovers store the sliced ham in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Enjoy the leftover ham in sandwiches with our focaccia bread, or make Baked Ham and Cheese Pasta (with White Sauce).

  • Author: Elena
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: about 3 hours (depending on size of roast)
  • Category: Savory
  • Method: Italian
  • Cuisine: Italian

Related

The Best Fresh Ham Roast Recipe (Easy) (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between a ham and a ham roast? ›

Ham roast, on the other hand, is ham that is not cured. This cut is made from the meat on the middle part of the shank bone extending to the hip bone on the hind leg, and is also sometimes called a shank roast. While it may not be the prettiest cut of meat, it's great for roasting.

How long to cook raw ham per pound? ›

Bake uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 160° (18–20 minutes per pound for a 10–15-lb. ham; 20 minutes per pound for a 5–7-lb. ham; or 35 minutes per pound for a 3–4-lb. shank or butt portion).

What makes ham taste better? ›

Peach preserves, hot pepper jelly, and maple syrup work as sweet bases for glazes that add sheen as well as distinct flavor. Tasty additions such as aromatics, herbs, and spices switch up a traditional ham and make it truly memorable.

Is a fresh ham the same as a pork roast? ›

You start demystifying the process of getting a fresh ham at the butcher. One main kitchen-Zen fact to remember: You're essentially buying a pork roast. It's not “red” from the nitrates, it's pink-beige, the way you like to see your pork roasts, loins, and chops.

What is the best cut of ham to roast? ›

Shank: This portion comes from the lower half of the leg and is the most common cut used for baked ham. Butt: Also known as ham sirloin, this section comes from the upper region of the leg and is the most tender and flavorful cut of ham.

Is ham roast already cooked? ›

The answer, in short, is if it is cured, smoked or baked, ham is considered “pre-cooked,” and would not technically need to be cooked. This includes the ham that is purchased at the deli. In fact, most ham that is sold to consumers is already cured, smoked or baked.

Do you need to add water when cooking a ham? ›

Water-Cooking

Add water to keep ham covered. Take ham from the pan and while warm, remove the skin and fat as desired. If a sweet coating is desired, sprinkle the fat side with brown sugar and bread crumbs and bake in a 400 degree oven until brown (approximately 15 minutes).

Do you cook a ham at 325 or 350? ›

Heat oven to 325ºF. Remove all packaging materials and place ham on its side, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan; cover loosely with aluminum foil. Heat approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound until heated through. Remove ham from oven and let stand, covered, 20 minutes before serving.

How To cook a ham from the butcher? ›

Place the ham cut side down in the pan, The general rule of thumb for heating smoked ham is 10-15 minutes per pound in a 350 degree F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140 degrees. (A meat thermometer is a helpful tool if you don't have one already!)

What is the tastiest ham in the world? ›

Joselito | Declared the best ham in the world | Iberian acorn-fed ham. SINCE 1868 With more than 150 years of experience, Joselito holds the secrets of an ancestral tradition.

What's the difference between a ham and a fresh ham? ›

Ham is the cured leg of pork. Fresh ham is an uncured leg of pork. Fresh ham will bear the term "fresh" as part of the product name and is an indication that the product is not cured. Hams are either ready-to-eat or not.

What type of ham has the best flavor? ›

Buy bone-in ham. Yes, the bone is a little more work to cut around, but the meat is more flavorful and the hambone can be used to flavor soups and stews. Check the label. City hams can be artificially plumped up with water or solutions, but this dilutes the flavor, so look for one with no added water or juices.

What is an uncooked ham called? ›

It is called 'fresh ham' in the US but will not find it readily. You can ask for it and have it brought in for you. If you find a good German butcher you may find it more easily but most other butchers will actually need some advance notice - at least where I live on the east coast.

What cut of meat is a fresh ham? ›

The term ham refers to the cured leg of pork. A fresh ham would be an uncured leg of pork. The fresh ham will have the term “fresh” in the title of the product. The term fresh means that the product has not been cured in any process.

Is ham better for you than roast beef? ›

So while the ham might look like the healthiest option, beef is better if you choose a lean cut. Spiral hams are cured, which means they contain nitrates and nitrites, which, when they interact with protein, create compounds called nitrosamines—which may cause cancer.

What are the two types of hams? ›

Most hams you'll find made in the United States are city hams. They are wet-cured and made by soaking the meat in a saltwater solution or injecting them with a brine. You may also see country ham, which is dry rubbed and hung to dry like prosciutto. There are also fresh hams, which are uncured.

Is roast ham good for you? ›

It's rich in protein and several beneficial nutrients. However, regularly eating processed meats like ham may increase your risk of certain cancers. Thus, it's best to limit your intake and stick to fresh, less processed types of ham as part of a balanced diet.

Can you eat roasted ham? ›

A succulent roasted ham (also known as a baked ham) is an outstanding centrepiece on any holiday table. And since most hams are cooked and ready to eat, it's one of easiest roasts around.

Which ham is more moist? ›

Bone-In Ham. Another distinction you'll see is between boneless and bone-in hams. A bone-in ham tends to be moist and have a nice, rich flavor that comes from the bone, but carving it can be a bit challenging since you have to work around the bone.

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