FRENCH HAM BAKE



FRENCH HAM BAKE 

(Jambon au Four à la Française)

Why This French Ham Bake Is Special

Unlike sweet American baked hams, a French ham bake focuses on elegance and balance. The flavors are subtle—herbs, wine, Dijon mustard, and gentle aromatics—allowing the quality of the ham to shine. This dish is classic in French family kitchens, especially for Sunday lunches and festive meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 fully cooked French-style ham or bone-in ham (8–10 lb)

  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • ¼ cup dry white wine

  • ¼ cup crème fraîche (or heavy cream)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • No added salt (ham is naturally seasoned)

Preparation

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

  2. Place ham on a rack inside a roasting pan.

  3. Add white wine and bay leaf to the bottom of the pan to create gentle steam.

Dijon Herb Coating

In a bowl, combine:

  • Dijon mustard

  • Crème fraîche

  • Butter

  • Thyme

  • Garlic

  • Black pepper

Mix until smooth and aromatic.

Baking Instructions

  1. Spread the Dijon mixture evenly over the ham.

  2. Cover loosely with foil.

  3. Bake 15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with pan juices.

  4. Remove foil during the last 20–30 minutes to lightly brown the surface.

Internal temperature:

  • Heat to 140°F (60°C).

Rest & Slice

  • Rest the ham 15–20 minutes before slicing.

  • Slice thinly, following the grain for tenderness.

Classic French Serving Suggestions

Chef’s Notes (Authentic French Touch)

  • Avoid sugar or honey—French ham bakes are savory.

  • A splash of cognac may replace wine for festive versions.

  • Leftovers are exceptional in croque-monsieur, quiche, or omelets.

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate up to 5 days

  • Serve cold with mustard and cornichons

  • Excellent for sandwiches and salads

Variations for Your Blog

OTHER RECIPES


This baked ham with spiced apples and pears recipe is the essence of Christmas and holiday food. It is substantial enough for frosty nights and made with maple syrup and orchard fruits.

The recipe fills the house with an irresistible aroma as it bakes and browns. This maple-baked ham is the full holiday experience in one dish: sweet, smoky, salty, and spicy flavors blend to make an intoxicating and unforgettable winter meal.

Serve the ham on the Christmas or Thanksgiving table and expect guests to be wowed because they will be and you will be so proud. The ham can be served as a main meal, or as a sandwich, or on the buffet table for guests to help themselves. 

France was not always renowned for baking hams at Christmas, blond (boiled) ham is more common, but it seems the British and American custom has also started to take hold and not to be dismissed. 

The baked is lovely on a lunch buffet and can also make a substantial dinner. Any leftover ham is also delicious sliced and popped into a baguette as in the Jambon Beurre famous French sandwich. You may want to not put the fruit on in this case. 




Baked Ham Recipe Ingredients
  • 1 lb. baked ham, thinly sliced
  • 6-7 med. potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 c. whipping cream
  • 3/4 c. sour cream
  • 2 rounded tbsp. Dijon mustard
  • 6 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, grated (1 1/2 c.)
Baked Ham Recipe Instructions : 

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 
Starting and ending with potatoes, layer with ham in a 2 quart baking dish. 
Combine creams and mustard. Pour over layers. 
Bake 1 hour and 20 minutes. 
Then cover with cheese and bake an additional 10 minutes or until cheese melts. 
Makes 6 servings. Cool. Enjoy the FRENCH HAM BAKE recipes !!!

FRENCH HAM BAKE VIDEO :




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