There’s something wonderfully comforting about the sweet aroma of maple syrup mingling with savory ham roasting in the oven—like a warm hug on a plate. When I first tried this Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots recipe, it completely changed my idea of easy, impressive home cooking. The glaze strikes the perfect balance of rich, sticky sweetness and subtle spice, while the carrots roast to tender, caramelized perfection alongside the ham. Whether you’re aiming to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish delivers irresistible flavor with minimal fuss. Let me walk you through how simple it is to create a meal that tastes like it took all day, but really only takes about an hour. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!

Why choose Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal prep and basic skills, making it perfect for any home cook. Bold, balanced flavor: The sweet maple glaze beautifully enhances the savory ham and earthy carrots. Time-saving delight: Ready in about an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: The tender ham and caramelized carrots appeal to all ages and tastes. Versatility bonus: Enjoy it as a comforting family dinner or an impressive dish for special occasions.

Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots Ingredients

For the Ham and Glaze

Bone-in ham – Choose a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham for even glazing and easy slicing.
Pure maple syrup – This is the star ingredient that gives the Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots their signature sweet, sticky glaze.
Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang to balance the maple syrup’s sweetness perfectly.
Apple cider vinegar – Helps cut through the richness and adds a gentle brightness to the glaze.
Ground cloves – Use sparingly for a warm, aromatic hint that complements the ham.

For the Carrots

Carrots – Peel and cut into uniform sticks to ensure even roasting and caramelization alongside the ham.
Olive oil – Lightly coats the carrots to help them roast up tender with a slight crisp edge.
Salt and black pepper – Simple seasoning that enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Fresh thyme (optional) – Adds a fragrant herbal touch that pairs beautifully with the maple glaze.

How to Make Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots

Preheat Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a roasting pan with foil, ensuring easy cleanup and even heat distribution for perfectly roasted ham and carrots.
Arrange Arrange the spiral-cut ham flat side down in the center of the pan, leaving room around it for the carrots to roast evenly.
For the Glaze: Combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of ground cloves in a bowl, whisking until smooth and glossy, about 30 seconds.
Brush Generously brush half of the glaze over the ham, using a pastry brush to work it into each crevice and spiral for a sticky, flavorful crust.
Bake Bake the ham for 30 minutes, then brush with remaining glaze and continue roasting an additional 15 minutes until edges are caramelized and ham is warmed through.
For the Carrots: While the ham bakes, peel and slice carrots into uniform sticks, ensuring even cooking and caramelization, then toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme if using.
Roast Scatter carrots around the ham during the last 25 minutes of baking, roasting until tender with golden-brown edges and a hint of crisp.
Rest Remove ham and carrots from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 10 minutes to redistribute juices and develop peak flavor.

Optional: Drizzle extra glaze over sliced ham for a glossy finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots

Choose the Right Ham: Select a pre-cooked, spiral-cut ham for easiest glazing and tender slices without overcooking.
Even Carrot Cuts: Slice carrots uniformly to ensure they roast evenly and caramelize perfectly alongside the ham.
Don’t Skip Resting: Letting the ham rest after roasting keeps it juicy and allows flavors to settle beautifully.
Glaze Generously: Apply the maple glaze multiple times during baking for that signature sticky, flavorful crust.
Watch the Oven: Keep an eye to avoid burning the glaze since maple syrup caramelizes quickly under high heat.
Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh thyme elevates the flavor, complementing the sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the glaze (combining the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves) up to 3 days in advance. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep the flavors bright and fresh. Additionally, wash, peel, and cut the carrots into uniform sticks up to 24 hours ahead; store them in water in the fridge to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the glaze on the ham, place it in the oven, and roast the carrots alongside for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy your time saved during busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots?

The warmth of sweet maple and savory ham creates an unforgettable meal experience that deserves delightful companions.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the tender ham, making each bite comforting and hearty.
Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness offers an intriguing imbalance to the rich glaze, balancing sweet and savory perfectly. Plus, they add vibrant color to your plate.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted, the asparagus adds a fresh, crispy touch that complements the other dishes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart, fruity sauce brightens your palate and adds an elegant element to the succulent ham, enhancing its sweetness and providing a delightful contrast.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls serve as a perfect vehicle for soaking up any remaining glaze, creating a satisfying combination that feels like a warm embrace.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly drink pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the ham, providing a refreshing balance and elevating the entire meal experience with a festive touch.

Each of these side dishes can bring a vibrant element to your table, ensuring your Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots shine as the star of your meal.

Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful dish; your personal touch will make it even more special!

Honey Alternative: Substitute maple syrup with honey for a different yet equally sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with ham.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness of the maple.
Herb Accent: Sprinkle fresh rosemary instead of thyme for a bold, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Vegetable Medley: Include other root vegetables, like potatoes and parsnips, for added texture and flavor; they roast beautifully alongside the ham.
Mustard Variation: Use whole grain mustard instead of Dijon for a more robust flavor and a pleasant texture in the glaze.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate orange juice or zest in the glaze for a refreshing citrusy brightness that elevates flavor complexities.
Brown Sugar Boost: Mix some brown sugar into the glaze for an extra layer of caramelized sweetness that complements the savory ham.
Reduced Sodium: Opt for a low-sodium ham and adjust salt levels in your carrots to accommodate a savory flavor while being mindful of dietary needs.

Each variation opens the door to new ways to enjoy this warm, comforting dish. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors locked in and the ham juicy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliced ham and carrots in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months; just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, keeping them covered with foil to retain moisture and flavor.

Leftover Ideas: Use any remaining glazed ham in sandwiches or salads to reduce waste while enjoying the sweet-savory flavors once again!

Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots Recipe FAQs

What kind of ham is best for Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots?
I recommend using a pre-cooked, spiral-cut bone-in ham. It allows for even glazing and makes slicing a breeze. Plus, it warms through perfectly without drying out during roasting.

How should I store leftover Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This keeps the ham juicy and the carrots tender. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Can I freeze Maple Glazed Ham and Carrots? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freeze sliced ham and carrots in separate, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap first, then place it in a bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to maintain moisture.

What if my carrots come out too soft or mushy?
If carrots roast too soft, it might be because they were cut too thin or cooked too long. Try cutting them into slightly thicker sticks next time and keep an eye on them—roast only until tender with a bit of caramelized crispness around the edges, usually about 25 minutes alongside the ham.

Are there any allergy concerns or dietary notes to consider?
This recipe contains maple syrup and mustard, both of which are generally safe but can cause reactions in rare cases. Also, ground cloves add flavor but check for any spice allergies. If feeding pets, keep in mind ham is high in salt and spices, which aren’t suitable for animals. Always consult with guests on dietary restrictions ahead of time.