Baked ham is often served alongside or instead of turkey at Thanksgiving.
Ham is a practical holiday centerpiece because it is flavorful, feeds a crowd, and can be served hot, warm, or chilled. A cured ham is commonly baked with a sweet glaze—such as brown sugar, honey, or maple—while the meat warms and the exterior caramelizes. Some families serve slices with turkey; others make ham the main meat.
The tradition reflects the different foodways and farm economies that shaped Thanksgiving menus. Pork was historically important in many American regions, and preserved ham could be available even when a fresh turkey was not. Modern celebrations also use ham to accommodate guests who prefer pork or want a second entrée.
Ham does not replace turkey in every household, and preparations vary from fully cooked spiral-sliced hams to country hams requiring different handling. The key point is that ham is a recognized Thanksgiving alternative or companion, not that it is the only other traditional meat.