Baking a cooked ham is a delightful way to elevate any meal, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or an everyday family dinner. The beautiful golden crust, along with the sweet and savory flavors, makes baked ham a highlight on any dining table. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the steps of baking cooked ham in the oven, share tips for achieving the perfect glaze, and provide you with serving ideas that will impress your guests.
Preparing Your Cooked Ham
Before diving into the baking process, it is essential to prepare your cooked ham properly. Whether you’ve purchased a spiral-cut ham or a whole ham, they both have similar preparation needs.
Choosing the Right Ham
When deciding on a ham, you first need to consider the type. Cooked hams are usually sold as city hams or country hams. Here is an overview of each to help you decide:
- City Ham: These are wet-cured hams typically sold fully cooked. They are moist and tender, making them a popular choice for baking.
- Country Ham: Dry-cured and often saltier, country hams require soaking to remove excess salt before cooking. They can be a delicious option for those who prefer a richer flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
While the primary focus is the ham, you will want the right ingredients for a delicious glaze:
- Your Cooked Ham: Determine the size based on the number of servings needed (typically plan for ½ pound per person).
- Glaze Ingredients: Common ingredients include brown sugar, honey, mustard, apple juice, or pineapple juice.
Tools and Equipment
Before you start, ensure you have the necessary tools on hand to make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Roasting pan or baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife (if using a whole ham)
- Mixing bowl for glaze
The Baking Process
Baking a cooked ham is straightforward, but to achieve the ultimate flavor and tenderness, follow these steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). This moderate temperature will help ensure even cooking and keep the ham moist.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
If you have a whole ham, you may need to score it. Scoring involves making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern across the surface. This not only enhances the appearance but also allows the glaze to penetrate better.
For spiral-cut ham, ensure the slices are slightly separated, which promotes even glazing.
Step 3: Place Ham in Roasting Pan
Put the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down if it’s a half ham. This positioning helps retain moisture throughout the baking process. If using a whole ham, position it so the cut side is facing down.
Step 4: Create the Glaze
Mix your glaze ingredients in a bowl. A classic glaze might include:
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 cup of apple juice or pineapple juice
Whisk these together until smooth, adjusting to taste.
Step 5: Bake the Ham
Cover the ham with aluminum foil to keep it moist and place it in the preheated oven. The baking time generally follows the rule of about 10 to 12 minutes per pound when reheating. Here’s a rough guideline based on weight:
| Weight of Ham | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| 6 to 8 pounds | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| 8 to 10 pounds | 2 to 2.5 hours |
| 10 to 12 pounds | 2.5 to 3 hours |
Use the meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham.
Step 6: Glaze the Ham
Once the ham is about 30 minutes from being done, remove it from the oven and carefully peel back the aluminum foil. Brush on the glaze generously, allowing it to caramelize as the ham finishes baking. Be sure to baste it a couple of times for enhanced flavor and color.
Step 7: Final Basting
In the final 15 minutes, increase your oven temperature to 400°F (204°C) for a beautiful caramelized crust. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. If you notice spots getting too dark, you can loosely cover those areas with foil.
Step 8: Rest Before Slicing
Once your ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your masterpiece is baked to perfection, it’s time to consider how you’ll serve it. Here are some ideas:
Classic Pairings
Cooked ham pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Creamy macaroni and cheese
Serving the Leftovers
Leftover ham can be a delightful addition to various dishes, such as:
- Ham and cheese sandwiches
- Breakfast hash with eggs
- Ham salad or quiche
Tips for Perfectly Baked Ham
To ensure your baked ham is not only delicious but also visually appealing, consider these important tips:
Choosing the Right Glaze
The glaze makes a significant impact on the final flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to explore variations such as maple syrup, bourbon, or even fruit preserves for something unique.
Don’t Skip the Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. Avoid the practice of cutting into the ham to check if it’s done, as it will let the juices escape.
Experiment with Seasonings
Enhance your glaze with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Storing Your Baked Ham
If you are fortunate enough to have leftovers from your baked ham, proper storage is essential.
Refrigeration
Wrap leftover ham tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3 to 5 days when stored properly.
Freezing for Later Enjoyment
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Slice the ham and store it in freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Conclusion
Baking a cooked ham in the oven is a straightforward process that can result in a delicious, succulent centerpiece for any meal. With the right preparation, ingredients, and attention to detail, you will be well on your way to delighting your guests with a beautifully baked cooked ham. Embrace the journey of preparation, baking, and serving, and enjoy the flavorful rewards that come from your efforts. Happy baking!
What type of ham is best for baking?
The ideal type of ham for baking is a fully cooked, bone-in ham. These hams are typically more flavorful and retain moisture better during the cooking process. Bone-in hams are also known for their presentation; the bone helps to hold the shape of the ham while it cooks, leading to an attractive and impressive dish for serving.
Another excellent choice is a smoked ham, which offers a rich, deep flavor that can enhance the overall taste of your meal. You can also opt for a spiral-cut ham, as it allows for easier serving and glazing, but keep in mind that these hams may cook more quickly, so monitoring the internal temperature is crucial to prevent drying out.
How do I prepare a ham for baking?
Preparing a ham for baking begins with removing it from its packaging and rinsing it under cold water to eliminate any excess brine or glaze. After rinsing, pat the ham dry with paper towels and place it on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. If you have a whole ham, score the surface in a diamond pattern, which allows the glaze to penetrate and helps create a beautiful crust.
Next, season your ham as desired before applying your glaze. A simple mixture of brown sugar, honey, and mustard works exceptionally well. Brush the glaze uniformly over the surface, ensuring that it seeps into the scored areas. This step not only enhances the flavor but also creates that irresistible caramelized exterior that is the hallmark of a perfectly baked ham.
What is the recommended cooking temperature for ham?
The recommended cooking temperature for baking ham is 325°F (163°C). At this temperature, the ham will cook evenly and thoroughly without becoming dry. Using a lower temperature than this can result in a long cooking time, while a higher temperature risks burning the exterior before the interior reaches the desired internal temperature.
An important guideline is to ensure that the internal temperature of your ham reaches at least 140°F (60°C) if it is pre-cooked. For a raw or uncooked ham, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to accurately gauge this, so make sure to check the temperature in the thickest part of the ham.
How long does it take to bake a ham?
The baking time for ham can vary based on its weight and whether it is pre-cooked or raw. A rule of thumb is to bake pre-cooked ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound. For example, an 8-pound ham would typically require around 1.5 to 2 hours to heat through properly. Be sure to check your ham periodically to ensure it is not overcooking.
If you are baking a raw ham, the cooking time will generally be longer, at about 20-25 minutes per pound. Thus, a 10-pound raw ham may take 3 to 4 hours to cook thoroughly. Always plan for some extra time to accommodate any fluctuations in oven temperature or specific ham characteristics to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Should I cover my ham while baking?
In general, covering your ham during the first part of the baking process is advisable, especially if it is a larger, bone-in variety. Use aluminum foil to cover the ham loosely, which will help retain moisture and prevent the surface from browning too quickly. This technique allows the ham to heat evenly throughout without drying out.
However, during the last 30 minutes of baking, it is beneficial to uncover the ham to allow the glaze to caramelize and create that crispy exterior. You can baste the ham periodically with juices from the pan or additional glaze during this uncovered cooking time to further enhance the flavor and appearance of the finished dish.
How can I tell when the ham is done?
The most reliable method to determine if your ham is done is by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For pre-cooked ham, the ideal temperature is 140°F (60°C), while for raw ham, it should reach 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, without touching the bone, as this will give you an accurate reading.
In addition to checking the temperature, you can examine the color and texture of the surface of the ham. A perfectly baked ham should have a beautiful, caramelized exterior and be slightly shiny from the glaze. If the meat easily pulls away from the bone when gently tugged, that is another indication that it may be ready to serve.
Can I prepare the ham in advance?
Yes, you can prepare your ham in advance, which can save time and reduce stress on the day of serving. You can season and glaze the ham a day prior to baking. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out and store it in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor as the seasoning soaks in, but it also makes your cooking process easier on the day of your gathering.
Once baked, ham can also be made ahead of time. Just ensure it is cooled down completely before wrapping it tightly and refrigerating or freezing it. You can reheat it later by covering it with foil and placing it back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This method helps preserve moisture and flavor, ensuring your ham retains its delicious qualities when served later.