How Cook Ham In Oven
How Cook Ham In Oven - If you're looking for a delicious and easy main dish for your next big family meal or holiday gathering, a juicy, flavorful ham could be just the ticket. However, before you get to the eating part, you'll need to figure out how to cook that ham to perfection. Luckily, with these helpful tips, you'll be on your way to serving up a mouth-watering centerpiece that will have all your guests asking for seconds.
Cooking Time for Ham in Oven
The Table Below Lists Ham Cooking Times In
One of the most important things to keep in mind when cooking your ham is how long it needs to stay in the oven. Different types of hams, and different sizes or weights, may require different cooking temperatures and times, so it's important to follow a trusted recipe or table and keep an eye on your dish as it cooks. The table below provides a good starting point for determining how long to cook your ham in the oven, but be sure to also check for doneness using a meat thermometer before serving.
| Type of Ham | Cooking Time and Temperature |
|---|---|
| Fully cooked, bone-in ham (not spiral cut) | 325°F, 10-14 minutes per pound |
| Fully cooked, boneless ham | 325°F, 8-10 minutes per pound |
| Spiral cut, fully cooked ham | 325°F, 10-14 minutes per pound |
| Fresh, (uncooked), whole ham | 325°F, 20-30 minutes per pound |
How to Cook Ham in a Convection Oven
If you have a convection oven, you may be wondering if there are any special considerations you should keep in mind when cooking your ham. The good news is that you can use a convection oven to cook your ham just like any other oven, and you may even see some benefits such as a more evenly browned exterior and shorter cooking time. However, since convection ovens circulate air differently than traditional ovens, you'll want to make sure to follow these tips:
- Reduce the cooking temperature by 25°F
- Check the ham 5-10 minutes earlier than the recommended cooking time
- Use a shallow roasting pan and avoid covering the ham with foil to allow for proper air circulation
- Allow the ham to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute
How to Cook a Ham in the Oven
Now that you have a general idea of how long to cook your ham and what to keep in mind if using a convection oven, let's dive into the specifics of how to actually cook your ham in the oven. Here's an easy step-by-step guide:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove any packaging from your ham and place it on a shallow roasting pan (cut-side down if applicable).
- If desired, score the surface of the ham with a diamond pattern using a sharp knife. This can help the ham cook more evenly and make a crispy, caramelized crust.
- If desired, brush the ham with a glaze or rub. You can use anything from a simple honey and mustard glaze to a savory herbal blend, depending on your tastes.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham (not touching the bone, if applicable) and place the pan in the oven.
- Cook the ham according to the guidelines in the chart above, until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Depending on the size and type of ham, this can take anywhere from a few hours to several.
- Remove the ham from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
Tips and Ideas for Serving Ham
Now that your ham is cooked to perfection, it's time to dig in! Here are some tips and ideas for serving and enjoying your delicious meal:
- Make a simple pan sauce by deglazing the roasting pan with white wine, broth, or fruit juice, and simmering until reduced.
- Pair your ham with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls, or mix it up with fresh salads, roasted veggies, or sweet cornbread.
- Use leftover ham in sandwiches, omelets, quiches, soups, stews, and casseroles. It's a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and protein to a variety of dishes.
- Experiment with different glazes and rubs to find your favorite flavor combinations. Some popular options include honey mustard, maple and brown sugar, pineapple and clove, and Dijon herb.
Whether you're cooking a ham for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a family gathering, following these tips and guidelines will help ensure that your main dish turns out perfectly juicy, flavorful, and impressive. Need more inspiration? Check out some of our many ham-related recipes for starters, entrees, and sides, and get ready to wow your taste buds and guests alike!
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