To heat a fully cooked ham properly, follow these general steps:
- Preparation
- Remove all packaging materials, including any plastic or clear buttons on the bone.
- Place the ham fat side up on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Add about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water to the pan to keep the ham moist.
- Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture during heating
- Heating Temperature and Time
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Heat the ham approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound until it is heated through. For spiral-sliced hams, heat about 15 minutes per pound at 300°F, wrapped tightly in foil
* The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F if fully cooked, or 145°F if labeled "cook before eating"
- Glazing (Optional)
- If you want to glaze your ham, remove it from the oven about 30 minutes before the end of the heating time.
- Apply your favorite glaze evenly over the surface.
- Return the ham to the oven uncovered and bake at a higher temperature (around 425°F) for 10 to 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze, brushing the glaze on again halfway through if desired
- Resting
- After heating, let the ham rest covered for 10 to 20 minutes before carving. This helps retain juices and makes carving easier
Additional Tips
- For lean half hams, add 1/4 cup water to the pan and heat at 325°F for about 20 to 30 minutes per pound
- You can also reheat ham in a slow cooker on low with some liquid (ginger ale, cola, stock, or water) for 8 to 10 hours until it reaches the proper internal temperature
- Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the ham
This method ensures your ham stays moist, flavorful, and ready to serve.