Cooking a precooked spiral ham might sound intimidating, but it’s actually one of the easiest and most rewarding meals you can prepare. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just a special Sunday dinner, a spiral ham is juicy, flavorful, and impressively easy to serve. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide on how to cook a precooked spiral ham perfectly every time.
What Is a Precooked Spiral Ham?
A precooked spiral ham is a fully cooked ham that has been sliced in a continuous spiral around the bone. This makes it super easy to serve because the slices naturally fall apart. Since it’s already cooked, your job is simply to warm it through and add any glaze or seasoning you like to enhance the flavor.
How Long and At What Temperature Should You Cook a Precooked Spiral Ham?
The general rule is to heat your precooked spiral ham at 325°F (163°C) for about 12-15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). This ensures the ham is warmed through without drying out.
For example:
– A 10-pound ham will take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
– Cover the ham with foil during heating to keep it moist.
– Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes if you’re applying a glaze, so it can caramelize nicely.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Your Precooked Spiral Ham
1. Prep Your Ham
– Remove all packaging and any plastic disk on the bone’s underside.
– Place the ham cut-side down in a shallow roasting pan.
– Add a little liquid (water, chicken broth, or fruit juice like orange or pineapple) to the bottom of the pan to keep the ham moist.
2. Cover and Heat
– Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil or a roasting pan lid.
– Heat in a preheated oven at 325°F.
– Warm for about 12-15 minutes per pound, checking that the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
3. Add Your Glaze (Optional but Recommended)
– About 20 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil and brush on your favorite glaze.
– Return the ham to the oven uncovered so the glaze can caramelize and create a delicious crust.
4. Rest Before Serving
– Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for 15-20 minutes.
– This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Easy and Delicious Glaze Ideas
Glazing your spiral ham adds a beautiful sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some popular glaze recipes:
– Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze: Mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a splash of orange or pineapple juice. Brush on the ham in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
– Honey and Pineapple Glaze: Combine honey, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon, garlic powder, and paprika for a tropical twist.
– Apricot-Bourbon Glaze: Blend apricot jam, bourbon, brown sugar, and mustard for a rich, caramelized finish with a hint of smokiness.
Tips to Keep Your Spiral Ham Moist and Flavorful
– Don’t overcook: Since the ham is already cooked, you’re only reheating it. Overcooking will dry it out.
– Use a meat thermometer: Check that the internal temperature hits 140°F to ensure it’s warmed through but not overdone.
– Add liquid to the pan: This creates steam and keeps the ham juicy.
– Cover with foil: Keeps moisture in during cooking, removing it only for glazing.
How to Serve and Store Leftover Spiral Ham
Spiral ham is incredibly versatile:
– Serve warm with your favorite sides like scalloped potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh rolls.
– Use leftovers in sandwiches, soups, or breakfast dishes like ham and eggs or ham fried rice.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Cooking a precooked spiral ham is simple, quick, and yields a mouthwatering centerpiece for any meal. Follow these tips and enjoy a juicy, flavorful ham that will impress your family and friends without the stress!
Enjoy your perfectly cooked spiral ham!