How To Cook Bone In Spiral Ham?

A bone-in spiral ham, with its succulent layers and rich flavor, is often the centerpiece of festive feasts and special family gatherings. While it may seem daunting to some, cooking this cut of meat to perfection is an art that, once mastered, promises a meal that’s both visually stunning and delectably satisfying.

This article gives a step-by-step guide on how to cook a bone-in spiral ham, ensuring that its natural flavors are enhanced and celebrated in every bite.

A bone-in spiral ham is a precooked and pre-sliced ham that’s a staple at many holiday gatherings. Its natural juiciness and smoky flavor, combined with a glaze of your choice, make it a crowd-pleaser. This recipe will guide you on how to heat it properly to retain its moisture and enhance its flavor.

Time Required

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours (depending on size)
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes-2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 bone-in spiral ham (7-10 lbs)
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup pineapple juice (or orange juice)
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325° Fahrenheit (165° Celsius).
Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Wrap it securely in aluminum foil.
In a preheated oven, bake the ham for approximately 10 to 12 minutes per pound.
During the baking of the ham, prepare the glaze: Combine brown sugar, honey, pineapple juice, Dijon mustard and minced cloves in a saucepan. Simmer the mixture over medium heat till the time it becomes slightly thicker.
Put out the ham from the oven 20 minutes before the end of the baking time and generously brush it with the glaze.
Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, & bake until the glaze has caramelized and the ham has reached the desired temperature.
Remove from oven & then allow to rest for 10 to 15 minutes prior to serving.

Recipe Tips

Avoid Overcooking: Since the ham is already cooked, you’re essentially reheating it. Overcooking can dry it out.
Baste Frequently: Basting the ham with its juices helps keep it moist.
Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different glaze ingredients like maple syrup, bourbon, or apple cider.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The temperature inside should reach 140°F (60°C) when it’s ready.
Let it Rest: Allowing the ham to rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices.
No Searing Needed: Unlike other meats, you don’t need to sear a spiral ham.
Keep it Covered: Covering the ham with foil for the majority of the cooking time ensures it doesn’t dry out.

Storage Tips

Store leftover ham in an airtight box in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the ham in portion-sized pieces in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, and dinner rolls.
Use leftovers to make ham sandwiches, omelets, or ham and bean soup.
Pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a sweet contrast.
A mustard or horseradish sauce can complement the smoky flavor of the ham.

How Long Does It Take To Heat A Bone-in Spiral Ham?

To heat a bone-in spiral ham, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham in a roasting pan, then cover it with aluminum foil, & then bake for about 10-12 minutes per pound. Since spiral hams are precooked, you’re essentially reheating it.

For example, a 10-pound ham would take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check out the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), and let it rest before slicing and serving.

Is Bone-In Hams Precooked?

Yes, bone-in hams are typically precooked or partially cooked during processing. This means they have already been cooked to a safe internal temperature before they are sold. When you purchase a bone-in ham, it is generally ready to eat without further cooking.

However, you can still choose to heat it to your desired temperature for serving, and doing so can increase the flavor & texture of the ham.

How Many Minutes Do You Cook A Bone-in Ham?

To cook a bone-in ham, you can estimate about 10-15 minutes of cooking time per pound in a preheated oven at temperature of 325°F (163°C). This is a general guideline, so for a 10-pound bone-in ham, you would cook it for approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

It’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Always follow the specific cooking instructions provided with your ham for the most accurate timing.

Bottom Line

Cooking a bone-in spiral ham is about understanding the balance between temperature, timing, and seasoning. By following this detailed guide, you’ll achieve a ham that’s beautifully caramelized on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within.

Whether you’re glazing it with a sweet concoction or simply letting its natural flavors shine, a perfectly cooked spiral ham stands as a testament to the joys of traditional cooking.

Let this guide be your companion in crafting a dish that’s bound to be the star of any dining occasion.

Also Read: How To Cook Taco Meat In A Crockpot?

How To Cook Bone In Spiral Ham?