Cooking a spiral ham can be a straightforward and delicious process, especially when you follow the right guidelines. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a perfectly cooked and juicy spiral ham.
Preparing the Ham
Before you start cooking, ensure your spiral ham is a pre-cooked, pre-sliced variety. This type of ham is designed to be reheated rather than cooked from raw.
Oven Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to either 275°F (135°C) or 325°F (165°C), depending on your preference for cooking time and temperature.
For a lower and slower approach, use 275°F. This method helps keep the ham moist and is recommended for larger hams[1][5].
For a slightly faster method, use 325°F. This temperature is also effective and can reduce the overall cooking time[2][4].
Step 2: Place the Ham in the Oven
Position the spiral ham in a large casserole dish or roasting pan, cut side down. This helps the ham stay juicy as it cooks[2][4].
Step 3: Cover with Foil
Wrap the ham lightly with aluminum foil to retain the juices and prevent drying out. You can occasionally open the foil to baste the ham with the accumulated juices[1][4].
Step 4: Apply Glaze (Optional)
If you’re using a glaze, apply it to the ham during the last 10-20 minutes of cooking. You can brush the glaze over the ham and try to get it between the slices for added flavor[1][4][5].
Step 5: Cooking Time
The cooking time varies based on the weight of the ham:
For 275°F, cook for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound, plus an additional 10 minutes if glazing[1][5].
For 325°F, cook for about 10-15 minutes per pound[2][4].
For example, a 10-pound spiral ham would take:
At 275°F: 2 hours (12-15 minutes per pound) + 10 minutes for glazing = 2 hours 10 minutes[1][5].
At 325°F: 1 hour 30 minutes (10-15 minutes per pound)[2][4].
Step 6: Check Internal Temperature
Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F. This is crucial for food safety and to ensure the ham is heated through evenly[1][2][4].
Crockpot Method
If you prefer to use a crockpot, here’s how you can cook your spiral ham:
Step 1: Place the Ham in the Crockpot
Position the spiral ham in the crockpot with the large, flat side down. Ensure the ham fits comfortably in the crockpot; if not, you can cover the top tightly with foil and place the lid on top[1][4].
Step 2: Add Liquid
Add a small amount of liquid, such as apple juice or water, to the crockpot to keep the ham moist. About ½ cup is sufficient[4].
Step 3: Apply Glaze (Optional)
Brush the ham with your preferred glaze before covering the crockpot[4].
Step 4: Cook on Low
Cook the spiral ham on the low setting of your crockpot. The cooking time is approximately 18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. For a 10-pound ham, this would be around 3 hours[4].
Tips for Keeping the Ham Moist
Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the ham at a lower temperature helps prevent it from drying out[1].
Basting: Occasionally baste the ham with the accumulated juices to keep it moist[1][4].
Resting: After cooking, let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ham more tender and juicy[2].
Most Important Facts About Cooking Spiral Ham
Pre-cooked Ham: Spiral hams are usually pre-cooked, so you are reheating rather than cooking from raw.
Oven Temperature: You can cook at either 275°F or 325°F, with the lower temperature providing a slower and more moist result.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes per pound, with an additional 10 minutes if glazing.
At 275°F: 12-15 minutes per pound + 10 minutes for glazing.
At 325°F: 10-15 minutes per pound.
Internal Temperature: Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of at least 140°F for food safety.
Covering with Foil: Wrap the ham in foil to retain juices and prevent drying out.
Basting and Resting: Baste the ham occasionally and let it rest for 15 minutes after cooking to keep it moist and tender.
Crockpot Option: Cook in a crockpot on low for about 18 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve a perfectly cooked and deliciously moist spiral ham for any occasion.
