Ham is a classic centerpiece for holiday meals. Delicious and fairly straightforward to make, the key is in heating your ham so it stays juicy and delicious. Whether you’re preparing a succulent bone-in ham for its rich flavor or a boneless ham for its easy slicing, here’s The Butcher Shop’s guide to heating your holiday ham to perfection.
Steps to Heat Your Holiday Ham
Bone-In Ham
Bone-in ham is prized for its flavor, as the bone adds richness to the meat. For a tender, juicy holiday ham:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the Ham
Place your TBS ham cut-side down in a roasting pan. Add about 1/2 cup of water, apple juice, or broth to the pan to create steam and keep the ham moist.
3. Cover It
Tightly cover the ham with aluminum foil or a lid.
4. Heat
Bake for 10-12 minutes per pound. For example, a 10-pound ham will take approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours.
5. Glaze
If you’re applying a glaze, do so in the last 20-30 minutes of heating. Remove the foil, brush the glaze over the ham, and return it uncovered to the oven.
6. Check Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the ham (not touching the bone) reaches 140°F for a fully cooked ham.
Boneless Ham
Boneless ham is convenient for slicing and serving, making it a great choice for large gatherings. To heat it properly:
1. Preheat the Oven
Like bone-in ham, set your oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the Ham
Place your TBS ham flat-side down in a roasting pan. Add water, broth, or apple juice to the pan to moisten it.
3. Cover It
Use aluminum foil or a roasting pan lid to seal in the heat.
4. Heat
Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, depending on the size of the ham. For example, a 5-pound ham will take approximately 1 to 1.25 hours.
5. Glaze
If using a glaze, apply it during the final 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil, brush the glaze over the ham, and return it uncovered to the oven.
6. Check Temperature
Verify that the internal temperature reaches 140°F for a pre-cooked ham.
Quick Tips for Both Types of Ham
- Rest the Ham: After removing the ham from the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, making the meat more flavorful.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures accuracy and prevents overcooking, which can dry out the ham.
- Experiment with Glazes: A brown sugar-mustard glaze, honey-maple glaze, or pineapple-clove glaze can elevate your ham’s flavor.
Pre-order Your Holiday Meal from The Butcher Shop
Whether you opt for the classic, flavorful bone-in or the convenience of boneless, a perfectly heated ham makes for a memorable meal. It’s even more memorable when that ham comes from The Butcher Shop. All our meats are locally sourced right here in Southern Oregon, so you’ll always find the highest-quality, most flavorful cuts for your family.
We’re taking holiday pre-orders through December 18th or while supplies last, so don’t wait – get your holiday ham order in today! TBS also carries fresh-baked loaves of bread, fresh produce, local wines and beers, and everything you need to complete your holiday meal. Stop by today or give us a call to pre-order your ingredients.