To cook a pre-cooked ham, you mainly need to reheat it gently to avoid drying it out, and optionally add a glaze for flavor. Here is a reliable method based on multiple expert sources:
How to Cook a Pre-Cooked Ham
- Preheat your oven to around 275°F to 325°F depending on your recipe preference.
- Place the ham in a roasting pan with the flat cut side down. Add a little water (about 1/2 inch deep) to the pan to keep the ham moist.
- Cover the ham tightly with foil to trap moisture and prevent drying.
- Bake the ham for about 12-15 minutes per pound at 275°F, or 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F, until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Baste occasionally with ham juices to keep it moist.
- If using a glaze , prepare it while the ham is baking. Common glazes include mixtures of brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, mustard, orange juice, and spices.
- About 30 minutes before the ham is done, remove the foil, increase oven temperature to 400-425°F , and brush the ham generously with glaze.
- Return the ham to the oven uncovered for 10-15 minutes to set the glaze. You can glaze and bake it twice for a thicker coating.
- Let the ham rest for 10-20 minutes covered loosely with foil before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- Keep the ham covered and baste with its own juices during baking to maintain moisture.
- Avoid overcooking as pre-cooked ham can dry out quickly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (140°F is safe and ideal for reheated pre-cooked ham).
This method works for bone-in spiral hams, whole boneless hams, and smaller fully cooked hams
