How To Cook A Spiral Ham In The Oven

How To Cook A Spiral Ham In The Oven

Are you ready to satisfy your taste buds with a succulent, flavorful spiral ham? Cooking a spiral ham in the oven is not only simple but also a delicious way to impress your family and friends. The spiral-cut design allows for even heat distribution while retaining the ham’s juicy tenderness.

Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly cooked spiral ham that will have everyone asking for seconds:

1. Preparation is key. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure you have a roasting pan with a rack to elevate the ham and allow for even cooking.
2. Unwrap the spiral ham and place it on the rack in the roasting pan. If the ham came with a glaze packet, set it aside for later use. If not, don’t worry – we’ll show you how to make a delicious glaze from scratch.
3. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during the cooking process.
4. Calculate the cooking time. As a general guideline, allow for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound of ham. For a more accurate result, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Place the roasting pan with the covered ham in the preheated oven.
6. While the spiral ham is cooking, prepare the glaze if you haven’t already. You can make a simple yet delightful glaze by combining ingredients like brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices such as cloves or cinnamon.
7. About 20-30 minutes before the estimated cooking time is complete, remove the ham from the oven and discard the foil covering. Baste the entire ham with the glaze, making sure to coat every delicious spiral and crevice.
8. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and continue cooking until the glaze has caramelized slightly, forming a beautiful golden crust.
9. Once the internal temperature of the ham reaches 145°F (63°C) and the glaze is perfectly caramelized, remove the ham from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving to let the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
10. Carve and serve your spiral ham with pride, knowing you have created a masterpiece in your own kitchen. The visually appealing spiral slices will make each bite a delight for your guests.

Now that you know how to cook a spiral ham in the oven, you can confidently plan a mouthwatering meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a Sunday family dinner, or a special event, a perfectly cooked spiral ham will always steal the show with its tantalizing aroma and irresistible flavor.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different glazes and spices to customize your spiral ham to your taste. Happy cooking!