How To Cook Ham In Oven That Is Precooked

Preparing a Delicious Oven-Baked Precooked Ham

Are you craving a succulent ham for your next family gathering or holiday feast? Cooking a precooked ham in the oven is a fantastic way to bring out the flavors and create a delicious centerpiece for your meal. With a few simple steps, you can have a tender and juicy ham ready to serve. Let’s dive into the process of cooking a precooked ham in the oven.

What You’ll Need:

• Precooked ham
• Oven-safe roasting pan
• Basting brush
• Foil
• Meat thermometer

Step 1: Preheating the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures the ham heats evenly without drying out. It’s important to give your oven enough time to reach the desired temperature before placing the ham inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Remove the precooked ham from its packaging and place it in a greased oven-safe roasting pan. Score the surface of the ham with shallow, diagonal cuts, creating a diamond pattern. This will not only enhance the presentation of the ham but also allow the flavors to penetrate deeper.

Step 3: Basting for Extra Flavor

To elevate the taste and ensure your ham stays moist throughout the cooking process, basting is essential. Use a basting brush to apply your choice of glaze, such as honey mustard, brown sugar, or a flavorful fruit preserve. Basting will add depth and a delightful caramelized coating to your precooked ham.

Step 4: Cooking Time

Calculate the cooking time based on the weight of the ham. As a general guideline, allow around 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound. Place the prepared ham in the preheated oven and cover it loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. This will also help in retaining the moisture and tenderness of the meat.

Step 5: Checking the Internal Temperature

When your ham is nearly done, it’s crucial to check its internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding any bone. The ham is perfectly cooked and safe to consume when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

Step 6: Resting and Serving

Once your precooked ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and carefully cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham.

Now it’s time to slice your delicious oven-baked precooked ham and serve it to your delighted guests. Whether it’s a festive occasion or a regular family dinner, this scrumptious ham will surely impress everyone around the table.

Remember, you can customize the flavors by experimenting with different glazes or additional spices like cinnamon, cloves, or even a hint of citrus. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma and the taste of a perfectly cooked precooked ham that melts in your mouth.

So, the next time you have a precooked ham on hand, try this easy and foolproof method of cooking it in the oven. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!