Cooking a frozen ham can be a convenient option when you don’t have time to defrost it. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or simply enjoying a delicious ham dinner, it’s important to know the proper cooking time for a 9 pound frozen ham. By following a few simple steps, you can cook a flavorful and juicy ham that your family and friends will love.

Thawing the ham: Before cooking a frozen ham, it’s important to thaw it properly to ensure even cooking. To thaw a 9 pound frozen ham, it is recommended to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. This slow thawing process will help the ham retain its moisture and prevent it from becoming dry when cooked. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method to thaw the ham more quickly.

Cooking time: Once the ham is thawed, you can begin the cooking process. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the ham on a rack in a shallow roasting pan, making sure to cover it with aluminum foil. The general rule of thumb for cooking a fully cooked ham is to allow approximately 15-20 minutes per pound. Therefore, a 9 pound frozen ham would require around 2 hours and 15-30 minutes of cooking time. However, it’s always best to refer to the packaging or recipe instructions for specific cooking guidelines.

Note: It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham without touching bone or fat. Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.

How to cook a frozen 9 pound ham

When it comes to cooking a frozen 9 pound ham, there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure it is cooked thoroughly and retains its flavor. Here’s a simple guide to help you cook a delicious ham.

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1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). It’s important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature to ensure even cooking throughout the ham.

2. Remove packaging: Take the frozen ham out of its packaging and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. Discard any plastic wrapping and other packaging materials.

3. Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This will not only enhance the presentation but also help the ham cook more evenly.

4. Bake the ham: Place the roasting pan with the ham in the preheated oven. For a 9 pound frozen ham, it will take approximately 4-5 hours to cook. It’s important to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 145°F (63°C).

5. Baste the ham: During the cooking process, periodically baste the ham with its own juices or a glaze of your choice. This will keep the ham moist and add flavor.

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6. Rest and serve: Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, take it out of the oven. Let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender ham.

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Note: Cooking times may vary depending on your specific oven and the thickness of the ham. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is fully cooked.

Preparing the ham

Before cooking the frozen ham, it is important to properly prepare it to ensure the best results. Follow these steps to get your 9-pound frozen ham ready:

1. Thawing the ham

If your ham is frozen, it needs to be thawed before cooking. The safest way to thaw a frozen ham is by letting it thaw slowly in the refrigerator. Place the ham on a tray or in a roasting pan to catch any drips. Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time for every 5 pounds of ham. For a 9-pound frozen ham, it will take around 48 hours to thaw completely in the refrigerator.

2. Preparing the glaze

While the ham is thawing, you can prepare a glaze to enhance its flavor. A simple glaze can be made by combining brown sugar, mustard, and honey in a bowl. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined.

Pro tip: For added flavor, you can also add spices such as cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the glaze mixture.

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3. Preheating the oven

Once the ham is thawed and the glaze is prepared, it’s time to preheat the oven. Set the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and allow it to fully preheat. Preheating the oven will ensure even cooking of the ham.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll have a perfectly cooked and flavorful 9-pound frozen ham.

Cooking Options

When it comes to cooking a 9-pound frozen ham, you have a few options to choose from. Here are three popular methods:

1. Oven Method

The oven method is a classic and reliable way to cook a frozen ham. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Take the ham out of the packaging and place it on a rack in a roasting pan. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to keep the ham moist and prevent it from drying out.

Calculate the cooking time based on the weight of your ham. Generally, you should allow about 20 to 25 minutes per pound. This means a 9-pound ham will take approximately 3 to 3.5 hours to cook. However, cooking times may vary, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the ham should reach 145°F (63°C).

Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

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2. Slow Cooker Method

If you prefer a hands-off approach, using a slow cooker is a great option. Place the frozen ham in the slow cooker and cover it with the lid. Cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours or on high heat for 4 to 4.5 hours. Again, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.

Note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your slow cooker, so it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Instant Pot Method

For those who own an Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker, cooking a frozen ham can be quick and easy. Place the ham in the Instant Pot with the trivet and add a cup of water or broth. Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes for a 9-pound ham. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully release the pressure and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Remember to consult your Instant Pot’s manual for specific instructions and guidelines.

Regardless of the cooking method you choose, always make sure to follow proper food safety guidelines and allow the ham to rest before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade ham!

Slow cooking method

If you prefer a tender and juicy ham, using the slow cooking method is a great option. Slow cooking allows the flavors to fully develop and ensures that the meat remains moist throughout the cooking process. Here is how to slow cook a 9 pound frozen ham:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Step 2: Remove the packaging from the frozen ham, including any plastic wrap or netting, and place it in a roasting pan.

Step 3: Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound.

Step 5: After the recommended cooking time, remove the foil and check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be fully cooked.

Step 6: If the temperature hasn’t been reached yet, continue cooking the ham in 15-minute intervals, checking the temperature regularly.

Step 7: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Step 8: Carve and serve the slow-cooked ham, and enjoy!

Note: Slow cooking times may vary depending on your specific oven and the type of ham you are using. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is safely cooked.

Oven cooking method

Cooking a 9-pound frozen ham in the oven requires some planning ahead, as it can take a considerable amount of time to cook through. However, the end result is a delicious and juicy ham that is worth the wait. Follow these steps to cook your frozen ham in the oven:

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Ham weight Cooking time (approx.)
9 pounds 4-5 hours

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Remove all packaging material from the frozen ham.

3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, making sure it fits comfortably.

4. Score the skin of the ham in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife, about 1/4 inch deep.

5. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Place the ham in the preheated oven and cook according to the cooking time chart above. It typically takes about 4-5 hours for a 9-pound frozen ham to cook through.

7. During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, remove the aluminum foil to allow the skin to crisp up.

8. Check the internal temperature of the ham using a meat thermometer. The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

9. Once the ham is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.

Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham is cooked to the proper internal temperature. Enjoy your delicious oven-cooked frozen ham!

Q&A

Can I cook a frozen 9 pound ham?

Yes, you can cook a frozen 9 pound ham. However, you need to adjust the cooking time.

How long do I need to cook a 9 pound frozen ham?

The general rule of thumb is to cook a frozen ham for 20 to 30 minutes per pound. So, for a 9 pound frozen ham, you should cook it for about 3 to 4.5 hours.

What temperature should I set the oven to when cooking a frozen 9 pound ham?

You should preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius) when cooking a frozen 9 pound ham.

Can I cook a 9 pound frozen ham in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook a 9 pound frozen ham in a slow cooker. However, it will take longer than in an oven. You should cook it on low heat for approximately 8 to 10 hours.

Is it safe to eat a 9 pound frozen ham if it’s not fully cooked?

No, it is not safe to eat a 9 pound frozen ham if it’s not fully cooked. The internal temperature of a ham should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) to be considered safe to eat.

How long do I need to cook a 9 pound frozen ham?

To cook a 9 pound frozen ham, you will need to bake it in the oven at 325°F for about 4 to 5 hours.

Can I cook a 9 pound frozen ham in a slow cooker?

No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen ham in a slow cooker. The low heat of a slow cooker will not be sufficient to safely and thoroughly cook the ham. It is best to thaw the ham before cooking it in the slow cooker.