When it comes to cooking a bone-in ham in the oven, timing is everything. A bone-in ham, also known as a shank portion ham, is a delicious and classic choice for holiday dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a hearty meal, knowing how long to cook a bone-in ham will ensure that it turns out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Before you start, it’s important to note that the cooking time for a bone-in ham will vary depending on its weight and whether it is fully cooked or partially cooked. A fully cooked bone-in ham will require less time in the oven compared to a partially cooked one. It’s also worth mentioning that a bone-in ham should always be cooked in a preheated oven for optimal results.

For a fully cooked bone-in ham:

If the ham weighs between 10-14 pounds, the recommended cooking time is 18-20 minutes per pound. So, for a 12-pound fully cooked bone-in ham, the estimated cooking time would be approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before removing it from the oven.

For a partially cooked bone-in ham:

If the ham weighs between 10-14 pounds, the recommended cooking time is 20-25 minutes per pound. This means that a 12-pound partially cooked bone-in ham would require about 4 to 5 hours in the oven. It’s important to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.

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Remember to let the ham rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute and for easier slicing. Whether you choose a fully cooked or partially cooked bone-in ham, following these guidelines will result in a delicious and perfectly cooked centerpiece for your meal.

How to Cook a Bone-In Ham in the Oven

When cooking a bone-in ham in the oven, it’s important to follow a few simple steps to ensure a delicious and perfectly cooked result. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Remove the ham from its packaging and place it on a clean cutting board. Pat the ham dry with paper towels.

Cooking:

1. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan with the fat side up. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the ham directly in the pan.

2. Score the fat with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern, making sure to not cut too deep into the meat.

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3. Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil and bake the ham in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes per pound.

Glazing:

1. While the ham is baking, prepare the glaze. You can use a variety of glazes such as honey mustard, brown sugar, or pineapple glaze.

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2. About 30 minutes before the ham is done cooking, remove it from the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F (218°C).

3. Brush the glaze generously over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored cuts.

4. Return the ham to the oven, uncovered, and continue baking for the remaining cooking time or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is heated through.

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Serving:

1. Once the ham is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.

2. Slice the ham and serve it warm. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Remember to keep an eye on the ham while it’s cooking to prevent it from drying out. Enjoy your delicious bone-in ham!


Recommended Cooking Times for Bone-In Ham
Ham Weight Cooking Time
4 to 6 pounds 72 to 90 minutes
6 to 8 pounds 90 to 120 minutes
8 to 10 pounds 120 to 150 minutes
10 to 12 pounds 150 to 180 minutes

Preparation Steps

Before cooking your bone-in ham in the oven, there are a few preparation steps you should follow to ensure the best results.

1. Thaw the ham: If your ham is frozen, you will need to thaw it before cooking. Place the ham in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours until it is completely thawed. Make sure to remove any plastic or packaging from the ham before cooking.

2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure a consistent cooking temperature throughout.

3. Score the ham: Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern on the surface of the ham. This will help the glaze penetrate and give the ham an attractive appearance.

4. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together your desired glaze ingredients. This could be a combination of brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, or any other flavorings you prefer. Set the glaze aside for later.

5. Place the ham in a roasting pan: Choose a roasting pan that is large enough to accommodate your ham. Place the ham, fat side up, in the roasting pan. You can also line the pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.

6. Brush the ham with the glaze: Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the ham with the prepared glaze, making sure to cover the entire surface. This will add flavor and help the ham develop a delicious golden crust.

7. Cover the ham: If desired, you can cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during the cooking process. This is optional, but it can help keep the ham moist.

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8. Cook the ham: Place the roasting pan with the ham in the preheated oven. Cook the ham for about 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) on a meat thermometer.

9. Baste the ham: Every 45 minutes to an hour, remove the ham from the oven and brush it with more glaze. This will give the ham a shiny, flavorful coating.

10. Rest and carve the ham: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for easier slicing.

Following these preparation steps will ensure that your bone-in ham is cooked to perfection and full of flavor. Enjoy!

Seasoning Options

When cooking a bone-in ham in the oven, there are several seasoning options that you can choose from to add flavor and enhance the taste of the ham. Here are some ideas:

1. Honey Glaze

A honey glaze adds a touch of sweetness to the ham and helps to create a delicious caramelized crust. To make a honey glaze, combine honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cloves. Brush the glaze over the ham during cooking, allowing it to soak in and create a flavorful coating.

2. Mustard and Herb Rub

For a savory flavor profile, try a mustard and herb rub. Mix Dijon mustard with fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. Rub the mixture all over the ham before placing it in the oven. The mustard adds tanginess while the herbs provide a fragrant and tasty crust.

3. Citrus and Spice Rub

To give your ham a bright and zesty flavor, try a citrus and spice rub. Combine orange or lemon zest with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Rub this mixture onto the ham before cooking to infuse it with a delicious citrusy aroma and warm spiced notes.

4. Maple and Brown Sugar Glaze

A classic combination for ham is a maple and brown sugar glaze. Mix maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a dash of cinnamon. Brush the glaze onto the ham during cooking to create a shiny, flavorful coating that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the meat.

Experiment with these seasoning options to find your favorite flavor combination for a perfectly seasoned bone-in ham cooked in the oven. Enjoy the delicious result!

Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking a bone-in ham requires the right amount of time and temperature to ensure it is cooked properly and remains moist and flavorful. The cooking time and temperature can vary depending on the size and weight of the ham, as well as personal preference.

Cooking Temperature

The recommended temperature for cooking a bone-in ham is 325°F (163°C). This temperature allows the ham to cook evenly and helps to retain its juiciness.

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Cooking Time

The cooking time for a bone-in ham can vary based on its weight.

Weight Cooking Time
Up to 9 pounds 20 minutes per pound
9 to 12 pounds 18 minutes per pound
Over 12 pounds 15 minutes per pound

It is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Remember to allow the cooked ham to rest for a few minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful ham.

Basting the Ham

After the ham has been cooking for about half of the total recommended cooking time, it’s time to start basting. Basting is the process of brushing the ham with a flavorful mixture to keep it moist and add extra flavor.

Here is a simple basting mixture to try:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of honey
  • 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup of brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon of vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper

In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined.

After the first half of the cooking time, remove the ham from the oven and brush it generously with the basting mixture. Make sure to coat all sides of the ham, including the bottom.

Return the ham to the oven and continue cooking, basting every 20-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) and the ham is nicely glazed.

Remember, basting is an important step to keep the ham moist and flavorful. So don’t forget to take the time to baste regularly during the cooking process.

Q&A

How long do I need to cook a bone-in ham in the oven?

A bone-in ham typically needs to cook in the oven for about 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). So, for a 10-pound bone-in ham, it would take approximately 2.5-3.5 hours to cook.

What is the recommended cooking time for a bone-in ham in the oven?

The recommended cooking time for a bone-in ham in the oven is approximately 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C). However, it is always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving.

Is there a faster way to cook a bone-in ham in the oven?

Yes, there is a faster way to cook a bone-in ham in the oven. You can increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook the ham for approximately 10-15 minutes per pound. However, it is important to regularly check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.