Reheating a fully cooked spiral ham can be a simple and delicious way to enjoy this classic holiday dish.

Whether you have leftovers from a festive feast or you want to prepare a ham for a special occasion, knowing the best methods for reheating can help you achieve juicy and flavorful results.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps to reheat a fully cooked spiral ham, ensuring it retains its moistness and flavor.

Preparing the Spiral Ham

Before reheating the fully cooked spiral ham, you’ll need to take a few steps to ensure it turns out delicious and tender:

  • Thaw the ham if it’s frozen. Place the wrapped ham in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw for 24-48 hours before reheating. It’s essential to thaw the ham completely to ensure even cooking.
  • Remove the packaging. Unwrap the ham and discard any plastic or packaging materials. Keep the ham bone or any other included items for added flavor during reheating.
  • Score the ham. Use a sharp knife to score the surface of the ham in a crisscross pattern. This will help to create a beautiful presentation and allow the glaze to penetrate the meat.
  • Glaze the ham (optional). If desired, prepare a glaze using your favorite recipe or use the included glaze packet. Brush the glaze generously over the surface of the ham, making sure to get into the scored lines.
  • Place the ham in a baking dish. Choose a shallow baking dish large enough to hold the ham and any juices that may accumulate during cooking. Cover the dish with foil to help retain moisture.

With the spiral ham prepared and ready for reheating, you can move on to the next steps to ensure that it is cooked to perfection.

Choosing the Right Reheating Method

When it comes to reheating a fully cooked spiral ham, there are a few different methods you can choose from. The method you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the tools you have available in your kitchen.

Oven Method

The oven method is a popular way to reheat a spiral ham because it helps to preserve the moisture and flavor of the meat. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Place the spiral ham in a roasting pan or baking dish, with the cut side facing down.
  3. Wrap the ham tightly with aluminum foil to ensure the heat is retained.
  4. Bake the ham in the preheated oven for about 10 to 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
  5. Remove the foil and let the ham rest for a few minutes before serving.

Microwave Method

If you’re in a hurry or have limited oven space, reheating the spiral ham in the microwave is a convenient option. Follow these steps:

  1. Place the spiral ham slices in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
  3. Microwave the ham on medium power for 1 to 3 minutes per slice, or until it is heated through.
  4. Let the ham rest for a minute or two before serving.
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Note: The microwave method may result in a slightly drier texture compared to the oven method.

Overall, both the oven method and the microwave method can effectively reheat a fully cooked spiral ham. Choose the method that best suits your needs and enjoy your delicious ham leftovers!

Reheating in the Oven

Reheating your fully cooked spiral ham in the oven is a great way to ensure that it maintains its delicious flavor and stays juicy. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). This temperature is ideal for reheating the ham without drying it out.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham

Take the fully cooked spiral ham out of the refrigerator and remove any packaging or wrappings. Place it on a roasting rack inside a baking dish to catch any juices that may drip during reheating.

Note: If you want to add some extra flavor to your ham, you can brush it with a glaze before reheating. A mixture of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard makes a delicious glaze.

Step 3: Cover the Ham

Loosely cover the ham with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out during reheating. Make sure the foil is tented so that it doesn’t touch the surface of the ham.

Step 4: Reheat the Ham

Place the covered ham in the preheated oven and cook for about 10 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a 10-pound ham, you would reheat it for approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Tip: To ensure that the ham stays moist, you can baste it with the juices that collect in the baking dish every 30 minutes while reheating.

Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ham to check its internal temperature. The ham should reach a minimum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) to be considered safe to eat.

Note: If the ham’s internal temperature is not yet at 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), continue reheating it in the oven and check the temperature every 10 minutes until it reaches the desired level.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once the ham reaches the desired internal temperature, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful ham.

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Now you’re ready to serve your delicious reheated spiral ham! Enjoy!

Reheating in the Microwave

If you don’t have much time and need to reheat your fully cooked spiral ham quickly, using a microwave is a convenient option. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a slightly different texture compared to other reheating methods.

Here are the steps to properly reheat your fully cooked spiral ham in the microwave:

Step 1: Prepare the Ham

Remove any packaging or wrapping from the ham, and place it on a microwave-safe dish or plate.

Step 2: Add Moisture

To prevent the ham from drying out during microwaving, add a small amount of water or broth to the dish. Cover the ham with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to help retain moisture.

Step 3: Microwave

Set your microwave to medium power or around 50% power. The exact cooking time will vary based on the size and thickness of your ham, but as a general guideline, microwave for about 10 minutes per pound of ham. For example, if your ham weighs 3 pounds, microwave it for approximately 30 minutes.

It’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer after microwaving. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s thoroughly heated and safe to eat.

Step 4: Let it Rest

After microwaving, let the ham rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and enhances the flavor.

Remember, microwaving is a quick reheating option but may result in a slightly different texture. If you prefer a crispier exterior, consider using other reheating methods mentioned in this article.

Enjoy your reheated fully cooked spiral ham!

Reheating on the Stovetop

To reheat a fully cooked spiral ham on the stovetop, you will need a large pot or Dutch oven and a trivet or wire rack.

Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the bottom by about 2 inches.
  2. Place the trivet or wire rack in the bottom of the pot to elevate the ham and prevent it from touching the water.
  3. Put the ham in the pot, making sure it is resting on the trivet or wire rack.
  4. Cover the pot with a lid and heat over medium-high heat until the water comes to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the ham for about 15 minutes per pound, or until heated through.
  6. Using oven mitts or tongs, carefully remove the ham from the pot and place it on a cutting board or serving platter.
  7. Let the ham rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
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Remember to always check the temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

This stovetop method is an excellent way to reheat a fully cooked spiral ham without drying it out. The gentle steam from the water helps to retain moisture, ensuring a juicy and flavorful ham.

Serving the Reheated Spiral Ham

Once your spiral ham is fully reheated and ready to serve, there are several ways to present it to your guests.

Carving the Spiral Ham

To carve the reheated spiral ham, use a sharp knife to make even slices across the meat, following the natural lines of the spiral cuts. Slice as thick or as thin as desired.

Garnishing the Spiral Ham

Before serving, you may choose to garnish the spiral ham to enhance its presentation. There are various options for garnishing, such as:

1. Placing fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, on top of the ham.
2. Decoratively arranging slices of citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemons, around the ham.
3. Drizzling a glaze or sauce over the ham, such as a honey mustard glaze or cranberry sauce.

Choose the garnishing options that complement the flavor of the spiral ham and appeal to your guests.

Remember to provide serving utensils, such as a carving knife and fork, alongside the spiral ham to make it easy for guests to serve themselves.

With these serving suggestions, your reheated spiral ham will not only taste delicious but also look impressive on your dinner table.

Q&A

What is a spiral ham?

A spiral ham is a type of ham that has been cut in a spiral pattern around the bone, which makes it easier to slice and serve.

Can I reheat a fully cooked spiral ham?

Yes, you can reheat a fully cooked spiral ham. It is important to follow the proper reheating instructions to ensure that the ham is heated thoroughly and remains moist.

What is the best way to reheat a fully cooked spiral ham?

The best way to reheat a fully cooked spiral ham is to preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, wrap the ham tightly in foil, and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the ham for 10 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

How long can a fully cooked spiral ham be stored in the refrigerator?

A fully cooked spiral ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To ensure its freshness, it is recommended to wrap the ham tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.