How Long Do You Cook Spiral Ham in the Oven Step by Step
You’ll cook your spiral ham at 325°F for about 12 to 15 minutes per pound. Place it cut-side down on a rack in a shallow pan with some water to keep it moist.
Cover tightly with foil and heat until it hits 140°F inside.
Near the end, brush on glaze every 5 minutes. Then increase the oven to 400°F or broil briefly for a caramelized finish.
Want to know the perfect way to rest and serve it?
Preparing and Heating the Spiral Ham
Before heating your spiral ham, preheat the oven to 325°F and remove the ham from its packaging. Since spiral ham is typically pre-cooked, your goal is to heat it through without drying it out.
Place the ham on a wire rack inside a shallow roasting pan, with the cut side facing down to retain juices during cooking. Add about 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of the roasting pan to maintain moisture throughout the heating process.
Set the ham cut side down on a wire rack with water in the pan to keep it moist.
Cover the ham tightly with foil to trap heat and prevent drying. Heat the ham at this temperature for approximately 12-15 minutes per pound, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Once done, let it rest before proceeding with glazing and final cooking steps. This way, your ham stays juicy and delicious!
Applying Glaze and Final Cooking Steps
When your spiral ham is nearly heated through, it’s time to apply the glaze to bring out rich, caramelized flavors. Brush the glaze evenly over the ham every 5 minutes during the last 20 minutes of cooking to avoid burning.
For the final cooking step, increase the oven temperature to 400°F or switch to broil for 10 minutes to achieve a crispy, caramelized finish. Use a basting brush to cover all surfaces thoroughly.
Remove the ham once the internal temperature hits 140°F, as carryover cooking raises it to 145°F. Let it rest 10-15 minutes before carving to let juices redistribute.
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Glazing Start | Oven 325°F | Last 20 mins |
| Basting Frequency | Every 5 minutes | During glazing |
| Final Heat | 400°F/Broil | Last 10 mins |
| Resting | Room temp | 10-15 mins |
Conclusion
Now that your spiral ham has taken a warm, golden bath in the oven, it’s ready to shine at your table. The glaze you brushed on has wrapped it in a sweet, sticky hug, locking in all those savory secrets.
As you slice through the tender spirals, imagine the joy and comfort each bite will bring. This perfectly cooked spiral ham is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special family gathering, your oven-baked spiral ham will be the star that makes everything cozier and more memorable.
Enjoy every slice of this delicious centerpiece, knowing you followed each step to cook your spiral ham in the oven just right. It’s a simple process that leads to big, tasty rewards.
