how to cook ham in oven roaster

3 min read 12-01-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to cook a perfectly juicy and flavorful ham in your oven roaster! This comprehensive guide covers everything from choosing the right ham to achieving that perfect glaze. Get ready for a holiday feast or a special weeknight dinner with our easy-to-follow steps and pro tips for oven-roasted ham.

Choosing Your Ham

The first step to a delicious oven-roasted ham is selecting the right one. Ham comes in various forms:

Whole Ham: A bone-in ham, offering the most traditional flavor and often the most moist.
Half Ham: Half of a whole ham, either bone-in or boneless. A good option for smaller gatherings.
Boneless Ham: Convenient and easy to slice, but can sometimes be drier than bone-in options. Look for moisture-enhancing additives like water or natural juices.
Cured Ham: Already cooked and requires only heating, making it a quick and easy option. The cooking time will be significantly shorter than for an uncured ham.
Spiral-Sliced Ham: Pre-sliced and ready to serve after heating, perfect for convenience.

Pro Tip: Check the label carefully to determine if your ham is fully cooked or needs to be cooked. This will significantly impact cooking time and temperature.

Preparing Your Ham for Roasting

Once you've chosen your ham, it’s time to prep it for roasting. Even pre-cooked hams benefit from a little extra attention:

Remove the Packaging: Carefully remove all packaging from the ham.
Score the Ham (Optional): Scoring the ham's fat cap helps render the fat, adds flavor and creates a beautiful presentation. Use a sharp knife to make shallow, diagonal cuts across the fat, about ½ inch apart.
Prepare the Roasting Pan: Place your ham in the oven roaster. If using a roasting rack, place it inside to allow for even heat distribution.
Add Liquid (Optional): For added moisture, especially with a bone-in ham, add about 1 cup of water, apple cider, or broth to the bottom of the pan. This creates steam, helping to keep the ham moist.

Cooking Your Ham in the Oven Roaster

The cooking time will depend on the size and type of ham, as well as whether it's pre-cooked. Always refer to the package instructions for specific recommendations. However, here's a general guideline:

Pre-cooked Ham: Heat to 325°F (163°C) until heated through (internal temperature reaches 140°F/60°C). This typically takes about 10-15 minutes per pound.
Uncooked Ham: Requires a longer cooking time and higher temperature, usually around 325°F (163°C) to an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C). Consult your ham's packaging for specific instructions. This can take several hours.

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches the safe internal temperature. This is the most accurate way to prevent undercooking.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham (avoiding the bone). The internal temperature should reach:

140°F (60°C) for pre-cooked ham.
155°F (68°C) for uncooked ham.

Glazing Your Ham

Glazing your ham adds a beautiful shine and delicious flavor. You can use store-bought glaze or create your own. Some popular options include:

Brown Sugar Glaze: A classic combination of brown sugar, mustard, and spices.
Honey Glaze: Sweet and simple, honey glaze pairs well with ham.
Maple Glaze: Adds a touch of sophistication and a rich flavor.

How to Glaze: Brush the glaze over the ham during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.

Serving Your Oven-Roasted Ham

Once the ham is cooked and glazed to perfection, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

FAQs About Cooking Ham in an Oven Roaster

Q: Can I cook a frozen ham in my oven roaster?

A: It's generally not recommended to cook a ham from frozen in an oven roaster. Thawing it completely will ensure even cooking and better results.

Q: How do I store leftover ham?

A: Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I use a different type of oven besides an oven roaster?

A: Yes, you can cook ham in a conventional oven or even a slow cooker, but adjust cooking times and temperatures accordingly.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a delicious and impressive oven-roasted ham. Enjoy!