You’ve got a beautiful spiral cut ham and you’re ready to cook it. Knowing exactly how long to cook spiral cut ham in oven with foil covering is the key to a perfect, juicy result. This guide will walk you through every step, making it simple and stress-free.
A spiral ham is already fully cooked, which is great news. Your job is to heat it through gently and add flavor. Using foil is the best trick to keep it from drying out. Let’s get your ham ready for the table.
How Long To Cook Spiral Cut Ham In Oven
This is the core question. The general rule is to heat a spiral-sliced ham for about 10-12 minutes per pound in a 325°F oven. Since it’s pre-cooked, you’re just warming it to the ideal serving temperature.
Always use the weight on your ham’s package for your calculation. A common 8-pound ham will take roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 36 minutes. The foil covering is essential during this time.
Your goal is an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check. Insert it into the meaty part, avoiding the bone. Once it hits 140°F, it’s ready.
What You’ll Need
Gathering your tools first makes everything smoother. Here’s your checklist:
- Your spiral cut ham (any size)
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Roasting pan or a large baking dish with a rack
- Meat thermometer (this is non-negotiable for best results)
- Pastry brush for glazes
- Sharp knife for any extra scoring
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these numbered steps for a foolproof ham every single time.
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. This is the standard, safe temperature for heating ham. It warms it thoroughly without cooking out all the moisture.
While it heats, take the ham out of its packaging. Place it flat-side down on the rack in your roasting pan. If your ham came with a plastic cap or bone guard, remember to remove it.
2. Cover the Ham with Foil
Tent the ham loosely with a large piece of aluminum foil. You want to create a sealed tent, not wrap it tightly. Crimp the edges around the pan to seal in the steam.
This tenting method keeps the heat circulating while trapping moisture. It prevents the top slices from burning or drying out before the center is warm.
3. Calculate the Time and Bake
Do the math: 10-12 minutes per pound. Put the ham in the preheated oven and set your timer for the lower end of the range.
For example, a 9-pound ham would need about 90 minutes (9 x 10) initially. You’ll check the temperature later.
4. Prepare Your Glaze (Optional)
About 30 minutes before the ham is done, you can make a simple glaze. A classic one is:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons of the ham pan juices or orange juice
Mix these in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
5. Glaze and Finish Baking
When your timer goes off, carefully remove the ham. Open the foil tent. Brush about half of the glaze all over the ham, getting in between the slices.
Return it to the oven, uncovered, for the final 20-30 minutes. This allows the glaze to caramelize. Brush with the remaining glaze once more about 10 minutes before it’s done.
6. Check the Temperature and Rest
The most important step! Insert your meat thermometer into the thickest part. It should read 140°F.
If it’s not there yet, return it to the oven (you can cover it again if needed) and check every 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This lets the juices redistribute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these errors ensures your ham turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking: This is the biggest risk. Since the ham is already cooked, overheating makes it tough and dry. Trust the thermometer, not just the clock.
- Using a Tight Foil Wrap: A tight wrap can steam the ham too much, making the surface soggy. A loose tent is correct.
- Skipping the Rest: Cutting immediately causes all the good juices to run out onto the cutting board. Letting it rest keeps them in the meat.
- Not Using a Thermometer: Guessing doneness often leads to dry ham. A instant-read thermometer is your best friend here.
Tips for Extra Flavor and Moisture
Here are some extra tricks to make your ham even better.
- Before baking, pour a cup of apple juice, pineapple juice, or ginger ale in the bottom of the pan. The steam adds moisture and a subtle flavor.
- Place pineapple rings or cloves on the ham before glazing for a traditional look and taste.
- Score a diamond pattern on the surface fat if your ham isn’t pre-scored, this helps the glaze soak in.
- Save the bone and any leftover bits! They are perfect for making soup or beans later in the week.
FAQs: Your Spiral Ham Questions Answered
Do you cook a spiral ham covered or uncovered?
You cook it covered with foil for most of the time. Cover it tightly for the initial heating to keep it moist. Then, uncover it for the last 20-30 minutes if you are applying a glaze so it can caramelize.
What is the best temperature to cook a pre-cooked spiral ham?
325°F is the best and safest temperature. It heats the ham all the way through without drying it out or causing the glaze to burn too quickly.
How do you keep a spiral ham from drying out in the oven?
The foil covering is the main defense. Also, adding liquid to the pan bottom, not overcooking it, and using a glaze all help lock in moisture. Letting it rest before slicing is crucial too.
Can I cook the ham at a higher temperature for less time?
It’s not recommended. Higher heat can cause the outside to dry out or burn before the inside is properly warmed. A low and slow approach at 325°F gives the best, most even results.
How do you reheat leftover spiral ham?
For best results, reheat slices in a skillet with a little bit of water or broth, covered, over medium-low heat. You can also wrap larger portions in foil and warm them in a 325°F oven until heated through. The key is to use gentle heat and add moisture.
Cooking a spiral cut ham is truly simple once you know the basics. Remember the formula: 325°F, 10-12 minutes per pound, covered in foil, until it reaches 140°F inside. With your foil tent and meat thermometer, you’re guaranteed a delicious centerpiece for your meal that everyone will enjoy. The process is straightforward and the results are always impressive.