If you’ve been wondering how long it takes to cook a ham, you’ve come to the right place. This article will provide all the information you need to know about cooking a delicious and juicy ham in no time.
Cooking a ham can be a daunting task for many, especially if they’ve never tried it before. But fear not! With the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can have a tasty meal on the table in no time.
Contents
What You’ll Need
Before you start cooking your ham, there are a few items you’ll need to make sure you have on hand. These include a roasting pan, a thermometer, a brush, and a basting solution.
You’ll also need to make sure your ham is completely thawed and at room temperature before you start cooking. If you’re buying a pre-cooked ham, make sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper thawing and heating.
Preparing Your Ham
Once your ham is thawed, you’ll want to prepare it for baking. Start by brushing the ham with a basting solution, which can be as simple as a combination of butter, honey, and water. This will help keep the ham moist and flavorful as it cooks.
Next, you’ll need to score the ham. This can be done with a sharp knife or a special scoring tool. Scoring the ham will help it cook evenly and ensure that all of the flavors get into the meat.
Cooking The Ham
Once your ham is prepped, it’s time to start cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the ham in a roasting pan. Place the roasting pan in the oven and cook the ham for about 20 minutes per pound.
Once the ham has cooked for the appropriate amount of time, you’ll want to check the temperature with a thermometer. The internal temperature of the ham should be at least 145°F for a safe and juicy finished product.
Finishing Touches
Once your ham has reached the desired temperature, you can add a few final touches. If you want a crispier exterior, brush the ham with additional basting solution and turn the oven up to 375°F. Bake the ham for an additional 10-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy.
If you want to add a touch of sweetness, you can brush the ham with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and mustard. Bake the ham for an additional 10-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and glazed.
Serving Your Ham
Once your ham is cooked and glazed to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Let the ham rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to settle and ensure that your ham is juicy and flavorful.
Carve the ham into thick slices and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Table: How Long To Cook A Ham
| Type of Ham | Weight | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Uncooked | 1 pound | 20 minutes |
| Uncooked | 2-3 pounds | 25 minutes |
| Uncooked | 3-5 pounds | 30 minutes |
| Cooked | 1 pound | 10 minutes |
| Cooked | 2-3 pounds | 15 minutes |
| Cooked | 3-5 pounds | 20 minutes |
Conclusion
Cooking a ham doesn’t have to be a difficult or intimidating process. With the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. And as they say, “A ham a day keeps the doctor away!”
So the next time you’re looking for a tasty meal, why not give a ham a try? You’ll be glad you did!
