Whether you are dealing with holiday leftovers or a store-bought pre-cooked ham, the secret to a delicious second meal lies in the timing. Ham is a lean protein that is highly susceptible to drying out, turning a succulent meat into something resembling shoe leather if not handled with care. Understanding how long to reheat ham—and at what temperature—ensures that every slice remains as juicy and flavorful as the first time it was served.
The Science of Reheating Without Drying Out
Most hams sold in grocery stores are already fully cooked or smoked. This means your goal isn’t to “”cook”” the meat again, but rather to gently bring it up to a palatable serving temperature. When you reheat ham, the primary enemy is evaporation. Because ham is cured with salt, it naturally wants to hold onto moisture, but intense heat will force those juices out.
To maintain the integrity of the meat, the USDA suggests that ham should be reheated to an internal temperature of 140°F if it was packaged in a USDA-inspected plant. However, if you are reheating leftovers that have been handled or repackaged at home, you should aim for 165°F to ensure food safety.
Reheating a Whole Ham in the Oven
The oven is the most traditional and effective method for reheating large portions of ham, such as a whole or half-bone-in ham. This method allows for even heat distribution, which is crucial for larger cuts of meat.
Preparation and Temperature Settings
Before you even look at the clock, set your oven to 325°F. This lower temperature is the “sweet spot” that allows the heat to penetrate to the center of the ham without scorching the exterior. To prevent moisture loss, place the ham cut-side down in a heavy roasting pan. Add about half a cup of water, apple juice, or chicken broth to the bottom of the pan to create a steaming environment.
Time per Pound
The general rule for an oven-reheated whole ham is 10 to 15 minutes per pound. For a standard 10-pound ham, you are looking at a total time of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes.
If you are reheating a boneless ham, the density of the meat is different, and it often requires slightly longer—about 12 to 15 minutes per pound. Conversely, a bone-in ham might heat more quickly near the bone, requiring about 10 to 12 minutes per pound. Always use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the ham, ensuring it reaches 140°F.
How Long to Reheat Spiral Sliced Ham
Spiral-cut hams are incredibly popular because they are pre-sliced and easy to serve. However, those very slices make the ham more vulnerable to drying out because there is more surface area exposed to the air.
Protecting the Slices
When reheating a spiral ham, wrapping it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil is non-negotiable. Some chefs even recommend wrapping the ham in parchment paper first and then foil to create a double barrier against moisture loss.
Timing for Spiral Cuts
Because the heat can move between the slices more easily than through a solid block of meat, spiral hams often require less time. Aim for 10 minutes per pound at 325°F. For a 5-pound spiral ham, 50 minutes is usually sufficient. If you notice the edges starting to curl or turn white, the ham is getting too hot and should be removed immediately.
Quick Methods for Individual Ham Slices
Sometimes you don’t need to heat a whole roast; you just want a few slices for a sandwich or a quick dinner. In these cases, the oven is inefficient, and faster methods are preferred.
Using the Stovetop
The stovetop is excellent for giving ham a slightly seared, caramelized edge. Place your slices in a skillet over medium heat. To keep them moist, add a tablespoon of water or a small pat of butter. Heat for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Because the contact with the pan is direct, the internal temperature rises very quickly, so stay close to the stove.
The Microwave Method
If speed is your priority, the microwave can work, but it requires a gentle touch. Place the ham slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This towel creates a small steam chamber that prevents the meat from becoming rubbery. Heat on medium power (about 50 percent) in 30-second bursts. Total time usually ranges from 1 to 2 minutes depending on the thickness of the slices.
Air Fryer Reheating
The air fryer has become a favorite for leftovers. To reheat ham in an air fryer, set the temperature to 320°F. It is highly recommended to wrap the ham slices in a small foil packet with a teaspoon of water or broth. This prevents the high-velocity air of the fryer from dehydrating the meat. Heat for 3 to 5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure the ham hasn’t reached the “leathery” stage.
Reheating Ham in a Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is the ultimate “set it and forget it” method, and it is arguably the best way to ensure the ham stays moist. Since the slow cooker traps all moisture inside, the ham essentially poaches in its own juices.
Slow Cooker Instructions
Place your ham in the crock and add a liquid of your choice—pineapple juice and ginger ale are popular choices for a sweet finish. Set the cooker to “Low.” For a small 3-pound ham, it will take approximately 2 to 3 hours to reach the desired internal temperature. For larger hams that barely fit the pot, you may need up to 4 hours. Avoid using the “High” setting, as the intense heat at the bottom of the ceramic pot can overcook the bottom of the ham before the top is warm.
Important Safety and Storage Tips
- Leftover ham should be refrigerated within two hours of its initial cooking. It can safely stay in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
- If you don’t plan to eat it within that window, ham freezes exceptionally well for up to two months.
- When thawing a frozen ham to reheat it, always do so in the refrigerator. A large ham can take 24 to 48 hours to thaw completely.
- Never try to reheat a large ham from a frozen state, as the outside will be dangerously overcooked by the time the center thaws and warms up.
FAQs
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How do I reheat ham without it getting tough?
The best way to keep ham tender is to use a low temperature (325°F), add a liquid like water or broth to the pan, and cover the meat tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam.
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Can you eat pre-cooked ham without reheating it?
Yes, most hams sold in stores are fully cooked and safe to eat cold right out of the package. Reheating is purely for personal preference and to enhance the flavor of glazes.
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How many times can you reheat ham?
It is safest to reheat ham only once. Each time you heat and cool meat, you increase the risk of bacterial growth and significantly degrade the texture of the protein.
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What is the best liquid to add to the pan when reheating?
While water works well, using apple juice, orange juice, or chicken broth adds an extra layer of flavor. For a traditional holiday taste, a mixture of pineapple juice and brown sugar is a great choice.
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Should I glaze the ham before or after reheating?
You should wait until the last 20 to 30 minutes of the reheating process to apply a glaze. Glazes often contain high amounts of sugar, which can burn if left in the oven for the entire duration of the reheating time.