Ham Cooking Calculator
Perfectly baked ham for your holiday feast.
Ham Details
Ham Cooking Guide
Cooking a ham is technically usually "reheating" because most store-bought hams are already smoked and fully cooked. The goal is to warm it through gently without drying it out.
Types of Ham
- City Ham (Wet-cured/Smoked): The most common supermarket ham. It is fully cooked. You just need to heat it to 140°F.
- Fresh Ham: This is raw pork leg. It must be cooked completely like a roast to at least 145°F.
- Country Ham (Dry-cured): Very salty and preserved. Often needs soaking for 12-24 hours before cooking to remove excess salt.
Glazing Tips
Don't add your glaze too early! Sugar burns easily. Apply your glaze (honey, brown sugar, mustard, etc.) during the last 20-30 minutes of baking. Crank the heat up slightly if you want a caramelized crust.
FAQ
What temperature should I cook a ham at?
Most hams are best cooked low and slow at 325°F (163°C). This prevents the outer layer from drying out before the center is heated through.
Do I need to cover the ham when baking?
Yes, covering the ham with foil helps retain moisture. You can remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to glaze and brown the surface.
How do I know when the ham is done?
The only sure way is using a meat thermometer. Pre-cooked (smoked) hams need to reach 140°F (60°C). Fresh (uncooked) hams must reach 145°F (63°C).
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