If you’ve ever sat down at a holiday dinner, savoring the rich aroma of a well-cooked ham, you know the magic that a perfectly prepared piece of meat can bring to a gathering. The sweet, smoky flavors wafting through the air, the tender slices glistening on the platter there’s something undeniably special about it. Learning how to slow cook a precooked ham in the oven transforms this delightful dish into a centerpiece of love and warmth, ideal for any family meal.

This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories. My grandmother used to prepare ham every Christmas, filling the house with warmth and joy. The laughter around the table, the stories shared, and the satisfaction derived from a delicious meal made those gatherings unforgettable. Now, I carry forward this tradition, eager to share the same comfort with my family and friends, ensuring that the spirit of togetherness remains alive. You can learn more about this topic.

Why This Recipe Works

Slow cooking a precooked ham in the oven allows the flavors of your chosen glaze to penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in a juicy, tender ham. The low and slow approach ensures even heating, which is crucial when working with precooked meat. This method not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the ham from drying out, making each bite a delightful experience. Check out our related guide for more tips.

Ingredients

Note: You can substitute maple syrup for honey, or use a sugar alternative if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.

Steps / Instructions

Troubleshooting / Pro Tips

• Ensure your ham is fully thawed if frozen before cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; this prevents overcooking.
• If the glaze starts to burn, cover the ham loosely with foil to protect it while it finishes cooking.
• Save any leftover ham for delicious meals later, such as in soups or casseroles.

Serving Suggestions

This slow-cooked ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. For a holiday spread, add sides like green bean casserole or sweet potato casserole. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy them in sandwiches or casseroles for a comforting meal later in the week.

FAQ

• Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ham and glaze in advance. Just reheat it gently in the oven before serving.
• Can I freeze it, and how do I reheat it properly? Yes, leftover ham can be frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
• What can I serve with this? Consider pairing it with sides like scalloped potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh fruit salad.
• Why did my ham turn out dry? This can happen if the ham is overcooked. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and temperature closely.

Closing

Now that you know how to slow cook a precooked ham in the oven, it’s time to bring this delightful dish to your table! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe. Did you try it? Leave a comment below with your feedback or share a photo of your ham creation on social media, tagging us! Don’t forget to follow for more comforting family meals and festive recipes. Happy cooking!

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Slow Cooked Precooked Ham

Recipe by Chef

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

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Servings

− 8-10 +

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Prep Time

15 min

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Cook Time

1 hr 15 min

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Calories

—

Learn how to slow cook a precooked ham in the oven for a juicy, tender centerpiece for your family meal.

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1 (8-10 lb) precooked ham
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature is perfect for slow cooking.

2.

Remove the ham from its packaging. Score the surface in a crisscross pattern to help the glaze penetrate.

3.

In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and salt to create a glaze.

4.

Place the ham in a roasting pan, cut side down. Pour half of the glaze over the ham, spreading it evenly.

5.

Cover the pan tightly with foil, allowing the ham to heat through and retain moisture for about 1 hour.

6.

After an hour, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the ham. Bake uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).

7.

Remove from the oven and let the ham rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.