Smithfield smoked hams have an incredible robust, smoky flavor that makes them the perfect centerpiece for holidays and special occasions But cooking them just right is key to bringing out that signature flavor
Follow this complete guide to learn how to cook a Smithfield smoked ham, from thawing and prepping to baking and glazing. With these simple steps, you’ll have tender, juicy slices with wonderful smoky notes in no time.
Ingredients Needed
To cook up a delicious Smithfield smoked ham, you will need:
- 1 Smithfield smoked bone-in half ham or whole ham (uncooked)
- Aluminum foil
- Glaze ingredients (brown sugar, honey, etc. if desired)
Step 1: Thaw the Ham
Smithfield smoked hams are shipped frozen to seal in freshness So first you’ll need to safely thaw the ham
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Place the frozen ham in the refrigerator in a tray to catch any drips
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Allow approximately 24 hours of thawing time per 4-5 pounds of ham.
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A 10 lb. ham would take 2-3 days to thaw completely.
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Do not thaw at room temperature, as this risks bacterial growth.
Step 2: Prepare the Ham
Once fully thawed, get the ham ready to cook:
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Remove all packaging, leaving the ham wrapped in the inner cryovac covering.
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Set the ham fat side up on a rack placed inside a roasting pan.
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The rack elevates the ham to prevent simmering in its drippings.
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Place any packed juices from the cryovac in the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Bake Uncovered at 325°F
Preheating the oven is the next step before cooking:
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Preheat the oven to 325°F.
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Once preheated, place the ham directly on the oven rack.
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Bake the ham fat side up, uncovered at 325°F.
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This allows the outside to brown while the inside stays tender.
Step 4: Determine Cook Time
Cooking time will vary based on the size of your ham:
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For a 4-6 lb ham, bake approximately 1 hour 10 minutes.
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For an 8-10 lb ham, bake around 1 hour 45 minutes.
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For a 12-15 lb ham, bake about 2 hours 30 minutes.
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In general, allow 15-20 minutes per pound.
Step 5: Begin Temperature Checks at Hour Mark
Monitor doneness carefully toward the end of estimated cook time:
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After the first hour of cooking, begin checking temperature periodically.
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Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone.
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The ham should reach 145°F-150°F when done.
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If the ham is not yet at temperature, continue baking and checking every 10-15 minutes until it reaches 145°F-150°F.
Step 6: Apply Glaze and Broil
For delicious flavor, apply a glaze about 15 minutes before the ham is fully cooked:
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In a saucepan, prepare your glaze of choice, like brown sugar, honey or pineapple.
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Brush the glaze over the ham, coating completely.
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Broil the glazed ham for approximately 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
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Remove the ham from the oven when the internal temperature hits 145°F-150°F.
Step 7: Allow Ham to Rest
Never slice into hot ham right off the oven! Letting it rest is crucial:
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Once removed from the oven, tent the ham loosely in foil.
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Allow 20-30 minutes of resting time before carving.
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This resting period allows juices to redistribute evenly for moist ham.
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The internal temperature will rise another 5°F-10°F during rest time.
Step 8: Carve and Serve the Ham
After resting, it’s time to carve into that beautiful ham!
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Place the ham on a cutting board, fat side up. Use a long sharp knife.
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Cut thin slices, starting from the small “heel” end of the ham.
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Cut across the grain for tender slices that are easy to chew.
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Arrange carved slices on a serving platter and spoon over pan juices.
Now you can dig into the smoky, juicy ham goodness! It’s terrific served with scalloped potatoes, roasted veggies, biscuits, and other sides.
Tips for Maximizing Flavor
Here are some additional pointers for cooking your Smithfield smoked ham:
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Choose a bone-in ham for the most flavor and moisture. The bone conducts heat gently.
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Add apple, cherry, pecan, or hickory wood chips to the pan for extra smoky flavor.
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Score the ham and stud it with whole cloves for beautiful presentation.
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Save extra glaze to brush over ham slices just before serving for a sticky coating.
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Use the bone and leftovers for flavoring soups like split pea or bean soup.
Troubleshooting Common Ham Issues
Having trouble getting perfect results? Here are some common ham cooking issues and how to avoid them:
Dry or tough ham – This happens if cooked too long. Use a meat thermometer for doneness.
Not enough flavor – Try a longer rest time, carving thinner slices across the grain, or adding wood chips.
Bland or hard glaze – Make sure to brush on glaze in the last 15 minutes only so sugars don’t burn.
Curled up edges – Prevent curled up fat edges by scoring the fat cap before cooking.
Ham won’t fit in pan – Opt for a smaller ham or use a roasting bag to fit hams over 12 lbs.
Still pink inside – Double check the thickest part with a thermometer. Cook longer if under 145°F.
Enjoy Your Perfectly Cooked Ham
Cooking up an incredible Smithfield smoked ham is easy and rewarding when you follow these simple steps. The aroma as it bakes will have your mouth watering.
Be sure to let your cooked ham rest before slicing, and seal up leftovers promptly. Sliced Smithfield ham keeps in the fridge for 7-10 days. Frozen ham will last 2-3 months.
What’s your favorite way to flavor a holiday ham? Maple? Brown sugar? Share your best ham recipes and tips!
Preparation and cooking guidelines
Cooking a Smithfield ham requires some preparation and attention to detail to ensure a delectable outcome. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Pick the right ham: Pick a Smithfield ham that works for you. They come in different sizes, so think about how many people you want to serve and how much food you want to have left over.
- Get the ham ready: It’s important to soak the ham in cold water for 12 to 24 hours before cooking to get rid of extra salt. Change the water at least once during the soaking process.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Making sure the rack is at the lowest level will give the ham enough room.
- Score the ham: Make shallow cuts on the surface of the ham in the shape of a diamond with a sharp knife. This will not only make it look better, but it will also let the flavors get inside.
- Glaze it: Cover the ham’s scored surface with a tasty glaze of your choice. You can use a honey and brown sugar glaze or a sour mustard glaze. However you like it. Make sure to evenly coat the ham.
- To bake the ham, put it on a rack in a roasting pan that has a little water in the bottom. Place foil over the ham and bake it according to the manufacturer’s weight and cooking instructions. Allow 15 to 18 minutes of cooking time per pound as a general rule.
- Baste and cover: About every 30 minutes, baste the ham with the glaze or the drippings that came with it to keep it moist and tasty. Take off the foil about 30 minutes before the ham is done to let the top get a beautiful golden crust.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your ham to make sure it’s done just right. A ham should be 140°F (60°C) when it’s fully cooked.
- Once the ham is at the right temperature, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Then cut it up. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes slicing easier. Carve thin slices and serve warm.
How To Cook A Smithfield Ham: A Delicious Delight
Smithfield hams are a true culinary delight that can elevate any meal to new heights. People love them for special occasions and holiday feasts because they smell great, taste great, and are tender. If you’re wondering how to cook a Smithfield ham to perfection, look no further. This guide will show you the steps you need to take to get a delicious result that will wow your family and friends.
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FAQ
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