how to bake a ham in an electric roaster

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

06-02-2025

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Meta Description: Learn how to bake a perfectly juicy and flavorful ham in your electric roaster! This easy guide provides step-by-step instructions, tips for choosing the right ham, and delicious glaze recipes. Get ready for a holiday feast or a special weekend dinner that's sure to impress!

Choosing Your Ham

Before you even start thinking about glazing, you need the star of the show: the ham! There are several types to choose from, each offering a unique flavor and cooking experience:

• Bone-in Ham: These hams retain more moisture during cooking, resulting in a juicier final product. They also tend to have a more intense, traditional ham flavor.
• Spiral-Sliced Ham: These hams are already partially cooked and sliced, making them incredibly convenient for a quick meal. They require less cooking time.
• Water-Added Ham: These hams have been injected with water, increasing their weight but potentially reducing the overall flavor intensity.

Preparing Your Electric Roaster

Your electric roaster is the key to a perfectly cooked, tender ham. Here’s how to prep it:

1. Preheat: Preheat your electric roaster to 325°F (160°C). This ensures even cooking from the start.
2. Roaster Size: Make sure your roaster is large enough to comfortably accommodate your ham. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Add Liquid (Optional): For extra moisture and flavor, you can add about 1 cup of water, apple juice, or even beer to the bottom of the roaster. This creates steam, helping to keep the ham moist.

Baking the Ham

Now for the fun part! Here's a step-by-step guide to baking your ham in an electric roaster:

1. Place the Ham: Carefully place the ham in the preheated roaster. If using a bone-in ham, ensure it's placed with the bone side down.
2. Cooking Time: Cooking times vary depending on the size and type of ham. Consult the package instructions for the most accurate timing. A general guideline is approximately 10-15 minutes per pound for fully cooked hams (spiral-sliced), and 15-20 minutes per pound for bone-in hams that need to be fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Glazing (Optional): About 30 minutes before the ham is done, apply your favorite glaze. Many recipes are available online; try a brown sugar glaze, a honey mustard glaze, or a classic pineapple glaze. Basting periodically will help the glaze stick and create a beautiful, caramelized finish.

Important Note: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the ham (avoiding the bone) to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

How Long to Bake a Ham in an Electric Roaster?

This depends entirely on the type and weight of your ham. Always refer to the package instructions for specific cooking times. However, here’s a general guide:

• Fully Cooked/Spiral-Sliced Ham: 10-15 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C). This is primarily to heat through and add glaze.
• Raw Bone-in Ham: 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F (160°C). This ensures the ham is fully cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Remember: Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to ensure your ham is cooked through.

Delicious Glaze Recipes

Here are a couple of easy glaze recipes to elevate your ham:

Brown Sugar Glaze:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons butter

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth and bubbly. Brush onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Honey Mustard Glaze:

• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Whisk together all ingredients and brush onto the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking, basting occasionally.

Resting Your Ham

Once the ham reaches the proper internal temperature, remove it from the roaster and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham.

Serving and Enjoying Your Roasted Ham

Slice your perfectly cooked ham and serve it with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and sweet potato casserole are classic pairings. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Baking a ham in an electric roaster is a simple and effective way to create a delicious centerpiece for any meal. By following these instructions and choosing your preferred glaze, you’re guaranteed a tender, flavorful ham that will impress your family and friends. Remember to always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety. Happy cooking!