With the holidays coming up soon, ham is going to be a staple on many dinner tables. Sliced ham is especially convenient because it’s already cooked and can be kept as leftovers, whether it’s stored in the fridge or frozen. This makes it important to know how to reheat cooked ham.
Ham is a type of pork that has been cured, smoked or both. There are many different types of ham available on the market, ranging from lean and tender to salty and dry. Although ham slices can be enjoyed cold, many people prefer to reheat them before eating. Ham slices can be reheated in several different ways, depending on your personal preferences.
For example, you can reheat ham slices in the oven, in the microwave, or on the stovetop. However, it is important to keep in mind that ham slices are already cooked, so you will only need to reheat them until they are warm throughout.
Overheating ham slices can cause them to become tough and dry.
As such, it is best to err on the side of caution when reheating ham slices. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy perfectly reheated ham slices that are moist and flavourful.
How Long Does It Take to Reheat a Sliced Ham?
Whether serving as part of a breakfast spread or as the main protein in a dinner dish, sliced ham reheats quickly and easily.
On average, it takes less than five minutes to reheat a single slice of ham. This quick cooking time makes sliced ham an ideal choice when time is tight or when unexpected guests drop by.
Any good cook knows that reheating sliced ham can be a challenge. If you’re not careful, the ham can quickly dry out, becoming tough and unpalatable. However, there are a few simple techniques that can help to keep your sliced ham moist and delicious.
First, make sure to slice the ham thinly. Thick slices are more likely to dry out during reheating. Second, reheat the ham in a covered dish, using a little bit of water or chicken stock to create steam. This will help to keep the ham from drying out. Finally, add a few spoonfuls of glaze before serving. This will help to add moisture and flavor back into the ham.
Remember that what you use to reheat the ham (microwave, oven, etc.) can also make a large difference.
Microwave
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to reheat sliced ham, the microwave is a great option. Just be sure to follow these tips to ensure that your ham comes out moist and delicious:
#01: Use a Microwave-Safe Dish
Place the slices on a plate or in a dish that has been lined with damp paper towels. This will help to keep the ham from drying out as it reheats.
#02: Cook the Ham
Cook the ham on low power for 30-60 seconds, depending on how many slices you are reheating. Be sure to check the ham frequently so that it doesn’t overcook.
#03: Remove and Enjoy!
Next, remove the ham from the microwave and set it on a plate. Let it cool for a few minutes so you can enjoy it without burning your mouth.
Oven
While reheating ham in the oven may take longer than other methods, it is a great way to keep the ham moist and delicious. Just follow these simple steps for perfectly reheated ham every time:
#01: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before reheating your cooked ham. This will help ensure that the ham is heated evenly and thoroughly.
#02: Prepare a Baking Dish
Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper, then place the sliced ham in the dish.
#03: Add Water or Chicken Stock
Add a few spoonfuls of water or chicken stock to the dish, then cover it with foil. This will create steam and help to keep the ham moist as it reheats.
Place the ham in the oven and let it cook for 15 minutes. This will help the ham retain its flavor and juiciness.
#05: Remove
Once the ham is reheated through, remove it from the oven and enjoy.
Frying Pan
Another great way to reheat ham is in a frying pan on the stovetop. This method is quick and easy, and it produces perfectly moist and delicious ham every time.
Just follow these steps to reheat your sliced ham:
#01: Add Water or Chicken Stock
Pour a bit of water or chicken stock into a frying pan, then heat it over medium heat.
#02: Add the Ham and Cover
Add the sliced ham to the pan, then cover it with a lid.
This will create steam and help to keep the ham moist as it reheats.
#03: Add More Stock or Water if Necessary
As the water or chicken stock begins to evaporate, add more to the pan so that the ham doesn’t dry out.
#04: Cook
Cook the ham for a few minutes. Then, remove it from the heat and enjoy. The ham will be cooked to perfection, and you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal.
Air Fryer
As any air fryer owner knows, this appliance is not just for fried foods. In fact, it can be used to reheat a variety of foods, including sliced ham.
Just follow these steps to reheat your sliced ham:
#01: Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get started.
#02: Cook
Then, place the sliced ham in the basket and cook for three minutes. This will help to keep the ham moist and delicious.
#03: Remove and Enjoy
Once the ham is heated through, remove it from the air fryer and enjoy. It’s that simple!
Steamer
Reheating sliced ham can be tricky- you don’t want it to dry out, but you also don’t want it to be tough. One of the best ways to reheat sliced ham is in a steamer.
Follow these steps to reheat sliced ham in your steamer:
#01: Put the Ham in the Steamer
Place the sliced ham in a steamer basket and set it over a pot of boiling water.
#02: Cover and Cook
Cover the pot with a lid and let the steam work its magic for five minutes. This will help to keep the ham moist without overcooking it.
#03: Check and Heat More, If Necessary
After five minutes, remove the lid and check on the ham. If it is heated through, remove it from the steamer and enjoy. If not, replace the lid and let it steam for a few more minutes.
By using an instant pot, you can reheat sliced ham quickly and easily. Just follow these steps to reheat your sliced ham:
#01: Add Water or Chicken Stock
Place the sliced ham in the Instant Pot and add water or chicken stock.
#02: Set to Steam
Cook on the steaming setting for five minutes. Remove the lid and check on the ham. If it is not reheated completely through, replace the lid and let it steam for a few more minutes.
#03: Remove and Enjoy
Once the ham is heated through, remove it from the Instant Pot and enjoy. It’s that quick and easy.
Slow Cooker
While using a slow cooker may take more time than other methods, it is a great way to reheat sliced ham without drying it out. Just follow these steps to reheat your sliced ham in a slow cooker:
#01: Add Water or Chicken Stock
Place the sliced ham in your slow cooker and add water or chicken stock.
#02: Let Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for two hours. This will help you maintain the juiciness of any ham, while also ensuring that flavor is not lost in translation.
#03: Remove and Enjoy
Once your ham is ready to enjoy, carefully remove it from the slow cooker.
How Long is Reheated Ham Good For?
Now you know all of the ways that sliced ham can be reheated while maintaining its flavor. But, how long is reheated ham good for?
Generally speaking, the reheated ham will be safe to eat for up to four days. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, make sure that the ham is completely heated through before eating. Second, be sure to store the ham properly in the fridge, in an airtight container, or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. And finally, if you’re not planning on eating the ham right away, you can freeze it for up to two months.
So there you have it! With some planning, you can enjoy your leftover ham without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tell if sliced ham is spoiled?
The easiest way to tell if sliced ham has gone bad is by the smell. If the ham smells sour or off, it is best to discard it. You can also check for mold growth or changes in color as indicators that the ham has spoiled.
How long can you keep cooked ham in the fridge?
Cooked ham can be stored in the fridge for up to four days when stored properly.
How do you store leftover ham?
Leftover ham can be stored in the fridge, in an airtight container, or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Conclusion
Reheating sliced ham is easy as long as you know the best methods. By using a steamer, Instant Pot, slow cooker, or another method, you can reheat your sliced ham without drying it out. Just be sure to check that it is heated all the way through before eating and store any leftovers in the fridge for no more than four days after reheating. With these tips, you can enjoy your leftover ham worry-free.
