Ham In A Can
A savory, versatile dish featuring canned ham infused with your favorite sauce, perfect for quick meals or casual gatherings, requiring minimal cleanup and effort.
Ingredients
- canned ham (any size)
- favorite sauce (raisin, orange, barbecue, etc.) ⓘ
Instructions
- Remove the key from the canned ham and put it in a safe place.
- Using a church key can opener, punch holes around the top of the can.
- Make 2 holes side-by-side to create larger openings.
- Place the canned ham in a 350°F oven and cook for 30 minutes.
- Remove the can from the oven and carefully pour out the liquid.
- Prepare your favorite sauce.
- Pour the sauce through the holes into the can to nearly fill it.
- Reduce oven temperature to 275°F and continue cooking for 20 minutes per pound of ham.
- Remove from oven, find the key, and open the can.
- Remove the ham from the can, place on a platter, and slice.
- Serve the ham with the sauce.
- Dispose of the can properly.
- No pan to wash!
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful ham, consider marinating it in your favorite sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have a church key can opener, a regular can opener can work as well, but make sure to create sufficient holes for steam to escape. Experiment with different sauces like barbecue or a sweet glaze to enhance the dish. This ham recipe pairs well with classic American recipes for sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham sliced on a platter with the sauce drizzled on top. It pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside dishes from the Pork Chop And Pasta Dinner category, or with a side of sweet potato casserole to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, cover, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed, which helps maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham In A Can contains roughly 3 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of canned ham or even a fresh ham roast if you adjust the cooking times accordingly. Just ensure that you monitor the internal temperature to reach at least 145°F for safety.
What sauces work best with canned ham?
Popular sauces include barbecue, honey mustard, or a sweet and tangy glaze made from orange juice and brown sugar. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to find the perfect match for the ham.
How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?
The ham is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure accuracy. Let it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).