Overnight Ham
Tender, smoky ham cooked slowly overnight, resulting in juicy, flavorful slices perfect for holiday feasts or casual gatherings with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the smoked ham (fat side up) in a covered roasting pan or cover with foil.
- Add 7 cups of water to the pan.
- Put the ham in a cold oven and preheat to 500°F.
- When the oven has preheated for 15 minutes, turn it off and leave the ham inside without opening the door. Let it sit for 3 hours.
- Preheat the oven again and cook the ham for an additional 15 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and do not open the door. Leave the ham inside for 7 hours or overnight.
- Remove the ham and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a fully cooked smoked ham to ensure it's tender and flavorful. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, consider glazing the ham with honey or brown sugar before cooking. If you don’t have a roasting pan, a large Dutch oven can work well. Make sure to keep the ham covered during the cooking process to retain moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This overnight ham is delicious served with sides like Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes And Ham or Grandma's Swedish Baked Beans for a hearty meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the ham. For a festive touch, serve it with a tangy mustard or fruit chutney.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, slice the ham and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Ham contains roughly 36 calories, with 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 fully cooked ham, such as a honey-baked or city ham. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of ham you choose, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F for safe consumption.
Is it necessary to preheat the oven before turning it off?
Preheating the oven helps create a consistent cooking environment for the ham. This initial heat allows the ham to start cooking evenly. However, if you're in a pinch, you can skip this step but monitor the cooking time closely.
Can I cook the ham for less time if I'm short on time?
While the longer cooking time helps develop flavor and tenderness, you can cook the ham for a shorter period if necessary. Just ensure it is heated through and reaches the safe internal temperature of 140°F.
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).