Kirkland’s Master Carve Half Ham is a delicious fully cooked ham sold at Costco. With its smoky applewood flavor and lean, tender meat, it makes an easy and tasty meal. But before you can slice and serve this ham, it’s important to properly heat it through first.
Follow this simple guide for step-by-step instructions on heating a Kirkland Master Carve ham to juicy, warm perfection.
Overview of the Master Carve Ham
Let’s start with a quick rundown of what makes the Kirkland Master Carve ham so great:
- Boneless and easy to slice
- Made from lean, quality pork
- Smoked with real applewood for flavor
- Fully cooked so no preparation needed
- Convenient half-ham size (around 4 lbs)
With no bone or waste, you get more meat for your money. The smaller size makes it perfect for feeding smaller groups or repurposing leftovers.
Why You Should Heat the Ham Before Serving
While safe to eat cold, heating the ham improves its texture and amplifies its smoky flavor. Warm ham also feels more appetizing and will blend better with side dishes.
Heating before serving also kills any harmful bacteria that may exist on the exterior. So even though the ham is pre-cooked taking this extra heating step makes it safer for consumption.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Heating Kirkland Ham
Here are simple step-by-step instructions for properly heating your Kirkland Master Carve Half Ham
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This medium-high temperature evenly heats the ham.
2. Remove Packaging
Take the ham out of its plastic packaging. Rinse if desired to remove excess salt. Pat dry.
3. Wrap in Foil
Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil to retain moisture during heating.
4. Place on Baking Sheet
Put the foil-wrapped ham on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish before placing in the oven.
5. Heat for 10-15 Minutes Per Pound
Cook the ham for 10-15 minutes per pound. A 5 lb ham will need 50-75 minutes.
6. Check Internal Temperature
Check temperature periodically until it reaches 130°F internally for safe consumption.
7. Let Rest 10 Minutes
Once fully heated, remove ham from oven and let rest wrapped in foil for 10 minutes before unwrapping.
8. Unwrap and Slice
Unwrap ham, slice into portions, and serve!
And that’s all it takes for deliciously warm, juicy ham straight from your oven!
Tips for Heating Kirkland Hams
-
For added flavor, brush with a glaze 10 minutes before finished.
-
Use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature readings.
-
Letting it rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute.
-
Add a water pan for extra moisture if reheating a fully cooked ham.
-
Reheat leftover ham to 165°F. Don’t reheat more than once.
-
Portion and freeze extras in freezer bags for quick future meals.
With the proper technique, you can easily achieve tender heated ham with an incredible smoky taste.
Common Questions About Heating Ham
What is the best way to reheat ham?
The oven is the best way to evenly reheat ham. Wrap in foil and use 10-15 minutes per pound at 350°F. Always check internal temperature.
Can you heat ham in the slow cooker?
Yes, add 1 cup broth or water per pound of ham. Cook on low 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until heated through.
Is it safe to microwave ham?
Microwaving ham is safe, but it can lead to uneven heating. Heat ham in 30 second intervals until warm, checking frequently.
How long does it take to heat a 10 lb ham?
A 10 lb bone-in ham takes about 2.5-3 hours (15-18 minutes per lb) in a 325°F oven. Boneless takes less time.
Can you eat cold ham without heating?
Fully cooked hams like Kirkland’s are totally safe to eat cold. However, heating improves flavor and texture.
Heating a Kirkland Master Carve Ham is simple with this straightforward guide. Just remember to use a thermometer for doneness and let it rest before serving. Enjoy your juicy Costco ham!
Quick & Easy: Kirkland Signature Master Carve Ham 2-Ways
FAQ
How do you heat a fully cooked Kirkland ham?
How do you heat up a precooked ham without drying it out?
How do you cook a Kirkland Master carve half Ham?
To heat a Kirkland Master Carve Half Ham, preheat your oven to 325°F and place the ham in an uncovered roasting pan. Place 1 cup of water into the bottom of the pan to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20 minutes per pound or until a food thermometer registers 140°F when inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
Can you cook Kirkland Master carve Ham at Costco?
The Kirkland Signature Master Carve Ham at Costco is fully cooked, and you can warm it up in the oven. See the complete instructions for details, but we suggest heating a lower temperature, covered, with juices to retain moisture. Don’t overheat or it can dry out. All opinions expressed on CostContessa are our own.
How much does a Kirkland Master carve half ham cost?
The Kirkland Signature Master Carve Half Ham is Costco item number 46655 and costs $2.99 per pound. Pieces ranged from 4-6 lbs. or about $13-$18 per each piece.
Can you freeze Kirkland Master carve Ham?
Yes, you can freeze Kirkland Master Carve Ham. Since it’s vacuum-sealed, it’s freezer-ready. FoodSafety.Gov suggests the ham lasts 1-2 months frozen, although our experience is that it lasts much longer. The best way to thaw a Costco Master Carve Ham is in the refrigerator. We’ve done this, and it took three days, so plan ahead.