Is Hormel Corned Beef Hash Precooked? A Complete Guide

Corned beef hash is a hearty and comforting classic, made from tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and spices. The familiar canned version from Hormel Mary Kitchen allows you to enjoy this satisfying dish anytime without lengthy prep. But is Hormel corned beef hash precooked and safe to eat straight from the can?

In this complete guide, we’ll answer all the common questions about Hormel’s corned beef hash, including:

• Is it fully cooked or does it need additional cooking?
• How should you cook it for best results?
• Is it okay to microwave or eat it cold?
• How long does it last after opening?

Read on for everything you need to know about the cooking process and safety of this pantry staple.

An Overview of Hormel Corned Beef Hash

Hormel Mary Kitchen hash is one of the most popular canned versions, made with quality corned beef, potatoes, seasonings and 25% less sodium than regular hash It delivers that classic diner-style flavor in easy homemade meals

The #1 selling corned beef hash in America, Hormel’s product contains hearty cubes of tender beef and potato in a rich gravy. Flavors like onion, garlic and red bell pepper add complexity.

Available in original and reduced sodium varieties, it’s a shelf-stable product that makes a quick protein-packed breakfast or dinner when you don’t have time to cook.

Is Hormel Corned Beef Hash Fully Cooked?

The good news is yes, Hormel’s corned beef hash is fully cooked and ready to eat directly from the can.

This saves you time since no additional cooking is required for food safety However, for best texture and flavor, you’ll want to cook it before eating

Canned hash straight from the can tends to be quite soft and moist. By browning it in a skillet, the beef cubes develop a nice crust and you get warm, crispy bits of potato throughout.

So while safe to eat as-is, cooking it makes a big difference in terms of taste and texture.

Should You Cook Canned Corned Beef Hash?

Cooking canned corned beef hash is highly recommended to improve its flavor and texture, but it’s not strictly necessary from a food safety standpoint.

Here are some reasons why cooking pre-cooked Hormel hash is advisable:

• Browns the exterior: Provides crispy, caramelized edges on the beef and potatoes. Adds texture.

• Reduces moisture: Evaporates some of the liquid, resulting in a less mushy consistency.

• Intensifies flavor: Browing gives a rich, roasted flavor.

• Warms it up: Heating serves it piping hot and aromatic.

While safe at room temperature, warmed corned beef hash is much more satisfying. The cooking process really brings out the flavors.

Tips for Cooking Canned Corned Beef Hash

Follow these tips for great results when cooking Hormel’s corned beef hash:

• Use a heavy skillet or griddle, preferably cast iron or stainless steel. Nonstick doesn’t brown as well.

• Heat the skillet over medium before adding a thin layer of oil or butter.

• Spread the hash in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to brown the bottom.

• Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes, pressing down lightly with a spatula.

• Cook until heated through with crispy browned edges.

• For maximum texture, spread it in a thin, even layer. Thick piles will steam instead of browning.

• Add a fried egg or sprinkle with cheese at the end for extra richness!

Is it Safe to Microwave Canned Corned Beef Hash?

The fully-cooked canned corned beef hash can also be quickly heated in the microwave if you’re really pressed for time.

To microwave Hormel hash:

• Transfer it to a microwave-safe dish.

• Cover loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes, until hot.

• Stir halfway through and break up any large chunks.

• Allow to rest 2 minutes before serving.

While microwaving won’t provide the same crispy texture, it’s a safe method for quickly heating the hash when you need a fast meal.

Can You Eat Canned Corned Beef Hash Cold?

Since canned Hormel hash is pre-cooked, it is technically safe to eat directly from the can without warming it up. However, the texture will be quite mushy and flavors muted when served cold straight from the can.

For the best taste and mouthfeel, we don’t recommended eating canned corned beef hash cold. At least heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

If you want to add cold corned beef hash to a recipe, we suggest heating it first, then chilling it after to allow the flavors to properly develop.

How Long Does Opened Canned Hash Last?

An unopened can of Hormel corned beef hash will keep for 2-5 years in the pantry. Once opened, it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Leftover canned hash will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge in a sealed container. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating to 165°F.

To maximize freshness, plan to finish the can within 3 days. Don’t leave the open can at room temperature or risk spoilage.

Signs Your Corned Beef Hash Has Gone Bad

Watch for these signs that your canned hash has spoiled and should be thrown out:

• Mold growth
• Very unpleasant sour odor
• Bubbles or spurting liquid upon opening
• Discoloration or gray tint
• Drastically different texture or mushiness

When stored and reheated properly, Hormel corned beef hash lasts 3-4 days once opened. Discard if you notice any above signs of spoilage.

Best Ways to Use Canned Corned Beef Hash

Canned hash is delicious on its own for breakfast but it also works in many recipes. Get creative with Hormel’s pre-cooked corned beef hash by:

• Serving over toast, baked potatoes or rice

• Adding to omelets, breakfast tacos or burritos

• Topping waffles or pancakes with a fried egg

• Folding into quiche or frittata

• Layering into potatoes au gratin or shepherd’s pie

• Stuffing into peppers, tomatoes or mushrooms

• Using in hash brown casserole or corned beef bubble up

• Pairing with fried cabbage for an easy one-pan meal

With its hearty protein and flavor, corned beef hash is your new secret ingredient for elevating eggs, potatoes, casseroles and more!

Is Hormel Corned Beef Hash Healthy?

When buying canned foods like hash, look for options clearly marked “reduced sodium” for a healthier choice. Hormel’s reduced sodium hash contains 25% less sodium without compromising on flavor.

Canned hash is also lower in fat and calories than restaurant-style hash. Hormel’s version has 19g fat and 330 calories per serving compared to much higher counts for hash browns and meats fried in a diner.

While processed meats should be eaten in moderation, corned beef hash can provide lean protein as part of a balanced diet. Just watch your portions and sodium intake.

Where to Buy Hormel Mary Kitchen Corned Beef Hash

Look for Hormel Mary Kitchen hash in the canned meat section of major grocery stores such as Walmart, Safeway, Kroger and more. It’s often stocked near other canned chili, stews and meat products.

Hormel corned beef hash is also available from online retailers like Amazon, Instacart and Walmart. Check for promotions on multi-packs.

For the famous diner taste without the work, pick up a few cans of Hormel Mary Kitchen Corned Beef Hash on your next grocery trip!

The Bottom Line

Hormel’s corned beef hash is fully cooked but best when browned in a skillet or heated in the microwave. For food safety, eat refrigerated leftover hash within 3-4 days and reheat thoroughly before serving. Made with quality ingredients, it’s a quick and easy meal with endless recipe potential. Keep a few cans on hand for satisfying comfort food anytime.