How Long To Cook Ham Steak In Oven? A Guide to Perfect Results
Generally, a ham steak cooks in the oven for approximately 15-20 minutes at 325°F (163°C) if it’s fully cooked and just needs reheating. For thicker, uncooked ham steaks, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Understanding Ham Steaks: A Delicious and Versatile Choice
Ham steak, a cross-cut slice from a whole ham, is a wonderfully convenient and flavorful meat option. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a simple dinner, a perfectly cooked ham steak delivers. But achieving that perfect balance of juicy tenderness and delightful flavor requires knowing the proper cooking time and temperature. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to confidently cook ham steak in the oven.
Benefits of Cooking Ham Steak in the Oven
Oven baking offers several advantages over other cooking methods:
- Even Heating: The consistent heat of the oven ensures the ham steak cooks evenly, minimizing the risk of dry or overcooked edges.
- Hands-Off Approach: Once in the oven, you have time to prepare side dishes or relax, unlike pan-frying which requires constant attention.
- Flavor Infusion: The oven is an ideal environment for infusing the ham steak with additional flavors through glazes, sauces, or aromatics.
- Convenience: It’s a simple and straightforward cooking method, ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Essential Steps for Oven-Baked Ham Steak Perfection
Here’s a detailed guide to cooking your ham steak in the oven:
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Prepare the Ham Steak: If desired, score the surface of the ham steak in a diamond pattern. This helps the glaze penetrate and prevents curling.
- Optional Glaze/Sauce: Brush the ham steak with your favorite glaze or sauce. Popular choices include honey mustard, brown sugar, maple syrup, or a simple combination of pineapple juice and ginger.
- Baking Dish: Place the ham steak in a baking dish. Add a small amount of liquid (water, broth, or juice) to the bottom of the dish to help keep the ham moist, especially if the ham is thinner.
- Covering (Optional): For particularly lean ham steaks, covering the dish with foil for the first half of the cooking time can help retain moisture. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes for fully cooked ham steaks, or until heated through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for uncooked ham steaks. Thicker ham steaks will require longer cooking times.
- Rest: Let the ham steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Selecting the Right Ham Steak
When purchasing ham steak, consider the following:
- Thickness: Thicker steaks will take longer to cook. Aim for a thickness of at least ½ inch.
- Appearance: Look for a ham steak with a consistent color and marbling. Avoid steaks with excessive liquid or discoloration.
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Both are delicious, but bone-in ham steaks tend to be more flavorful. Boneless steaks are easier to slice.
- Fully Cooked vs. Uncooked: Fully cooked ham steaks simply need to be reheated. Uncooked ham steaks require cooking to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Overcooking: This is the most common mistake. Use a meat thermometer and avoid cooking the ham steak for too long.
- Drying Out: To prevent dryness, add a small amount of liquid to the baking dish and consider covering the ham steak with foil for part of the cooking time.
- Uneven Cooking: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and rotate the baking dish halfway through cooking.
- Using the Wrong Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can cause the outside of the ham steak to dry out before the inside is heated through.
Delicious Glaze Options for Your Ham Steak
Experiment with different glazes to add flavor and character to your ham steak. Here are a few ideas:
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of apple cider vinegar.
- Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and pineapple juice.
- Maple Glaze: Combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Apricot Glaze: Mix apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.
Temperature is Key: Ensure Food Safety
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham steak reaches a safe internal temperature. For fully cooked ham, aim for a temperature of at least 140°F (60°C) when reheating. For uncooked ham steak, the internal temperature must reach 145°F (63°C).
| Type of Ham | Recommended Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Fully Cooked | 140°F (60°C) |
| Uncooked | 145°F (63°C) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I cook a frozen ham steak in the oven?
While it’s best to thaw ham steak before cooking, you can cook it from frozen. You’ll need to significantly increase the cooking time. Use a low oven temperature (e.g., 275°F) and check the internal temperature frequently with a meat thermometer.
How do I keep my ham steak from drying out in the oven?
To prevent dryness, add a small amount of liquid to the baking dish (water, broth, or juice), and consider covering the ham steak with foil during the first half of the cooking time. Also, avoid overcooking the ham.
What’s the best glaze for a ham steak?
The best glaze is subjective and depends on your taste preferences. Honey mustard, brown sugar, and maple glazes are all popular choices. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!
Can I use a convection oven to cook ham steak?
Yes, you can use a convection oven. Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) and check the ham steak frequently, as it may cook faster than in a conventional oven.
How do I know when my ham steak is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. For fully cooked ham, heat to 140°F (60°C). For uncooked ham steak, the internal temperature must reach 145°F (63°C).
What side dishes go well with ham steak?
Ham steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including scalloped potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, mac and cheese, and coleslaw.
Can I cook ham steak in a cast iron skillet in the oven?
Yes! Using a cast iron skillet can help to create a nice sear on the ham steak. Follow the same cooking times and temperatures as you would with a baking dish.
How long can I store leftover cooked ham steak?
Leftover cooked ham steak can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.
Can I reheat cooked ham steak in the oven?
Yes, you can reheat cooked ham steak in the oven. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and bake until heated through. Add a small amount of liquid to the dish to prevent drying.
Is ham steak a healthy meal option?
Ham steak can be part of a healthy diet, but it’s important to be mindful of sodium content. Choose lower-sodium options and balance your meal with plenty of vegetables and whole grains.
How do I score the ham steak before cooking?
Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the surface of the ham steak. Be careful not to cut too deep.
What kind of ham steak should I buy?
Look for ham steaks that are pink in color, with some marbling. The thickness is up to you, but thicker steaks generally hold their moisture better. Select bone-in or boneless based on your preference.