71 BEST Tips How To Cook Ham On The Gas Grill (Full)

How to Cook a Fully Cooked Ham on the Gas Grill

Cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill is a great way to enjoy the tender and juicy meat while adding your own flavor and texture to it.

Grilling is also a convenient method of cooking as it frees up your oven space for other dishes during holidays and special occasions.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill, including preparation, seasoning, temperature control, and serving.

Preparing the Ham

Before cooking the ham, it is essential to prepare it properly to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Remove the ham from its packaging and rinse it under cold water to remove any excess brine or juices.

2. Pat the ham dry with paper towels and place it on a cutting board.

3. Trim off any excess fat if desired, leaving about ¼ inch of fat for flavor and juiciness.

4. Score the surface of the ham with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat.

5. Place the ham in a large roasting pan or aluminum foil tray that can fit on your gas grill.

Seasoning the Ham

Seasoning the ham is an important step to enhance its natural flavor and add your own twist to it. Here are some seasoning options to consider:

• Glazes: Apply a glaze to the ham before cooking to add sweetness, tanginess, or spiciness. Popular glazes include honey mustard, pineapple juice, brown sugar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.

• Rubs: Mix together herbs, spices, and oil to create a rub that can be massaged onto the surface of the ham for added flavor. Good options include garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and olive oil.

• Injecting: Use a meat injector to inject a marinade or liquid seasoning into the ham for deeper flavor and juiciness. Ideal liquids include apple cider, beer, wine, or broth.

Cooking the Ham

Cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill requires careful temperature control to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Preheat the gas grill to medium heat (about 350°F) with all burners turned on.

2. Place the roasting pan or aluminum foil tray containing the ham on the grill grates and close the lid.

3. Cook the ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

4. Baste the ham with the glaze or liquid seasoning every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Check the internal temperature of the ham with a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the meat. Once it reaches 140°F, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Serving the Ham

Serving a fully cooked ham on the gas grill is a great way to impress your guests with your cooking skills. Here are some tips for serving:

• Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.

• Slice the ham against the grain into thin, even pieces using a sharp carving knife or an electric slicer.

• Arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle with any remaining glaze or liquid seasoning for added flavor.

• Serve the ham with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings and avoid undercooked or overcooked meat.

• Adjust the heat on the gas grill as needed to maintain a steady temperature throughout the cooking process.

• Add wood chips or chunks to the gas grill for added smoke flavor, if desired.

• Use a foil tent to cover the ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from drying out or burning.

• Store any leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Choosing the Right Type of Ham

When it comes to cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill, it's important to choose the right type of ham for your recipe. There are several types of hams available, such as bone-in, boneless, spiral-sliced, and pre-cooked. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a ham for grilling:

• Size: Consider the size of your gas grill and the number of guests you're serving when choosing a ham. A bone-in ham is ideal for larger parties, while a boneless ham is better suited for smaller gatherings.

• Flavor: Hams come in different flavors, such as smoked, honey-cured, or maple-glazed. Choose a flavor that complements your seasoning and glaze choices.

• Texture: Some hams have a firmer texture, while others are more tender and juicy. Consider your preference and cooking method when selecting a ham.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Before cooking the ham, it's important to prepare the gas grill properly to ensure optimal heat distribution and temperature control. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Clean the grill grates using a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from previous use.

2. Preheat the grill with all burners turned on high for about 10-15 minutes.

3. Reduce the heat to medium (about 350°F) once the grill has heated up.

4. Place a drip pan filled with water or broth underneath the grill grates to catch any drippings and prevent flare-ups.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is key when cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill. Here are some tips to help you maintain a steady temperature:

• Open the grill lid as little as possible to prevent heat loss and maintain a constant temperature.

• Monitor the internal temperature of the grill using a thermometer to ensure it stays within the desired range.

• Adjust the burners as needed to maintain the desired temperature.

• Use indirect heat by turning off one or more burners and placing the ham on the cooler side of the grill to prevent burning and overcooking.

Safety Precautions

When cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill, it's important to follow some safety precautions to avoid accidents and ensure proper food handling. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling any food.

• Keep raw meat separate from cooked meat to prevent cross-contamination.

• Cook the ham to an internal temperature of 140°F to kill any bacteria or pathogens.

• Use a clean cutting board and knife to slice the ham.

• Discard any leftover ham that has been sitting out for more than two hours.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While grilling is a great way to cook a fully cooked ham, there are other cooking methods you can try for a different flavor and texture. Here are some popular alternative cooking methods:

• Slow Cooker: Place the ham in a slow cooker with your desired seasoning and liquid (such as apple cider or broth) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until heated through.

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F, place the ham in a roasting pan with your desired seasoning and glaze, and cook for 10-15 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

• Smoker: Smoke the ham over wood chips or chunks at a low temperature (about 225°F) for 2-3 hours or until heated through.

Leftover Ham Ideas

If you have leftover ham after grilling, there are many delicious ways to use it up. Here are some ideas:

• Ham sandwiches: Slice the ham thinly and use it as a filling for sandwiches with your favorite toppings and bread.

• Quiches and frittatas: Add diced ham to quiches or frittatas for added protein and flavor.

• Soups and stews: Add diced ham to soups and stews to make them heartier and more flavorful.

• Ham and cheese omelets: Make a delicious omelet by adding diced ham and shredded cheese.

• Pasta dishes: Add diced ham to pasta dishes such as carbonara or mac and cheese for added flavor.

Can I cook a frozen ham on the gas grill?

It's not recommended to cook a frozen ham on the gas grill as it can result in uneven cooking and potential food safety issues. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator or using cold water before grilling.

How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham, which should reach 140°F for fully cooked hams. Insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones or fat.

Can I use wood chips or chunks for added smoke flavor?

Yes, you can add wood chips or chunks to the gas grill for added smoke flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using them on the grill to prevent them from burning too quickly.

How long can I store leftover ham in the refrigerator?

Store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Freeze any leftover ham that you won't be using within that time frame for longer storage.

Additional Resources

If you're looking for more guidance on cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill, here are some additional resources to explore:

• Weber Grills: This website offers tips and recipes for grilling a ham on the gas grill, including glazes, rubs, and temperature control.

• Allrecipes: This website features user-generated recipes and reviews for cooking a ham on the gas grill, as well as helpful videos and step-by-step instructions.

• The Spruce Eats: This website provides detailed instructions on cooking a ham on the gas grill, as well as tips for choosing the right type of ham and seasoning options.

Industry Opinion

Cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. By following the steps above, you can prepare and cook a ham that is juicy, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests.

Remember to choose the right type of ham, season it well, monitor the temperature, and follow safety precautions to ensure a successful and enjoyable grilling experience.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How do I know when the ham is fully cooked?

A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham, which should reach 140°F for fully cooked hams. Insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones or fat.

Q2: Do I need to prepare the ham before grilling it?

A: Yes, it's important to prepare the ham properly before grilling it. Rinse it under cold water, pat it dry, trim off excess fat, score the surface, and apply seasoning as desired.

Q3: What type of ham should I use for grilling?

A: You can use bone-in, boneless, spiral-sliced, or pre-cooked ham for grilling. Choose a size and flavor that suits your recipe and preference.

Q4: Can I cook a frozen ham on the gas grill?

A: It's not recommended to cook a frozen ham on the gas grill as it can result in uneven cooking and potential food safety issues. Thaw the ham in the refrigerator or using cold water before grilling.

Q5: How long should I cook the ham on the gas grill?

A: Cook the ham for about 10-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

Q6: Should I baste the ham while grilling it?

A: Yes, basting the ham with its own juices or glaze every 30 minutes helps keep it moist and flavorful.

Q7: What should I do if the ham starts to burn or char?

A: Move the ham to indirect heat by turning off one or more burners or moving it to a cooler part of the grill. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent further burning.

Q8: Can I use wood chips or chunks for added smoke flavor?

A: Yes, you can add wood chips or chunks to the gas grill for added smoke flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using them on the grill to prevent them from burning too quickly.

Q9: Can I cook a ham on a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill?

A: Yes, you can cook a ham on a charcoal grill using indirect heat and similar seasoning and temperature control methods.

Q10: What glazes are good for ham?

A: Good glazes for ham include honey mustard, pineapple juice, brown sugar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.

Q11: How long should I let the ham rest before slicing it?

A: Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it to allow the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together.

Q12: Can I use a gas smoker to cook a ham?

A: Yes, you can use a gas smoker to cook a ham at a low temperature (about 225°F) for several hours, adding wood chips or chunks for smoke flavor if desired.

Q13: Is it safe to eat pink ham?

A: Yes, fully cooked ham can have a pink color due to the curing process and is safe to eat as long as it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.

Q14: Can I use a spiral-sliced ham for grilling?

A: Yes, you can use a spiral-sliced ham for grilling, but be sure to wrap it in foil to prevent it from drying out.

Q15: What is the best type of ham to use for grilling?

A: The best type of ham to use for grilling depends on your recipe and preference. Bone-in hams are great for larger parties, while boneless hams are better suited for smaller gatherings.

Q16: Can I cook a ham on a pellet grill?

A: Yes, you can cook a ham on a pellet grill using indirect heat and similar seasoning and temperature control methods.

Q17: Can I use a gas grill to cook a fresh ham?

A: Yes, you can use a gas grill to cook a fresh ham, but the cooking time will be longer than for a fully cooked ham.

Q18: Should I wrap the ham in foil while cooking it?

A: You can wrap the ham in foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from drying out or burning.

Q19: How many people will one ham serve?

A: One ham can serve about 15-20 people depending on the size of the ham and the portion size.

Q20: Can I cook a ham on a ceramic grill?

A: Yes, you can cook a ham on a ceramic grill using indirect heat and similar seasoning and temperature control methods.

Q21: Can I double-glaze the ham while grilling it?

A: Yes, you can apply a second layer of glaze halfway through the cooking process

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Conclusion

Cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy this classic dish. By following the steps above, you can prepare and cook a juicy and tender ham that your family and friends will love. Remember to choose the right type of ham, season it well, monitor the temperature and follow safety precautions to ensure a successful and enjoyable cooking experience.

Cooking a fully cooked ham on the gas grill is a great way to add your own twist to this classic dish while freeing up oven space. By following the steps above, you can prepare, season, and cook a juicy and flavorful ham that will impress your guests. Remember to choose the right type of ham, prepare the gas grill properly, monitor the temperature, and follow safety precautions to ensure a successful and enjoyable grilling experience.