Got leftover ham? Don't toss it — freeze it! Freezing keeps your ham tasty and ready for anything, from speedy weeknight dinners to show-stopping party appetizers. It's an easy way to cut waste and always have a versatile ingredient on hand.
Keep reading to learn how to freeze ham and stretch its shelf life.
Can you freeze ham?
Yes, you can freeze ham — whether cooked or uncooked — by following proper food safety practices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides these storage guidelines and recommendations for various types of frozen ham:
- Cooked ham: 1–2 months.
- Uncooked ham (uncured): Up to 6 months.
- Cooked ham (uncured): 3–4 months.
- Canned ham (opened): 1–2 months.
- Canned ham (unopened): Do not freeze.
4 best practices for freezing ham
Follow these best practices to keep your frozen ham fresh, flavorful and easy to use:
- Cool completely before freezing: Allow the ham to reach room temperature or fully cool in the refrigerator to maintain quality.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil: Ensure the ham is fully covered to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor.
- Place in an airtight container or freezer bag: This adds an extra layer of protection against moisture loss and odors.
- Label with date and portion size: Clearly marking the ham helps you track storage time and easily grab the right amount when needed.
How to freeze cooked ham: Step-by-step instructions
Discover a guide for freezing leftover cooked ham:
- Step 1: If you plan to freeze cooked ham immediately, allow it to cool completely before preparing it. You can freeze leftover cooked ham as a whole or in slices.
- Step 2: To freeze ham slices, cut the meat into your preferred portions (most recipes call for between 8 and 12 ounces). Using leftovers for soup or salad? Consider dicing the ham into cubes.
- Step 3: Tightly wrap either the whole cooked ham or each ham slice individually using plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure there aren't any gaps left over to avoid freezer burn.
- Step 4: Move your wrapped ham to an airtight container or freezer bag. Tip: Don't forget to label your bags with the date and the measurement of your portion size.
- Step 5: Finally, store the airtight container or bag in your freezer for one to two months.
Ready to get started on your next ham recipe? Head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
How to thaw frozen cooked ham
There are three safe and reliable ways to thaw frozen ham, according to the USDA:
- The refrigerator: It's recommended to thaw ham using the refrigerator, as it's the easiest and safest method. It should take about four to six hours per pound to defrost completely.
- Cold water: Move the portions you plan to use to a sealed, leak-proof bag. Then, submerge it in a bowl of cold tap water, replacing it every 30 minutes. This takes about half an hour per pound.
- The microwave: Microwaving is an option, but not the best method. For ham slices or smaller portions, defrost in 30-second intervals until fully thawed. For larger amounts, place the ham unwrapped on a microwave-safe plate and use the defrost setting (cooking time will vary based on weight).
Remember: Never thaw frozen cooked ham at room temperature. Always stick to one of the USDA's recommended thawing methods above instead.
Frozen ham safety tips and trust signals
Know what to look for in frozen ham to make sure it's safe to eat and tastes its best:
- Check the packaging: Skip any ham with torn or damaged wrapping, since this can lead to contamination or freezer burn.
- Watch for ice crystals: A few small crystals are fine, but heavy buildup may mean the ham has thawed and refrozen, which can impact quality.
- Smell and appearance: Once thawed, ham should have a mild, meaty scent. Discard it if you notice a sour odor, discoloration or slimy texture.
- Rotate your stock (FIFO): When storing multiple packages, use the oldest ones first to keep everything at peak freshness.
For added peace of mind, buy ham from trusted brands or stores and look for USDA inspection labels. These signals help you enjoy frozen ham safely while keeping flavor intact.
How to freeze ham: FAQs
Discover some of the most frequently asked questions when freezing ham:
Can I cook a frozen ham without thawing it?
Cooking frozen ham without thawing isn't generally recommended because of safety and quality concerns. This can lead to undercooking or uneven temperatures within the meat.
Cooking from frozen is feasible, but it often leads to longer cooking times and potentially uneven cooking. To do this, allow at least 1.5 times the usual cooking duration for thawed ham. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to make sure it's reached an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
Can you freeze canned ham?
Canned ham that's been opened can be frozen, but it's best to transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag first. Label with the date and, for optimal quality, use within 1–2 months. Unopened canned ham labeled "keep refrigerated" should not be frozen, but can be stored in the refrigerator for 6–9 months.
Is it better to freeze ham whole or sliced?
While you can freeze ham either way, sliced ham is generally more convenient for portioning. On the other hand, freezing it whole might be a better option if you're looking to maintain presentation or need it for larger uses.
Can I refreeze the ham after use?
Refreezing ham after thawing isn't recommended for safety and quality reasons. Aim to use up your leftovers after the initial thaw to maintain taste and prevent potential health risks.
Perfectly frozen ham starts with superior ingredients
With all of these tips and tricks for freezing ham in mind, remember: the higher the quality of the ham, the better it freezes. Hatfield® stands as a trusted pork provider offering premium, pre-seasoned hams that ensure exceptional taste from the start. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, high-quality pork can elevate the occasion. From Hatfield® Honey Roasted Boneless Ham to Hatfield® Hardwood Smoked Boneless Ham, explore a range of quality ingredients that set the stage for culinary success.
Ready to start your next mealtime adventure with high-quality, flavorful pork? You can head to your local grocery store to pick up your favorite Hatfield® pork products today!
