Can You Freeze Leftover Ham from Thanksgiving? Don’t Waste That Turkey Day Treat!
What To Know
- Place the ham in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water.
- Add a splash of water or broth and place the ham in the skillet.
- Use chopped ham as a filling in a quiche, along with cheese, eggs, and vegetables.
Thanksgiving, a time for family, feasts, and leftover ham. But what happens when you’re faced with more ham than you can consume in a single sitting? Can you freeze leftover ham from Thanksgiving and enjoy it later? The answer is a resounding yes! Freezing ham is an excellent way to preserve its flavor and extend its shelf life. Here’s how to do it right.
How to Freeze Leftover Ham
1. Cool the Ham: Before freezing, allow the ham to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents ice crystals from forming and compromising the ham’s texture.
2. Remove Bones and Fat: If possible, remove the ham from the bone and trim away excess fat. This will make it easier to store and thaw the ham.
3. Wrap the Ham: Wrap the ham tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain. This will prevent freezer burn.
4. Double-Wrap: For extra protection, place the foil-wrapped ham inside a freezer-safe bag or container.
5. Label and Freeze: Label the package with the date and contents. Freeze the ham at 0°F or below for up to 2 months.
Thawing Frozen Ham
1. Refrigerate Overnight: The safest way to thaw frozen ham is in the refrigerator overnight. Allow about 12 hours for every 5 pounds of ham.
2. Microwave Thawing: If you’re short on time, you can thaw the ham in the microwave using the defrost setting. However, this method may result in uneven thawing.
3. Cold Water Thawing: Place the ham in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the ham is thawed.
Tips for Freezing Ham
- Freeze in Smaller Portions: Divide the ham into smaller portions before freezing to make it easier to thaw and use.
- Use Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Vacuum-sealing the ham removes all the air, preventing freezer burn and extending its shelf life even further.
- Freeze Sliced Ham: If you prefer, you can slice the ham before freezing it. This will save you time when you’re ready to serve it.
- Freeze with Glaze: If you have glazed ham, freeze it with the glaze on. The glaze will help protect the ham from freezer burn.
Reheating Frozen Ham
Once the ham is thawed, it’s time to reheat it. Here are a few methods:
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Place the ham on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Microwave: Place the ham in a microwave-safe dish and heat on low power for 5-7 minutes per pound.
- Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and place the ham in the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes per side, or until heated through.
Other Ways to Use Leftover Ham
If you’re tired of eating ham sandwiches, here are some creative ways to use leftover ham:
- Ham and Bean Soup: Add diced ham to your favorite bean soup recipe for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Ham and Cheese Quiche: Use chopped ham as a filling in a quiche, along with cheese, eggs, and vegetables.
- Ham and Potato Hash: Combine diced ham, potatoes, and onions in a skillet for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
- Ham and Pasta Salad: Add ham to your favorite pasta salad recipe for a protein-packed side dish.
- Ham and Egg Breakfast Burritos: Scramble eggs with diced ham and cheese, and wrap them in tortillas for a quick and easy breakfast.
Final Note
Freezing leftover ham from Thanksgiving is a smart way to preserve its flavor and enjoy it later. By following these simple steps, you can extend the life of your ham and savor its deliciousness all season long. So, go ahead, indulge in that extra slice of ham knowing that you can freeze the rest for future culinary adventures.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How long can I freeze leftover ham?
A: Up to 2 months at 0°F or below.
Q: Can I freeze ham with the bone in?
A: Yes, but it’s easier to freeze the ham off the bone.
Q: How do I know if frozen ham is bad?
A: Look for signs of freezer burn (white or gray spots) or an off odor.
Q: Can I freeze ham that has been glazed?
A: Yes, freeze ham with the glaze on to protect it from freezer burn.
Q: What are some creative ways to use leftover ham?
A: Ham and bean soup, ham and cheese quiche, ham and potato hash, ham and pasta salad, and ham and egg breakfast burritos.