How To Cook Costco Ham (with Best Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe)

Last Updated on January 31, 2025 by Karen

Whether you’re cooking a boneless ham or bone-in ham, there are a variety of ways to prepare Costco ham and pair with a brown sugar ham glaze recipe that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Cooking a Costco ham is a great way to create a delicious and memorable meal for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner, Easter dinner, or a special occasion. Costco’s selection of spiral sliced ham and bone-in ham are perfect for feeding a large crowd, and with a few simple steps, you can have a tender, flavorful ham that’s sure to impress.

One of the best ways to elevate the natural taste of Costco ham is by adding a homemade brown sugar glaze that infuses the meat with a sweet and savory flavor. In this post, we’ll show you how to cook Costco ham to perfection, including the best cooking times, temperatures, and a mouthwatering glaze recipe to make your holiday meal unforgettable.

Whether you choose a spiral-cut ham, boneless ham, or a half ham, you’ll have all the tips and tricks you need for a tender, flavorful centerpiece. Let’s dive into the easy steps to prepare your best Costco ham yet!

Types of Costco Ham

Costco offers a variety of ham options, typically under their Kirkland Signature brand, to suit different preferences and cooking needs. Here are the main types of Kirkland ham sold at Costco which can be found in the refrigerated deli section next to the ham product:

Kirkland Signature Spiral Sliced Ham

This is a popular choice, featuring spiral-cut ham that’s easy to slice. It’s often pre-cooked, heats up fast, and comes with a glaze packet. Costco’s spiral ham is the most convenient option for holiday meals in my opinion. We always have one around during the holiday season for easy entertaining.

Kirkland Signature Boneless Ham

For those who prefer a ham without the bone, this boneless version offers a leaner, easy-to-carve option. It’s typically pre-cooked and can be served as-is or with a homemade glaze. In terms of taste, it is not my favorite since it does not have much fat and can be a bit dry if you cook it for too long.

Kirkland Signature Bone-In Ham

This traditional ham with the bone-in provides a fuller flavor and is often the choice for those who want the taste of a classic tender ham. It’s usually larger and can feed more people. I think it is the best ham taste wise, and goes well with a sweet glaze like honey mustard or brown sugar apricot glaze. The cook time is quite long, and you need to check with a meat thermometer or probe thermometer frequently to make sure they don’t get overcooked.

Kirkland Signature Ham (Half Ham)

This is a smaller portion of the bone-in or boneless ham, typically cut in half for a smaller group or meal. It’s perfect for those who don’t need an entire ham. We often get it for a small family dinner, which is an easy way to serve 4-6 hungry people.

Each of these options can be used for a holiday meal, Christmas dinner, or special occasion, and they’re all relatively easy to prepare with various cooking methods, including roasting, slow cooking, or even grilling!

Preparing the Ham

Before you begin cooking your Costco ham, make sure it’s ready for the oven. If your ham is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours prior to cooking. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking ham to ensure even heat distribution.

When it comes to preparing your ham, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Remove the packaging: Unwrap your Costco spiral ham and remove any plastic wrap or glaze packets that might come with it.

Score the ham: Use a sharp knife to score a diamond pattern on the top of the ham. This helps the glaze penetrate the meat for extra flavor.

The Best Way to Cook Costco Ham

There are different ways to cook Costco ham, and you can choose the one that best fits your needs. The most common methods include oven roasting, slow cooking, and using a crock pot. Here’s how to cook Costco ham using each method.

Oven Roasting Method (Best for Bone-in Ham or Spiral Cut Ham)

Ingredients:

• Costco ham (bone-in or boneless)
• Glaze packet (or own glaze)
• Aluminum foil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place your ham in a roasting pan, flat side down. If using bone-in ham, ensure that the thickest part of the ham is facing up.
3. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
4. Cook for minutes of cooking, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for a fully cooked ham. For a spiral cut ham, cook for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound.
5. In the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil, brush your ham with homemade brown sugar glaze or the glaze packet that came with the ham.
6. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow the ham juices to redistribute.

Slow Cooker Method (Great for Boneless Ham)

Ingredients:

• Costco boneless ham
• Glaze of choice
• Crock pot or slow cooker

Instructions:

1. Place your ham in the slow cooker.
2. Apply your glaze (if using a glaze packet, follow the instructions on the package).
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
4. For extra flavor, you can baste the ham with the juices from the slow cooker every 30 minutes.

Instant Pot Method (Great for Half Ham)

Ingredients:

• Costco boneless half ham
• Glaze of choice
• Instant Pot 6 quart (minimum) pressure cooker

Instructions:

1. To cook a Costco ham in an Instant Pot, start by placing the ham on the trivet with a small amount of water in the bottom of the pot.
2. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for about 5-6 minutes per pound of ham.
3. Once cooked, you can create a glaze using ingredients like brown sugar, orange juice, and Dijon mustard.
4. After glazing, broil the ham for a few minutes to achieve a caramelized, crispy top.

Oven Roasting Half Ham

If you’re cooking a half ham (smaller portion, not ideal for lot of people), follow the same roasting instructions as for a full ham but adjust the cooking time. It will typically cook faster, so make sure to check the internal temperature regularly.

How Long to Cook Costco Ham?

The cooking time for a Costco ham depends on whether it’s bone-in or boneless and the cooking method you’re using. Here’s a general guide:

Bone-In Ham:

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Roast for about 18-20 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
• Slow Cooker: If you’re using a slow cooker, cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

Boneless Ham:

• Oven: Preheat to 325°F (163°C). Roast for about 10-12 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 3-4 hours or until it reaches 140°F.

If you’re adding a glaze, apply it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid burning.

Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as this ensures the ham is heated properly and safely.

How to Glaze Your Ham

For the perfect Costco ham, the glaze is essential. Whether you use the pre-packaged glaze or make your own glaze, applying it correctly can make a big difference in flavor.

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Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe

Enjoy your ham with this delicious, sweet, and tangy brown sugar orange juice glaze that will elevate any holiday meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/2 cup orange juice or pineapple juice or 1/4 cup orange marmalade
• 2 tbsps Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsps apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, orange juice, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the brown sugar.
• Let the mixture simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. If you prefer a thicker glaze, continue to simmer for an additional few minutes.
• Once the glaze reaches your desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Season with salt to enhance the flavor.
• Brush the glaze generously over your ham during the last 20-30 minutes of roasting, applying a layer every 10 minutes to build up a beautiful, caramelized crust.
• Once your ham is fully cooked and the glaze is bubbly and golden, remove from the oven and allow the ham to rest before serving.

Resting the Ham

Once your ham is cooked, allow it to rest in the baking dish or cooking vessel for 15-20 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your ham slices tender and flavorful.

Carving and Serving Baked Ham

To carve your spiral-sliced ham, simply follow the natural lines of the cuts. Boneless ham is easier to carve, and you can slice it into even pieces. Serve with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a tart cranberry sauce.

How Do You Store Leftover Ham?

Got too much ham leftover? After the feast, don’t let the leftover ham go to waste! The best part of leftover is that you can use it in all kinds of delicious dishes that call for ham or bacon. You can store the leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. I like to save the leftovers along with the natural juices on the bottom of the pan to keep the meat moist when reheating.

What Are Some Ways To Use Up Leftover Ham?

Leftover ham is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. Here are five creative ideas for using up your leftover ham:

Ham and Cheese Omelet

A ham and cheese omelet is a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. Simply chop up the leftover ham into small pieces and add it to beaten eggs along with your favorite cheese. The savory flavor of the ham adds a rich, meaty depth to the omelet, making it a hearty start to your day.

Ham and Potato Soup

A ham and potato corn chowder is the perfect comforting meal for chilly days. Use leftover ham as the base of the soup, combining it with potatoes, onions, carrots, and a creamy broth. The ham infuses the soup with a smoky, savory flavor, enhancing the overall taste and adding protein to the dish.

Ham Salad Sandwiches

A ham salad sandwich is a simple yet flavorful way to repurpose leftover ham. Chop the ham into small pieces and mix it with mayonnaise, mustard, diced pickles, and some fresh herbs. The ham adds a delightful richness, while the mayo and mustard provide a creamy, tangy contrast.

Ham and Pineapple Pizza

Ham and pineapple pizza (also known as a “Hawaiian pizza”) is a classic combination that balances sweet and savory flavors. Spread a pizza crust with tomato sauce, then top it with leftover ham, pineapple, and cheese. The ham gives the pizza a hearty, meaty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy pineapple.

Ham and Cheese Stuffed Croissants

For a savory snack or appetizer, ham and cheese stuffed croissants are a great choice. Roll up leftover ham and your favorite cheese in a croissant dough, then bake until golden brown and crispy. The ham adds a delicious, salty contrast to the melted cheese and flaky dough, creating a satisfying bite-sized treat.

These ideas not only reduce food waste but also add variety to your meals by showcasing the versatility of leftover ham in different flavor profiles and textures.

What Are Some Good Side Dishes for Costco Ham?

When serving Costco ham, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate the meal. Scalloped potatoes are a classic, creamy choice that balances the richness of the ham, while roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet and earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat.

For a lighter, fresh option, lemon parmesan asparagus offers a crisp, nutty crunch that brightens the plate, while crispy roasted potatoes provide a satisfying, golden side with a savory bite.

Lastly, a tangy cranberry sauce brings a refreshing burst of flavor, cutting through the richness of the ham and offering a delightful contrast. These sides not only enhance the ham’s flavor but also provide variety in textures and tastes, making for a well-rounded and memorable meal.

Can I Freeze Leftover Costco Ham?

Yes, you can definitely freeze leftover Costco ham to enjoy it later! To freeze ham, make sure it’s properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Start by slicing the ham into manageable portions or freezing it whole, depending on how you plan to use it later.

Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to maintain the quality of the ham. Label the bag with the date, and try to use the frozen ham within 1-2 months for the best flavor and texture.

When ready to eat, thaw the ham in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly from frozen in a slow cooker or oven for a quick and easy meal.

With this easy-to-follow guide, cooking your Costco ham will be a breeze, and you’ll impress your family and friends with your spiral ham recipe. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas Eve dinner, Easter dinner, or just enjoying a delicious meal, a Costco spiral ham is sure to be a hit.