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5 Best Leftover Holiday Ham Recipes
By: Snake River Farms
Stories
5 Best Leftover Holiday Ham Recipes
By: Snake River Farms
5 Best Leftover Holiday Ham Recipes
The holidays are a wonderful time for family, friends, and of course, exceptional food. But if you’re like most of us, you may end up with more ham than anyone can eat in one sitting. That’s where Kurobuta pork shines. Thanks to its marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor, leftover Kurobuta ham doesn’t just keep well—it transforms into new, delicious meals.
Whether you’re wondering what to do with leftover ham or looking for creative ways to reinvent your holiday centerpiece, these 5 best leftover Kurobuta ham recipes will inspire you.
Why Kurobuta Ham Makes the Best Leftovers
Kurobuta ham isn’t like ordinary pork. Its deep color, fine marbling, and succulent fat mean that even reheated or repurposed, it tastes luxurious. From breakfast to dinner, you can take your holiday ham beyond the main table.
Chef Kris Komori puts it best: “Snake River Farms Kurobuta stands alone in the pork world. The color is deep and vibrant and the fat, amazingly succulent and complex.” Even in leftover form, it maintains that same richness and flavor.
1. Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
Start your day with a comforting breakfast or brunch that feels indulgent but comes together in a snap. This ham and cheese croissant bake layers buttery croissants with diced Kurobuta ham and melty cheese, then bakes it into a golden, fluffy casserole. Perfect for leftover breakfast gatherings or a weekend treat.
Make Ham And Cheese Breakfast Bake
2. Sheet Pan Kurobuta Ham & Sweet Potato Hash
Turn holiday leftovers into a hearty, one-pan meal. Diced Kurobuta ham, roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and peppers come together in this flavorful sheet pan hash. Serve it with eggs for breakfast, or enjoy it as a simple dinner. Cleanup is minimal, and the taste is maximal.
Make the Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
3. Leftover Kurobuta Ham Eggs Benedict with Blender Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch with a classic done right. Kurobuta ham provides the perfect salty balance to rich, creamy hollandaise sauce. Quick tips: use your leftover ham in place of traditional Canadian bacon, and make the hollandaise in a blender for a foolproof, silky finish.
Make Leftover Kurobuta Ham Eggs Benedict
4. Kurobuta Ham & White Bean Soup
Comfort in a bowl. This soup combines tender Kurobuta ham with hearty white beans, aromatic herbs, and vegetables. It’s easy to make, freezes beautifully, and transforms simple leftovers into a wholesome weeknight meal. A perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor.
Make Leftover Kurobuta Ham and White Bean Soup
5. Hawaiian Bun Kurobuta Ham Sliders
These sliders are sweet, savory, and portable. Layer Kurobuta ham with melted cheese and your favorite condiments on soft Hawaiian buns for a meal that disappears fast. Ideal for casual family dinners or holiday gatherings where everyone loves a bite-sized treat.
Make Hawaiian Bun Kurobuta Ham Sliders
Shop Our Kurobuta Hams
Enjoy Kurobuta ham any time of year—perfect for holiday feasts or transforming into these leftover recipes.
Bone-In Half Ham
Richly flavored and tender, our bone-in hams make a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday meal.
Shop Bone-In Half Ham →
Whole Bone-In Ham
Perfect for large gatherings, this classic bone-in ham delivers juicy, flavorful pork every time.
Shop Whole Bone-In Ham →
Whole Boneless Ham
Easy to slice and serve, our boneless ham is tender, flavorful, and versatile for meals or leftovers.
Shop Whole Boneless Ham →
Half Boneless Ham
Smaller but equally flavorful, this half ham is ideal for holiday dinners or weeknight meals.
Shop Half Boneless Ham →
Read More
Smoked Bone-in Ham with Honey Chipotle Glaze
By: Snake River Farms
Apple and Brown Sugar Glazed Hasselback Half Ham
By: Chef Mandy Tanner
Hot Honey Glazed Kurobuta Ham with Scalloped Potatoes
By: Nathan Michael & Julia Flowers
Ham & Cheese Croissant Breakfast Bake
By: Snake River Farms
Brown Sugar Balsamic Glaze Ham
By: Rocco Gizzo
The Best Ham for Thanksgiving: Make Your Holiday Table Unforgettable
By: Snake River Farms
Stories
The Best Ham for Thanksgiving: Make Your Holiday Table Unforgettable
By: Snake River Farms
The Best Ham for Thanksgiving
Turkey may be traditional, but we’ve found that nothing elevates a Thanksgiving table quite like a perfectly prepared Kurobuta ham. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and impressive presentation, ham has a way of turning a holiday meal into something extraordinary.At Snake River Farms, we believe the best ham for Thanksgiving should do more than feed your guests. It should create an experience they’ll remember. That’s why we turn to Kurobuta, a heritage breed ham known for its exceptional marbling, natural sweetness, and deep flavor.In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right ham for your gathering, why it deserves a place alongside turkey, and share our favorite brown sugar glaze recipe to make your holiday centerpiece shine.Ready to find your centerpiece? Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Ham and bring home the best ham for Thanksgiving.
Why Ham Deserves a Spot on Your Thanksgiving Table
We love turkey, but the best ham for Thanksgiving brings something different to the table. Kurobuta ham pairs beautifully with classic sides and can even share the spotlight with turkey or prime rib. For many families, it has become the star of the meal all on its own.Here’s why we think ham belongs on every holiday menu:
It complements or stands alone. A glazed ham sits perfectly alongside roasted turkey or beef. Or let it shine solo as your main centerpiece.
Sweet and smoky flavor appeals to a crowd. Kurobuta ham’s rich marbling and hardwood smoking deliver a depth of flavor that guests look forward to year after year.
The leftovers are legendary. Holiday ham makes incredible next-day meals. From hearty sandwiches to soups and breakfast dishes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. See our favorite leftover ham ideas.
Looking for inspiration on what to do with your leftover ham? Watch this quick video for ideas you can put to use the very next day:
How Much Ham Do You Need Per Guest?
One of the most common questions we hear is how much ham to order for Thanksgiving. The right amount depends on the size of your gathering, whether you’re serving ham as the main course or alongside turkey, and how much you want left over for the days ahead.As a general rule, we recommend planning for 8 to 12 ounces of ham per person. This ensures generous holiday portions without running short. If your guests love hearty servings or you want to guarantee plenty of leftovers for sandwiches, casseroles, or breakfast hash, plan toward the higher end.Here’s a quick breakdown to make it easier:
Ham Size
Avg. Weight
Servings
Cook Time
Internal Temp.
Half Boneless
3.5 lbs.
5 – 9
1.25 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Whole Boneless
7 lbs.
10 – 12
1.5 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Small
6 lbs.
8 – 10
1.5 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Large
8 lbs.
10 – 12
1.75 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Whole Bone-In, Large
16 lbs.
18 – 22
3.5 to 4 hrs.
140°F
Pro Tip: Planning ahead makes all the difference. The best ham for Thanksgiving is the one that not only looks beautiful on your table but also feeds your crowd with ease.
Choosing the Right Ham for Your Table
When it comes to finding the best ham for Thanksgiving, quality matters just as much as size. The right ham should be flavorful, easy to prepare, and impressive enough to stand as your holiday centerpiece. At Snake River Farms, we make it simple by offering Kurobuta hams in a variety of sizes and styles to fit every table.
Shop our full selection of Kurobuta hams and choose the perfect one for your celebration.
Features to Look for in a Holiday Ham
Heritage breed quality. Kurobuta, our Berkshire pork, is renowned worldwide for its rich, signature flavor.
High marbling and tenderness. The natural intramuscular fat creates a juicy, tender bite every time.
Classic holiday appearance. Each ham is traditionally crafted, pre-smoked over real hardwood, and ready for your favorite glaze recipe to finish with that iconic glossy look.
Learn How to Cook Your Ham to Perfection
Choosing the right ham is just the first step. The real magic happens when it’s prepared the right way. From thawing and scoring to glazing and carving, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions. Explore our Guide: How to Cook a Ham to ensure your Thanksgiving centerpiece comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Which Ham Should You Order?
The right ham depends on the size of your gathering or if you’re just cooking for yourself. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best ham for Thanksgiving:
Whole Bone-In Ham
Best for big holiday gatherings. Feeds a crowd and makes an impressive centerpiece.
Shop Whole Bone-In Ham →
Bone-In Half Ham
Ideal for medium-sized gatherings. Still offers the classic bone-in presentation.
Shop Bone-In Half Ham →
Whole Boneless Ham
Convenient and easy to carve. Perfect for buffets or when you want ready-to-slice portions.
Shop Whole Boneless Ham →
Half Boneless Ham
Ideal for smaller households or individuals. Easy to carve, no waste, and perfect for leftovers.
Shop Half Boneless Ham →
Brown Sugar Glaze: A Perfect Recipe for Thanksgiving
The best ham for Thanksgiving deserves a glaze that enhances its natural flavor without overpowering it. Our go-to is a simple brown sugar glaze that adds a glossy finish and a touch of caramel sweetness.
Quick Brown Sugar Glaze
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Stir ingredients together until smooth, then brush over your warmed ham during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. The result is a sweet, sticky crust that pairs beautifully with the smoky richness of Kurobuta ham.Want to switch it up? Try these variations:
Add maple syrup for extra depth
Stir in a little orange zest for brightness
Mix in honey or ginger for a spiced twist
For more inspiration, explore our full collection of ham glaze recipes.
Want to see a stunning holiday glaze in action? Watch our Glazed Ham Recipe featuring a Honey Chai Glaze with a whipped mascarpone twist. This simple but unforgettable recipe shows how the right glaze takes your Thanksgiving ham from delicious to extraordinary. Or, check out the full written recipe here for exact ingredients and directions.
What to Serve with Your Holiday Ham
A holiday ham is delicious on its own, but the sides and pairings you choose can elevate the entire meal. The best ham for Thanksgiving shines brightest when served with dishes that balance its sweet and smoky flavor profile.Classic side ideas for your Kurobuta ham:
Creamy mashed potatoes with a touch of butter and chives
Savory stuffing made with fresh herbs and toasted bread
Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes
Cranberry sauce for a bright, tart contrast
Pairing tips:
Choose sides that balance sweet and savory. Ham has a natural richness that pairs well with tangy, acidic, or herb-driven flavors.
Include something fresh or green, like a crisp salad or roasted greens, to keep the meal balanced.
Optional drink pairings:
A light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the ham’s smoky-sweet notes without overpowering it.
Sparkling cider (hard or non-alcoholic) adds a festive touch and a refreshing balance to each bite.
With the right pairings, your Thanksgiving ham becomes more than just a main dish, it becomes the centerpiece of a truly memorable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Ham
What type of ham is best for Thanksgiving?
A smoked, fully cooked ham is easiest for holiday prep and delivers big flavor. Bone-in or boneless both work, but Kurobuta ham offers richer marbling and tenderness that make it stand out on the table.
Bone-in or boneless, which is better?
Bone-in hams bring a classic look and deeper flavor, plus you can use the leftover bone for soups or beans. Boneless hams are easier to carve and perfect for sandwiches or buffets. Choose based on how you plan to serve.
How many guests will a 20 lb ham feed?
A 20 lb ham will serve about 30 to 35 guests. Plan on 8 to 12 ounces per person for bone-in ham, or 5 to 8 ounces per person for boneless. For smaller gatherings, check our Ham Size Guide to match the right cut to your guest list.
Should ham come to room temperature before serving?
Let your ham sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before reheating. This helps it warm evenly without drying out. Always use a meat thermometer and heat to an internal temperature of 140°F before serving.
Why Kurobuta Ham is the Ultimate Thanksgiving Choice
When it comes to creating a Thanksgiving centerpiece that everyone remembers, our Kurobuta ham delivers every time.
Rich flavor from heritage breed porkWe use 100% Berkshire (Kurobuta) pork, known worldwide for its deep, complex flavor.
Tender, juicy texture with beautiful marblingThe natural marbling ensures every slice stays moist, tender, and delicious from the first bite to the last.
Reliable, premium quality for holiday entertainingFully cooked, hardwood-smoked, and ready to glaze, our hams make it easy to serve a show-stopping main course without the stress.
Make this holiday unforgettable: shop Kurobuta hams now.
Elevate Your Thanksgiving This Year
A Kurobuta ham is more than a main course—it’s a centerpiece that brings people together. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and effortless preparation, it’s the perfect way to make your holiday table unforgettable.Planning ahead is key. Our hams ship frozen and keep beautifully in your freezer for up to six months, so you can order early and check one big thing off your holiday list.Order your Thanksgiving centerpiece today: Shop Kurobuta Ham.
Explore More Holiday Inspiration
Planning your Thanksgiving table is just the beginning. Take a look at our other holiday entertaining guides and ideas:
Alternatives to Turkey for the Holidays
The Complete Holiday Meal: Ham
Master the Moment – Make the Most of the Holidays
How to Prepare the Perfect Easter Ham Dinner
Holiday Entertaining Guide – The Easiest Holiday Party Ever
Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board
The Perfect Christmas Ham
Read More
The Best Cooking Temperature for Juicy, Flavorful Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Stories
The Best Cooking Temperature for Juicy, Flavorful Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Best Cooking Temp for Juicy, Flavorful Ham
Few things make a gathering feel special like carving into a beautiful ham, perfectly heated and ready to serve.
At Snake River Farms, our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked, which means the secret to success is simple, bring your ham to the right finishing temp for tender, juicy results every time.In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key ham temps for cooking and glazing, plus thawing tips and reheating guidelines so you can serve your ham with confidence.
Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Hams.
Quick Ham Temp Cheat Sheet
Thawing: Fridge method (1–4 days depending on size)
Cooking Temp: 140°F internal
Add Glaze: ~120°F internal
Reheat Leftovers: 165°F internal
Why Thawing Matters Before Cooking
Thawing is about even heating, not hitting a specific temperature. When your ham is fully thawed, it warms through evenly without drying out.
Best method: Thaw slowly in the refrigerator.
Quick option: Submerge the sealed ham in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Plan ahead: Large hams can take several days to thaw completely.
Thawing Time by Ham Size:
Ham Size
Avg. Weight
Time to Defrost
Half Boneless
3.5 lbs.
1 to 2 Days
Whole Boneless
7 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Half Bone-In, Small
6 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Half Bone-In, Large
8 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Whole Bone-In
16 lbs.
3 to 4 Days
Quick Thaw Method
Sometimes plans change, and you need your ham thawed faster. We recommend using a cool water bath only in emergencies.
For detailed instructions on thawing large cuts and hams safely, including timing tips for different sizes, check out our full guide: How to Thaw Large Cuts, Roasts, and Hams.Pro Tip: Always allow extra time, better to be thawed early than still frozen on serving day.
Watch our step-by-step video on properly thawing and handling large hams for best results: Thawing SRF Roasts and Hams Tips & Tricks.
Target Internal Temperature for Ham
The magic number? An internal temperature of 140°F.Because our Kurobuta hams come fully cooked, your goal isn’t to cook them again but to reheat gently so every slice stays moist, tender, and flavorful.
Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy.
Check the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone for the most accurate reading.
Remove the ham from the oven just before 140°F—the temperature will rise slightly as it rests.
Get the Gear: Shop our Superfast Thermometer.
Ham Size
Cook Time
Internal Temp.
Half Boneless
1.25 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Whole Boneless
1.5 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Small
1.5 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Large
1.75 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Whole Bone-In, Large
3.5 to 4 hrs.
140°F
For a visual guide and step-by-step tips, watch our video on how to prepare a Snake River Farms Kurobuta ham.
The Best Ham Temperature for Adding Glaze
For a caramelized, glossy finish, the sweet spot is glazing your ham when it reaches an internal temperature of about 120°F. This allows enough time for the glaze to set without overcooking the meat.
Apply glaze during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking.
This timing lets the sugars bubble and set without burning.
For extra layers of flavor, you can reapply glaze once or twice as the ham finishes cooking.
Glaze Ideas to Try:
Classic Brown Sugar & Mustad Glaze
Maple bourbon Glaze
Honey Chai Spiced Glaze
Orange and Bourbon Glaze
Target Internal Temperature for Ham Leftovers
We recommend heating our fully cooked Kurobuta hams to an internal temperature of 140°F before serving. That’s your target for the main event.
When it comes to leftovers, the rules shift a little:
Reheat slices or chunks to 165°F internal to ensure food safety.
Use a gentle oven reheat or cover with foil to prevent drying.
Explore: More leftover ham recipes.
Final Tips for Perfect Ham
When it comes to serving the perfect ham, a few small steps make all the difference.
Thaw completely before cooking for even, consistent heating.
Stop at 140°F internal temp for juicy, tender results.
Add glaze during the last 20 to 30 minutes so it caramelizes beautifully without burning.
Always use a fast, accurate thermometer for precision.
For step-by-step instructions on preparation, scoring, glazing, and reheating, check out our Guide: How to Cook a Ham to ensure your holiday ham is flawless.With the right ham temp, you’ll serve a centerpiece that’s worthy of every holiday table — flavorful, perfectly heated, and ready for seconds. Perfect for Easter brunch, Christmas dinner, or a cozy Sunday supper any time of year.
Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Hams.
Read More
How to Smoke a Ham: Step-by-Step Guide
By: Snake River Farms
Cooking Guides
How to Smoke a Ham: Step-by-Step Guide
By: Snake River Farms
How to Smoke a Ham
Few things rival the rich aroma and bold flavor of a perfectly smoked ham.At Snake River Farms, all of our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked and smoked over real hardwood, which means you’re starting with incredible flavor from the very first slice. But here’s the secret: giving your ham a second trip through the smoker at home adds a “double-smoke” depth and lets you finish it with a glaze that makes it unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to smoke a ham step by step. We’ll cover how long to smoke a ham (and specifically how long to smoke a pre-cooked ham), plus share glaze inspiration like our favorite smoked ham with brown sugar glaze. We’ll also show you why beginning with a Snake River Farms Kurobuta ham guarantees unmatched flavor, tenderness, and presentation.
Before you get started, you might want to explore a few additional resources to prep your ham like a pro:
Explore More Ham Prep Guides:
How to Cook a Ham
How to Prepare the Perfect Easter Ham Dinner
The Perfect Christmas Ham
The Complete Holiday Meal: Ham Edition
Why Start with Kurobuta Ham?
Not all hams are created equal. When you’re taking the time to double-smoke and glaze a centerpiece for your table, the quality of the ham matters just as much as the method. That’s where our Kurobuta ham stands apart.
Heritage Breed Excellence - Made from 100% Berkshire hogs — known as Kurobuta in Japan — this heritage pork is celebrated for its deep color, fine-grained texture, and beautiful marbling.
Flavor Advantage - Kurobuta pork is naturally tender, juicy, and flavorful. Each ham carries a subtle sweetness and a touch of smoke from the hardwood smoking process that we build upon when you finish it in your smoker at home.
Traditional Craft - Every ham is cured with our signature family recipe, then smoked over real hardwood. This time-honored approach gives it an unmistakable flavor and quality.
Options for Every Table - Choose bone-in for a traditional centerpiece and the bonus of flavor-packed leftovers, or go with boneless for easier carving and serving. We offer both whole and half hams so you can select the right size for your gathering.
Trusted Quality - Our hams are consistently praised by professional chefs, BBQ competitors, and home cooks for their tenderness, presentation, and bold flavor.
Sustainably Raised - We partner with small family farms where Berkshire hogs are humanely cared for, never treated with hormones, and raised on a slow-feed program that enhances both flavor and quality.
When you choose Kurobuta pork, your smoked ham will stand out — rich in flavor, tender in texture, and unforgettable at the table.
Learn more about what makes our hams truly special and why Kurobuta pork is unlike any other. Read the full guide here.
Snake River Farms Kurobuta stands alone in the pork world. The color is deep and vibrant and the fat, amazingly succulent and complex.
-Chef Kris Komori - James Beard Semi-Finalist
How Much Ham Per Person & Cooking Times
Before you heat your ham, it’s helpful to know how much to serve and how long it will take. Even though our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked, warming them properly ensures they stay juicy, tender, and flavorful. Use the guide below to plan servings and heating times for any size ham.
Ham Size and Servings Recommendations: Plan for at least 8 ounces per person. If you want leftovers or are serving hearty eaters, aim for 12 ounces per person.
Ham Size
Avg. Weight
Servings
Cook Time
Internal Temp.
Half Boneless
3.5 lbs.
5 – 9
1.25 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Whole Boneless
7 lbs.
10 – 12
1.5 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Small
6 lbs.
8 – 10
1.5 to 2 hrs.
140°F
Half Bone-In, Large
8 lbs.
10 – 12
1.75 to 2.5 hrs.
140°F
Whole Bone-In, Large
16 lbs.
18 – 22
3.5 to 4 hrs.
140°F
Ham Cooking Guidance
All our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked, so heating times are shorter than for raw hams. Keep these tips in mind:
Target 140°F internal temperature at the thickest part of the ham.
Check several spots, especially for bone-in hams, to ensure even heating.
Avoid overheating — higher temperatures can reduce moisture and tenderness.
Shop for your perfect Kurobuta ham today and make your next meal unforgettable.
What You’ll Need to Smoke a Ham
Even though our Kurobuta hams arrive fully cooked and pre-smoked, having the right tools and ingredients ensures your finishing process adds maximum flavor and presentation appeal. Here’s what we recommend.
Smoker - A charcoal, pellet, wood-fired, or electric smoker works perfectly for finishing your ham. Set it low and slow to gently warm the ham and enhance the smoky flavor without drying it out.
Wood Chips or Chunks - We suggest apple, cherry, or hickory wood to complement the natural sweetness of our Kurobuta ham. These fruit and hardwood options create a delicate layer of smoke that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the flavor.Pro Tip: If you’re using an electric smoker, add a handful of apple or cherry wood chips to the smoker box. This gives your Kurobuta ham that extra layer of flavor you’d expect from a traditional smoker, without any extra effort.
Meat Thermometer - Even though the ham is fully cooked, a meat thermometer is essential to monitor internal temperature and avoid overcooking. We aim for a warm, juicy ham without drying the edges.Make it easy with our SuperFast Thermometer for quick, accurate readings every time.
Glaze Ingredients - Finishing your ham with a glaze adds both flavor and visual appeal. Popular options include:
Brown sugar
Maple syrup
Honey
Mustard
For inspiration, check out our Bourbon Orange Glazed Kurobuta Ham recipe — a perfect example of a sweet, savory glaze that enhances the natural richness of our ham.
Roasting Pan & Aluminum Foil - Use a roasting pan to transport your ham safely to and from the smoker. Aluminum foil is great for loosely covering the ham while it rests, keeping it moist and allowing the glaze to set.
Optional Extras - For presentation and serving, consider keeping these on hand:
Basting brush
Carving knife
Cutting board
Apron
Ready to master your smoked ham? Learn more about choosing the perfect smoker and gift-worthy options for meat lovers in our guides: An Expert's Guide to Smokers and The Ultimate Gift Guide for Meat Smokers.
Preparing Your Kurobuta Ham
A little prep goes a long way to ensure your ham heats evenly and your glaze sets perfectly. Taking the time to thaw, temper, and (optionally) score the surface sets the stage for a beautiful finish. These simple steps not only enhance flavor and texture but also guarantee your Kurobuta ham makes a show-stopping centerpiece.
Thaw the Ham Properly
Plan ahead for the best results. Fully thaw your ham in the refrigerator — larger hams can take several days. Use the guide below to estimate thawing time based on size:
Ham Size
Avg. Weight
Time to Defrost
Half Boneless
3.5 lbs.
1 to 2 Days
Whole Boneless
7 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Half Bone-In, Small
6 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Half Bone-In, Large
8 lbs.
2 to 3 Days
Whole Bone-In
16 lbs.
3 to 4 Days
Quick Thaw Method
Sometimes plans change, and you need your ham thawed faster. We recommend using a cool water bath only in emergencies.
For detailed instructions on thawing large cuts and hams safely, including timing tips for different sizes, check out our full guide: How to Thaw Large Cuts, Roasts, and Hams.
Watch our step-by-step video on properly thawing and handling large hams for best results: Thawing SRF Roasts and Hams Tips & Tricks.
Score the Surface (Optional)
Scoring the ham creates shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. This step:
Allows glazes to penetrate deeper
Adds a professional, attractive presentation
Select Your Glaze or Rub
Choose a glaze that complements the natural sweetness of Kurobuta pork. Options include:
Sweet (brown sugar, honey, maple)
Savory (mustard, spice rubs)
Balanced combinations (chef-inspired blends)
For inspiration and step-by-step tips on finishing your ham with the perfect glaze, check out our Ham Glaze Guide.
Position the Ham for Smoking
Place the ham fat side up on the smoker rack. This allows the natural juices to baste the meat as it warms, keeping it tender and flavorful.
Pro Tip: Lightly pat the ham dry before applying glaze. This helps the glaze adhere better and develop a beautiful, caramelized finish during smoking.
The Wagyu of Hams! Delicious Ham, not too salty, very tender. I have a family of foodies and they were very impressed with the quality of the ham, the size and the presentation. We followed a recipe (twice smoked ham) on the Snake River Farms website and it was spectacular.
- Nancy A., Verified Buyer
How to Smoke a Ham (Step-by-Step)
Even though our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked, finishing them in the smoker adds a subtle “double-smoke” flavor that makes them unforgettable. Whether you choose to glaze it or enjoy it plain, the ham will be juicy, tender, and full of rich, savory flavor. Follow these steps for beautifully warmed and flavorful results.
Steps:
Preheat the SmokerSet your smoker to 225 to 250°F for low-and-slow warming.
Place the Ham on the SmokerPosition the ham fat side up on the smoker rack, ensuring proper airflow around the meat for even warming.
Monitor Internal TemperatureWarm the ham until it reaches 135°F at the thickest part. Because it’s already fully cooked, this ensures it’s heated through without drying out.
Apply the Glaze (Optional)Brush the ham evenly with your chosen glaze. Cover and smoke for 5 minutes to set the first layer. Repeat until the glaze is fully absorbed or the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Rest the HamRemove from the smoker and let it rest loosely covered with foil for 15–20 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Pro Tips:
Keep a water pan in the smoker to maintain moisture.
Use mild fruit woods like apple or cherry to complement the ham’s natural sweetness.
Save the bone for soups or stews — it adds rich flavor to stocks and sauces.
For leftover ideas, check out our Leftover Kurobuta Ham Recipes.
Easy to handle as far as prepping it; the size I purchased was awesome for the crowd with plenty of leftovers. Flavor and texture are amazing. Never did I have a smoked ham this delicious. It was flavorful and juicy. I admire the quality of the product. It’s easy to tell that it’s a cut of meat that had been handled properly and with respect of the animal. The cook is, again, super easy. The ham comes with a instruction booklet. So that is very helpful.
- Rebecca M., Verified Buyer
The Benefits of Smoking a Kurobuta Ham
Finishing a fully cooked Kurobuta ham in the smoker adds extra flavor and depth, creating a tender, juicy centerpiece that stands out at any meal.
Unmatched Flavor - Our Kurobuta hams are naturally tender, juicy, and packed with rich, smoky-sweet flavor. Finishing them in the smoker adds another layer of depth, creating a centerpiece your family and friends will remember.
Expertly Crafted - Cured with a time-honored family recipe and smoked over real hardwood, our hams deliver consistent, high-quality results every time.
Perfect for Any Occasion - Whether it’s holidays, backyard BBQs, or family dinners, smoking your ham elevates every table and makes any meal feel special.
Simple to Prepare - Because our hams are fully cooked, the smoking process is approachable for any home cook. Follow our step-by-step guide for professional results with minimal effort.
Shop Kurobuta hams now to start planning your next unforgettable meal.
Read More
Orange and Bourbon Glazed Kurobuta Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Honey Chai Spiced Ham with Whipped Mascarpone Sweet Potatoes
By: Snake River Farms
Guide: How to Cook a Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Cooking Guides
Guide: How to Cook a Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Discover the ultimate guide to Snake River Farms Kurobuta Ham. Learn everything from choosing the perfect ham to cooking methods, ensuring your meal is a showstopper.
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Sheet-Pan Kurobuta Ham and Sweet Potato Hash
By: Snake River Farms
Porchetta Style Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Pineapple-Glazed Kurobuta Bone-in Ham with Bourbon-Cherry Sauce
By: Snake River Farms
Pepper Jelly Bourbon Glaze Ham
By: Snake River Farms
Maple-Bourbon Glazed Ham with Cranberry-Raisin Chutney
By: Snake River Farms
Maple Dijon Kurobuta Ham with Fried Sage
By: Snake River Farms
Leftover Kurobuta Ham & Eggs Benedict with Blender Hollandaise
By: Snake River Farms
Kurobuta Ham with Sweet & Savory Breadcrumbs
By: Snake River Farms
Kurobuta Ham with Pomegranate-Orange Glaze
By: Snake River Farms
Kurobuta Ham and White Bean Soup
By: Snake River Farms
Kurobuta Croque Madame
By: Snake River Farms
Huckleberry Ham
By: Snake River Farms