Grilling A Ham On A Gas Grill: A Step-By-Step Guide

Grilling a ham on a gas grill may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! I’m here to guide you through the process step by step, ensuring that your ham turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled. Whether you’re getting ready for a summer cookout or simply craving the irresistible smoky flavors, learning how to grill a ham on a gas grill is a skill worth mastering. So, grab your apron and tongs, let’s fire up that grill and get started on this mouthwatering adventure!

How to Grill a Ham on a Gas Grill

Grilling a ham on a gas grill is a delicious way to infuse smoky flavors and achieve a mouthwatering caramelized crust. Whether you’re preparing a ham for a special occasion or simply craving a flavorful meal, this guide will walk you through the steps to masterfully grill a ham on your gas grill. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with succulent and juicy ham that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!

Selecting the Perfect Ham

Before diving into the grilling process, it’s essential to choose the perfect ham for your grill. Follow these tips to ensure you select a ham that will result in a mouthwatering masterpiece:

• Ham Type: Look for a fully cooked ham, as grilling raw ham requires longer cooking times and a more complex process.
• Size: Consider the number of people you’ll be serving and choose a ham accordingly. A general rule of thumb is to plan for 1/2 to 3/4 pounds of ham per person.
• Bone-In or Boneless: Both bone-in and boneless hams work well for grilling. Bone-in hams tend to have more flavor and are often easier to carve, while boneless hams offer convenience.
• Flavorings: Decide if you prefer a plain ham or one with added flavors such as honey glazes or seasonings. This choice will affect the grilling process and additional ingredients you may need.

Preparation Steps

Once you have your perfect ham, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Follow these steps to ensure your ham is ready to be beautifully cooked on the gas grill:

1. Thawing the Ham: If you purchased a frozen ham, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator. This process can take up to 24 hours per 5 pounds of ham. Ensure the ham is fully thawed before proceeding.
2. Trimming the Fat: If your ham has excessive fat, trim it down to about 1/4-inch thickness. Leaving a thin layer of fat will help add flavor and prevent the ham from drying out during grilling.
3. Score the Surface: Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern, about 1/4-inch deep. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat and allow the fat to render while grilling.
4. Marinating or Glazing (optional): If you prefer a flavored ham, consider marinating or glazing it. Create a marinade or glaze of your choice, such as a honey and mustard blend, and brush it onto the ham’s surface. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Before firing up the grill, it’s important to ensure it’s properly prepared. Follow these steps to get your gas grill ready to cook your ham:

1. Clean the Grill Grates: Remove any debris or food particles from the grill grates using a grill brush. This will prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your gas grill to medium-low heat. Aim for a temperature of around 325°F (163°C) for indirect cooking. This means only one burner should be lit, with the ham placed on the unlit side of the grill.
3. Add Flavor: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding soaked wood chips or chunks to a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch. Place them directly above the lit burner to allow them to smoke.

Grilling the Ham

Now that your ham is prepared and the grill is ready, it’s time to embark on the grilling process. Follow these steps to ensure your ham is perfectly grilled:

1. Place the Ham on the Grill: Position the scored side of the ham facing up on the unlit side of the grill. The indirect heat will allow for slow, even cooking.
2. Close the Lid: Close the grill lid to trap the heat and smoke, ensuring the ham remains moist and tender.
3. Cooking Time and Temperature: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ham and desired level of doneness. As a general guide, plan for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound at the recommended temperature of 325°F (163°C).
4. Basting: If you’re using a glaze or marinade, baste the ham occasionally throughout the cooking process. This will enhance the flavors and keep the meat moist.
5. Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ham. The desired temperature for a fully cooked ham is around 140°F (60°C).
6. Resting: Once the ham reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender ham.

Serving and Enjoying

Your perfectly grilled ham is now ready to be served and enjoyed! Consider the following tips for an unforgettable dining experience:

• Carving: Carve the ham into thin slices, cutting against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Serving Options: Serve the ham as the centerpiece of a meal, accompanied by sides such as roasted vegetables, scalloped potatoes, or a fresh salad.
• Sauces and Glazes: Offer a variety of dipping sauces and glazes, such as a tangy mustard sauce, pineapple glaze, or cranberry compote, to enhance the flavors of the ham.
• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, they can be used for sandwiches, salads, casseroles, or even omelets. Store the leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

With these detailed steps, you’re now armed with the knowledge to grill a ham on your gas grill like a pro. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual gathering, your perfectly grilled ham will be the star of the show, satisfying everyone’s taste buds. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and elevate your grilling game to new heights with this delicious culinary adventure!

Grilled Ham

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to grill a ham on a gas grill?

Grilling a ham on a gas grill typically takes about 15-20 minutes per pound of ham. It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for fully cooked ham or 160°F (71°C) for raw ham.

Should I preheat the gas grill before grilling a ham?

Yes, it is important to preheat the gas grill before grilling a ham. Preheating the grill ensures that it reaches the desired cooking temperature and helps to sear the surface of the ham, locking in the juices and flavors.

What temperature should the gas grill be set to for grilling a ham?

For grilling a ham, it is recommended to set the gas grill to medium heat, which is around 325-350°F (163-177°C). This allows for even cooking and prevents the ham from drying out.

Should I use indirect heat or direct heat when grilling a ham on a gas grill?

Using indirect heat is ideal for grilling a ham on a gas grill. This means placing the ham on a part of the grill that is not directly over the flames or burners. Indirect heat helps to cook the ham gently and evenly, resulting in a juicy and flavorful outcome.

Do I need to glaze the ham while grilling it on a gas grill?

Glazing the ham is an optional step, but it can add a delicious touch to the final result. If you choose to glaze the ham, apply the glaze during the last 15-20 minutes of grilling, and continue cooking until the glaze is caramelized and the ham is fully cooked.

Can I use wood chips or pellets for added flavor when grilling a ham on a gas grill?

Yes, you can enhance the flavor of the ham by using wood chips or pellets on a gas grill. Soak the wood chips for about 30 minutes, then place them in a foil packet or a smoker box on the grill. This will infuse a smoky flavor into the ham as it cooks.

Final Thoughts

Grilling a ham on a gas grill is a simple and delicious way to prepare this classic dish. Start by preheating the grill and preparing the ham with a flavorful marinade or glaze. Place the ham on the grill, allowing it to cook evenly on all sides. Baste the ham with the marinade or glaze throughout the grilling process to enhance its flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches the desired internal temperature. Once cooked, let the ham rest before slicing and serving. With these steps, you can easily master the art of grilling a ham on a gas grill.