How to Cook Kirkland Ham

Kirkland Signature Spiral Sliced Ham is a bone-in, hickory smoked ham sold at Costco.

It comes fully cooked and pre-sliced using the spiral cut method. A glaze packet is included in every package.

Most people cook this ham for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinner. The spiral slicing makes serving dead simple.

One ham feeds 14-16 people with leftovers. That’s a solid deal for holiday gatherings.

This guide covers three cooking methods: oven, slow cooker, and grill. Total cooking times range from 2 hours to 5 hours depending on your approach.

You’ll need a roasting pan, aluminum foil, and a meat thermometer. That’s it.

Product Details

Product: Kirkland Signature Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham

Type: Fully cooked, bone-in, pre-sliced

Package Size: 8-13 lbs (average 9 lbs), serves 14-16

Price: $2.49/lb at Costco (Updated December 2025)

Storage: Refrigerate at 40 degrees F or below

Calories per Serving: 150 calories per 3 oz

Main Ingredients: Pork, water, sugar, salt, potassium lactate, brown sugar, sodium phosphates, sodium erythorbate, sodium nitrite, natural hickory smoke

Item Number: 13689

Cooking Methods Comparison

Recommended Method: Oven for crispy caramelized glaze and picture-perfect presentation.

Method 1: Oven (Recommended)

The oven method takes about 2 to 2.5 hours for a 9 lb ham. You’ll get a crispy, caramelized exterior with juicy meat throughout.

This produces the best results for holiday dinner. The glaze gets that nice golden brown finish everyone expects.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Ham?

Remove the ham from packaging and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before cooking. This helps it heat evenly.

Instructions:

1. Unwrap the ham and discard all plastic wrap
2. Remove the plastic disk covering the bone
3. Set aside the glaze packet for later
4. Pat the ham dry with paper towels
5. Place flat-side down in a roasting pan

Equipment: Roasting pan, heavy-duty aluminum foil, meat thermometer

Step 2: What Temperature and Time Do You Use?

Low and slow keeps this ham juicy. Cook at 275 degrees F for 12-15 minutes per pound.

A 9 lb ham takes roughly 2 hours at this temperature.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees F
2. Add 1/2 cup water, apple juice, or pineapple juice to the pan bottom
3. Cover ham tightly with aluminum foil
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound

Temperature: 275 degrees F

Time: 12-15 minutes per pound (roughly 2 hours for 9 lb ham)

Step 3: When Do You Add the Glaze?

Apply the glaze during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. This gives it time to caramelize without burning.

Instructions:

1. Mix glaze packet with 3 tablespoons of water
2. Heat mixture in microwave for 60-90 seconds until bubbly
3. Remove foil from ham
4. Brush glaze over ham, getting between the spiral slices
5. Increase oven temperature to 425 degrees F
6. Return ham uncovered for 8-10 minutes

Checkpoint: At the 15-minute mark before target internal temperature

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

The ham is ready when the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees F. Pull it at 137 degrees F because carryover cooking will bring it up.

Instructions:

1. Insert meat thermometer into the thickest part, avoiding the bone
2. Check that internal temperature reads 140 degrees F
3. Remove from oven and let rest 10-15 minutes
4. Slice along the pre-cut spiral lines

Target Temperature: 140 degrees F internal

Visual Indicator: Golden brown glaze with slight caramelization, steaming when sliced

Method 2: Slow Cooker

The slow cooker method frees up your oven for side dishes. It takes 4-5 hours on low but requires almost no attention.

The ham stays incredibly moist this way. You won’t get the crispy glaze, but the meat practically falls off the bone.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Ham for the Crockpot?

Make sure your ham fits in the slow cooker. A 7-9 lb ham works best for a 6-7 quart crockpot.

Instructions:

1. Remove all packaging and plastic pieces
2. Discard the included glaze packet (you’ll make a better one)
3. Place ham flat-side down in the slow cooker
4. Trim the bottom if needed to make it fit

Equipment: 6-7 quart slow cooker, meat thermometer

Step 2: What Temperature and Time Do You Use?

Always cook on low. High heat dries out spiral ham fast.

Instructions:

1. Rub 1 cup brown sugar over the ham
2. Pour 1/2 cup maple syrup and 1 cup pineapple juice over the ham
3. Cover with lid (or heavy-duty foil if lid won’t fit)
4. Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours

Temperature: LOW setting only

Time: 4-5 hours for 7-10 lb ham

Step 3: When Do You Baste the Ham?

Baste twice during the last hour of cooking. This builds flavor.

Instructions:

1. Use a ladle to scoop juices from the bottom
2. Pour juices over the ham, getting between slices
3. Repeat 30 minutes before serving

Checkpoint: At 3.5 hours and 4.5 hours

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Check the internal temperature at the center of the ham. It should read 140 degrees F.

Instructions:

1. Insert thermometer into the thickest section
2. Confirm internal temperature of 140 degrees F
3. Optional: Transfer to baking sheet, sprinkle with brown sugar, and broil 3-4 minutes for caramelized finish
4. Let rest 10 minutes before serving

Target Temperature: 140 degrees F

Visual Indicator: Ham steaming throughout, meat pulling easily from bone

Method 3: Grill or Smoker

Grilling adds an extra layer of smoke flavor to an already smoked ham. Pecan or apple wood work great here.

This method takes about 15-20 minutes per pound at 275-300 degrees F.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Ham for the Grill?

Set up for indirect heat. The ham should never sit directly over flames.

Instructions:

1. Remove all packaging and set aside glaze packet
2. Place ham flat-side down in a disposable aluminum pan (double up for heavy hams)
3. Pour 1 cup of sweet and sour mix, orange juice, or pineapple juice over the ham

Equipment: Grill or smoker, disposable aluminum pan, wood chips (pecan, apple, or hickory), meat thermometer

Step 2: What Temperature and Time Do You Use?

Maintain steady heat between 275-300 degrees F. This is low and slow cooking.

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill for indirect heat at 275-300 degrees F
2. Add wood chips to create smoke
3. Place ham pan on the cool side of the grill
4. Close lid and cook for 15-20 minutes per pound

Temperature: 275-300 degrees F

Time: 15-20 minutes per pound

Step 3: When Do You Apply the Glaze?

Wait until the last 20 minutes of cooking. Adding glaze too early causes burning.

Instructions:

1. Prepare glaze by mixing packet with water or make your own brown sugar glaze
2. Brush glaze between each slice during the last 20 minutes
3. Close lid and let glaze set

Checkpoint: 20 minutes before reaching 140 degrees F internal

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Same rule as oven cooking. Internal temperature of 140 degrees F means you’re good.

Instructions:

1. Check internal temperature in thickest part
2. Remove when thermometer reads 140 degrees F
3. Let rest 15-20 minutes before carving

Target Temperature: 140 degrees F

Visual Indicator: Glossy caramelized glaze, slight char marks on edges

Safety and Quality Indicators

Food Safety

• Internal Temperature: 140 degrees F minimum (ham is already fully cooked)
• Steam Check: Ham should steam when sliced open
• Thawing: Thaw in refrigerator for 24-48 hours if frozen (most are sold refrigerated, not frozen)

Quality Indicators (Done Properly)

• Color: Deep pink interior with golden brown glaze exterior
• Texture: Moist and tender, not dry or rubbery
• Temperature: Hot throughout, 140 degrees F at center
• Appearance: Glaze appears shiny and slightly caramelized

Signs of Overcooking

• Meat appears dry and stringy around edges
• Slices curl up and shrink significantly
• Ham fat becomes hard and chewy instead of tender
• Glaze looks burnt rather than caramelized

Serving Suggestions

Portion Size: 6 oz per person for bone-in ham (about 3/4 lb raw weight per person), 14-16 servings per package

Serving Ideas

• Slice and serve on a platter with pineapple rings and maraschino cherries
• Use leftover slices for ham and cheese sliders the next day
• Dice for ham and bean soup using the bone
• Add to breakfast hash with Costco potatoes

Pairing Recommendations

• Costco mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole
• Roasted green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
• Costco mac and cheese for the kids
• Fresh rolls or Costco garlic bread
• Cranberry sauce to balance the saltiness

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in airtight container with cooking juices
• Consume within 3-5 days
• Freeze in freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months

Reheating Instructions

• Microwave: 1-2 minutes per portion, cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture
• Oven: Wrap slices in foil, heat at 275 degrees F for 10 minutes
• Stovetop: Warm in skillet with a splash of water or broth over medium heat
• Target Temperature: 165 degrees F for reheated leftovers

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: Ham is too dry

Cause: Cooked at too high a temperature or left uncovered too long

Solution: Always cook low and slow at 275 degrees F. Keep ham covered with foil until the last 15 minutes. Add liquid to the bottom of the pan.

Issue: Ham is still cold in the center

Cause: Not enough cooking time or ham was too cold when it went in

Solution: Let ham sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to verify 140 degrees F throughout. Rotate ham halfway through cooking if needed.

Issue: Glaze burned instead of caramelized

Cause: Glaze applied too early or oven temperature too high during glazing

Solution: Apply glaze only during the last 15-20 minutes. Watch the ham closely at 425 degrees F. Remove immediately when glaze looks shiny and golden.

Issue: Ham tastes too salty

Cause: All ham is cured with salt. Some batches vary.

Solution: Pair with sweeter side dishes like sweet potato casserole. Reduce salt in accompanying dishes. Serve with plenty of water or lemonade.

Product Variations and Related Items

Similar Costco Products

• Kirkland Signature Applewood Smoked Master Carve Ham – Boneless, $3.99/lb, 3-5 lbs average. Easier to slice but less flavor from the bone.
• Costco ham – Various options available seasonally
• Costco pork – Other pork options for different occasions

Cooking Time Adjustments

Smaller hams (7-8 lbs) need less time. Check temperature starting at 1.5 hours for oven method.

Larger hams (11-13 lbs) may need up to 3 hours. Start checking at 2 hours and add time as needed.

Altitude affects cooking time too. At elevations above 5,000 feet, expect an extra 30-60 minutes.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Choose Oven When:

• You want the crispiest caramelized glaze
• Presentation matters for your holiday dinner
• You have 2-3 hours and oven space available

Choose Slow Cooker When:

• You need the oven for Costco stuffed peppers, lasagna, or other dishes
• You want hands-off cooking while you’re at church or running errands
• Maximum moisture is your priority over crispy glaze

Choose Grill When:

• You want extra smoky flavor
• Cooking outdoors suits the weather and occasion
• You enjoy tending the grill for 2-3 hours

Time Comparison

Oven (2-2.5 hours) < Grill (2.5-3 hours) < Slow Cooker (4-5 hours)

Texture Ranking

Oven (crispiest glaze) > Grill (smoky with some caramelization) > Slow Cooker (most tender, no crispy exterior)

FAQ on How To Cook Kirkland Ham

What temperature do you cook Kirkland spiral ham?

Cook Kirkland Signature spiral ham at 275 degrees F for the main cooking time.

This low and slow approach keeps the meat juicy. Increase to 425 degrees F only during the last 10 minutes when applying the glaze for caramelization.

How long does it take to cook a Kirkland ham?

Plan for 12-15 minutes per pound at 275 degrees F.

A 9 lb ham takes roughly 2 hours. Always use a meat thermometer rather than relying on time alone. The internal temperature should reach 140 degrees F.

Do you need to cook Kirkland ham or is it ready to eat?

Kirkland ham is fully cooked and safe to eat cold straight from the package.

Heating it brings out better flavor and texture. Most people warm it for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter to serve it at its best.

Should you cover Kirkland ham with foil when baking?

Yes. Cover the ham tightly with aluminum foil for most of the cooking time.

This traps steam and prevents the spiral slices from drying out. Remove the foil only during the last 15 minutes when you brush on the glaze.

How do you use the glaze packet that comes with Kirkland ham?

Mix the glaze packet with 3 tablespoons of water.

Heat in microwave for 60-90 seconds until bubbly. Brush generously over the ham, getting between the spiral slices. The brown sugar glaze caramelizes beautifully at high heat.

Can you cook Kirkland spiral ham in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Place the ham flat-side down in a 6-7 quart crockpot.

Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours. Add brown sugar, maple syrup, and pineapple juice for a homemade glaze. This method frees up oven space for sides like stuffed salmon.

How do you keep Kirkland ham from drying out?

Three things matter most. Cook at low temperature (275 degrees F). Keep it covered with foil. Add liquid to the roasting pan.

Apple juice, pineapple juice, or water works. Basting occasionally helps too.

How many people does a Kirkland ham feed?

A typical 9 lb Kirkland ham serves 14-16 people.

Plan for about 6 ounces of cooked ham per person. Buy a bit extra if you want leftovers for sandwiches, soup, or breakfast hash the next day.

How do you store and reheat leftover Kirkland ham?

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in an airtight container. They last 3-5 days in the fridge.

Reheat slices wrapped in foil at 275 degrees F for 10 minutes. Microwave works too with a damp paper towel covering.

What sides go best with Kirkland spiral ham?

Classic pairings include roasted asparagus, sweet potato casserole, and Costco frozen vegetables.

The ham’s saltiness pairs well with sweeter sides. Try Costco croissants or fresh rolls. Cranberry sauce balances the flavor nicely.

Conclusion

Now you know how to cook Kirkland ham using three different methods. Pick the one that fits your schedule and kitchen setup.

The oven method delivers that crispy caramelized glaze everyone expects at holiday dinner. Slow cooker keeps things hands-off. Grill adds extra smoke flavor.

Always use a meat thermometer. Pull the ham when it hits 140 degrees F internal temperature.

Let it rest before carving. Your bone-in spiral ham will stay juicy and tender every time.